Indore, for eons, has been known as the land of the khavvaiyyas and gavvaiyyas (meaning foodies and musicians). This cultural hub, situated in the center of India, is a treasure island for varieties of food. There is something for every palate. Whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian. Although predominantly vegetarian food exists in Indore, it is something that even non-vegetarians polish off with delight.
Food fit for kings and queens, dipped and drenched in pure clarified butter or ghee, this meal is not for the faint of heart. So if you are on a diet forget about these places, these are not for you. But if you are someone who wholeheartedly enjoys what lands on your palate, indulge your taste buds right here in Indore.
Sarafa Market: Sarafa in Hindi means jewelery market. You may be wondering what jewelry has to do with food. Let me explain. Every day after sunset, the jewelry market closes and gives way to foodie paradise. As you enter the market, you are greeted by the glorious breath of hot gulab jamuns and ushered into a world of pani pooris, makke ka kees and chhole tikiya. The hot jalebis tantalizes your taste buds as they burn the tips of your tongues and the vaults of your palate with delight. It is best to visit this place in large groups to be able to taste a little of everything.
Vijay Chat House in Khajoori Bazaar – Sarafa junction
While in Indore, do as the Indoris do. Visit Vijay Chat House for hot crispy aloo kachoris and delicious shikanji (which is a kind of dried fruit and curd smoothie).
Joshi wade wale
Although it is a store in Sarafa Market, the uniqueness of this store makes it worth a special mention. You will be treated to a spontaneous magic trick at the behest of the head chef, who will affectionately call you his Maharajah!
56 Dukaan
56 Dukaan or Chhappan Dukaan as it is popularly known, translated into English means 56 stores. This is a famous area of Indore that is part of a group of 56 stores, where you will find all the culinary delights of the world. Whether Indian or Continental, you will find it here. This is another place to be visited in large groups or it will take you 56 days to taste every offering at this ambrosia food spot.
Street food
There are many small shops lining the streets serving what they proudly proclaim as Fariyali Khichadi. It is a must in Indore. Other typically Malwa preparations that cannot be missing in Indore are the famous Daal-Baafle and Poha Jalebi.
coffee shops
Mr. Beans and Buddy’s Cafe are the best places to have a coffee in Indore. Another most visited cafe is Café Coffee Day.
Indore Dewas Road
Freshly cooked corn dogs are available on Indore-Dewas Road. Fabulously cooked and seasoned, they are a delight to your palate.
Nakhrali Dhaani Rau
Enjoy authentic Marwari food with a variety of more than 30 to 50 preparations served on each plate. While you’re at it, you can enjoy traditional Rajasthani folk songs, dances, puppet shows, magic shows, snake charmers and more. Have henna applied to your hands or write your name on a grain of rice. Enjoy camel, horse and ox cart rides, as you prefer. There are games for all ages, making this visit a memorable one.
Ice Cream at Monica Galaxy
Desserts are ideally eaten at Monica Galaxy, located in South Tukoganj Indore. A wide range of ice creams is available to refresh palates that have been swept away by spicy food.
by Parshwanath
Right next to Monica Galaxy is Parshwanath’s Paan Bhandar. If you are in Indore and you missed Magai’s betel leaf bread then you missed something really good. The betel leaf is so fresh it practically melts in your mouth. It is actually parsimonious, since it is really very small. Even though it is served as a couplet assembled with a toothpick, it just gloriously melts in your mouth torturing your senses with pleasure. It is every Indori’s idea of a grand finale to a delicious feast.