A Food Lover’s Guide to Pune: Top 10 Must-Try Dishes

Pune, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, also boasts a dynamic food scene that blends traditional Maharashtrian flavors with a modern culinary twist. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Pune through its diverse range of dishes is a treat for any food lover. From street food to fine dining, there is something for every palate in this bustling city.

Here’s a guide to the top 10 must-try dishes in Pune, along with recommendations for where you can savor these culinary delights:

1. Misal Pav

• What it is: Misal Pav is a spicy, flavorful dish made with a mixture of sprouted beans, topped with crunchy sev, and served with a pav (bread roll). It’s typically enjoyed with a bowl of yogurt or buttermilk to balance the heat.

• Where to Try:

  • Shree Krishna Vadapav (Shivaji Nagar): Known for serving one of the best misal pavs in the city.

  • Bedekar Tea House (Narayan Peth): A legendary spot for authentic misal pav with a kick of spice.

2. Vada Pav

• What it is: The quintessential Pune street food, vada pav consists of a spiced potato fritter (vada) served in a pav (bread roll), often accompanied by chutneys and fried green chilies.

• Where to Try:

  • Anand Stall (Vishrantiwadi): Famous for its crispy vada pav, Anand is a popular choice for foodies.

  • Ashok Vadapav (Dhole Patil Road): Another iconic joint known for its authentic and delicious vada pav.

3. Bhakri with Pithla

• What it is: A traditional Maharashtrian dish, Bhakri is a thick flatbread made from jowar or bajra flour, often served with Pithla – a spiced gram flour curry.

• Where to Try:

  • Raja’s Bhakri (Kothrud): This place serves an authentic, rustic version of Bhakri with a generous helping of Pithla.

  • Sukanta Restaurant (Kothrud): Famous for its Maharashtrian thali, including Bhakri and Pithla.

4. Sabudana Khichdi

• What it is: A favorite during fasting periods, Sabudana Khichdi is made from soaked tapioca pearls, stir-fried with peanuts, potatoes, and spices. It’s a wholesome and satisfying snack.

• Where to Try:

  • Joshi Wadewale (Deccan Gymkhana): A great place to try authentic Sabudana Khichdi along with other local snacks.

  • Vaishali (Vishrantiwadi): Known for its delectable sabudana khichdi that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.

5. Bhel Puri

• What it is: A savory snack made from puffed rice, sev, tangy tamarind chutney, and a mix of fresh vegetables, Bhel Puri is a crunchy and flavorful snack enjoyed by all.

• Where to Try:

  • Aaram Vada Pav (Near Pune Station): A beloved spot for bhel puri lovers and other street snacks.

  • Sukanta Restaurant (Kothrud): Offers some of the best Bhel Puri in town.

6. Puran Poli

• What it is: A traditional Maharashtrian sweet flatbread stuffed with a mixture of jaggery and yellow split peas. It’s served hot with a dollop of ghee, making for a delicious and fulfilling dish.

• Where to Try:

  • Shivaji Maharaj Puran Poli (Shivaji Nagar): Famous for its freshly made puran poli, especially during festivals.

  • Jambhekar's (Shivaji Nagar): Offers an excellent version of this festive dish.

7. Kheema Pav

• What it is: A rich and spicy minced meat dish served with pav. It’s a favorite among non-vegetarian lovers and is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch.

• Where to Try:

  • Zamu’s Hotel (Camp): One of the most famous spots for Kheema Pav in Pune.

  • Vishnuji’s (Shivaji Nagar): Known for its perfectly spiced kheema served with soft pav.

8. Poha

• What it is: Poha is a traditional breakfast dish made with flattened rice, peanuts, curry leaves, and mustard seeds. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish often served with a side of lemon and chutney.

• Where to Try:

  • Kailash Tea House (Vishrantiwadi): Offers a variety of breakfast dishes, with their poha being especially popular.

  • Vaishali (Vishrantiwadi): Known for its great poha and a variety of other Maharashtrian snacks.

9. Malvani Fish Curry

• What it is: A coastal dish from the Konkan region, Malvani Fish Curry is made with fresh fish and a rich blend of coconut, tamarind, and malvani spices. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

• Where to Try:

  • Mochi (Sadashiv Peth): Known for serving delicious seafood, especially Malvani Fish Curry.

  • The Fish Market (Camp): Offers a range of fresh fish preparations, including the classic Malvani curry.

10. Tandoori Dishes

• What it is: A variety of meats and breads cooked in a tandoor, a traditional clay oven. These dishes are marinated with aromatic spices and cooked to perfection.

• Where to Try:

  • Bashir’s (Camp): Famous for its delectable tandoori kebabs and naan.

  • The Great Kabab Factory (Viman Nagar): A fine dining place for exceptional tandoori kebabs and other grilled delicacies.

Conclusion

Pune is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of flavors ranging from street food to fine dining. Whether you’re looking to indulge in traditional Maharashtrian dishes or explore the variety of options Pune has to offer, this city has something for everyone. So next time you’re in Pune, make sure to try these top 10 must-try dishes to get a taste of the city's vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a street food stall or enjoying a meal at a fine dining restaurant, these dishes will surely leave you craving for more!

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