7 Local Food of Pune That is Just WOW

The city of Pune is famous for its weather and hills, as well as for its IT parks and reputed educational institutions. But its food is really what snags first place. Despite its modernization and rapid development, Pune’s culinary scene has retained that same old taste and flavour. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, don’t forget to try the following delicacies, each of which is a hallmark of Pune’s food culture.

* Bakarwadi

This is a savoury roll that is spiced and deep-fried, and although you’ll find it at every corner shop in Pune, no one does it better than Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale. Visitors take bakarwadi home by the kilo here because you won’t find it anywhere else.

* Amti

Amti is the staple dal curry (lentil soup) of Maharashtra and is made with tuvar or pigeon pea. What makes Pune’s amti different is a mix of spices called goda masala: a mix of red dried chillies, khus-khus (poppy seeds), dagadiphool or stone flower and finely shredded dried coconut. Even though it’s an ordinary dish, the presence of goda masala makes Pune’s amti delectable and unique.

* Peanut Chutney

Another delicacy that is not found anywhere else is peanut chutney. Made with peanuts, garlic, dried red chilli powder and a hint of jaggery, shengdanyachi chatni, as it is referred to locally, comes in 100-gram packs and makes an excellent accompaniment to spice up any meal. Stack up on this lip-smacking chutney to bring back home and distribute to friends and family.

* Samosas with Chutney

If you don’t mind your diet going for a toss, bite into some hot and spicy samosas. Light and crisp, they are just perfect to munch on. They are great for taking back home, for sharing with friends and enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. These tasty delights can be had at Anarse Samosewale and Tilak Hotel and are totally budget friendly too.

* Sabudana Khichdi

Glutinous and sticky, but full of lip-smacking flavour, sabudana khichadi, found in nameless roadside eateries in Pune, is simply unbeatable. Made from tapioca pearls or sabudana, it is garnished with crushed roasted peanuts and a wedge of lemon. This dish, though simple, has the capacity to transport you to foodie heaven.

* Shrewsbury Biscuits

Kayani Bakery has been in Pune for ages, but no matter how old it gets, the demand for their Shrewsbury biscuits refuses to dwindle. There is always a queue and you may not always be lucky, but if you are, make sure to pack them in a sturdy box to take back home.

* Pastries

If you are looking to indulge, don’t forget to try the pastries at Pune’s Conrad Hotel. They aren’t the cheapest, but definitely some of the best pastries you will find anywhere the city. Conrad also makes delectable puddings and bread. For more pastries, check out Sugar Box for their cappuccino and a pastry du jour.