Jabalpur, a city in the state of Madhya Pradesh, has a fascinating past and culture. While there are many top attractions to visit around, like the Rani Durgavati Museum inside the old Dumna Nature Reserve, the tall marble rocks at Bhedaghat, the loud Narmada River, and more, Jabalpur eateries and restaurants serve up tasty regional dishes that pack a kick!
From spicy curries to crunchy snacks, there's food here that can make every mouth happy. If you are visiting the city, you might want to try the sweet khoye ki jalebi, soy chaap patties, or sabudana khichdi with lentils and rice. Don't miss the crispy fried chilli bhajias, either. Local dishes use lots of spices, like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. They also feature local ingredients like corn, wheat, and lentils. With various culinary influences, Jabalpur's food has something to offer everyone!
For a real taste, be sure to try these six iconic dishes on your next visit to Jabalpur.
Khoya Jalebi Image Credit: Freepik
Jabalpur is famous for the khoya jalebi, a sweet treat that is made with thick, creamy milk solids that are prepared and deep-fried into crunchy coils. They are dunked into a sugary syrup flavoured with fragrant rosewater. No trip to Jabalpur can be complete without trying this local favourite.
Restaurant Recommendations: Gopal Ji, Prestige Town, South Civil Lines, Jabalpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹100–200, approx.
Chakki Ki Shaak Image Credit: Freepik
Chakki ki shaak is made from steamed wheat dough balls dipped and cooked in a spicy, thick gravy. This dish from Jabalpur has spices that give it a lot of flavour. When you eat it with rice, it makes a filling, comforting meal. With each bite, you get a burst of flavour. This tasty dish will make you happy if you're craving something delicious.
Restaurant Recommendations: Jharokha Restaurant, Napier Town, Jabalpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx.
Khopra Pak Image Credit: Freepik
This sweet treat from Jabalpur is a scrumptious coconut barfi flavoured with cardamom and saffron. Its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture comes from the mawa, or thickened milk. Dry fruit shavings of cashew and almonds are sprinkled on top for extra flavour and crunch. With its mix of flavors and textures, this famous barfi is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Restaurant Recommendations: Dwarka Sweets, Wright Town, Jabalpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Bhutte Ki Kees
Image Credit: Freepik
The famous dish from Jabalpur, made with corn, milk, spices, and a little chilli, is the dish for all foodies. This porridge-like street food dish is a source of comfort for many in the city. The spices make it zingy. This veggie meal shows how sweet corn can taste in a new way. It's comforting to eat.
Restaurant Recommendations: Badkul Restaurant, Vijay Nagar, Jabalpur,
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹100–250 approx
Seekh Kebabs
The mutton mince seekh kebabs are marinated and grilled, making them a perfect snack or appetiser when served with a yummy green chutney. This famous dish from Jabalpur is known for its crispy exterior and succulent interior. Each bite mixes textures and spices in the best way and you might enjoy how the meat melts in your mouth.
Restaurant Recommendations: Sahebs Food Junction, Near Russell Chowk, Jabalpur
Type: Non-Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Gakkar Bharta Image Credit: Freepik
Gakkar Bharta is a dish that is similar to the Bihari 'litti-chokha', which consists of deep-fried wheat dough balls that are paired with a gravy made from mashed eggplants. The ghee-fried litti is called gakkar and the roasted eggplant mash is called bharta, and people come from all around the region just to savour them fresh from the street vendors in Bhedaghat and Gwarighat. the dish is served with some pickles, chutney for dipping, and a cucumber-onion salad!
Restaurant Recommendations: Agrawal Gakkar Bharta And Bhojnalay, Gwarighat, Jabalpur
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400 approx