Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Chandīgarh, India
1. Chole Bhature
A popular North Indian dish consisting of spiced chickpeas (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). Try it at Kundan Chhole Bhature near Sector 17.
- Spiciness Level: Can be customized to your preference
- Portion Size: Large enough for a filling meal
- Availability: Found throughout Chandigarh but Kundan is famous for it
2. Sarson Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti
A Punjabi dish made of mustard greens (sarson ka saag) served with corn flatbread (makki ki roti). Experience it at the iconic Kesar Da Dhaba in village Paurian.
- Authenticity: Prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
- Cultural Significance: Traditionally enjoyed during winter months in Punjab
- Pairing with Lassi: Enjoy it with a side of fresh lassi for a complete experience
3. Amritsari Fish
Crispy fried fish marinated in spices, originating from Amritsar. Try it at Nankana Sweets & Restaurant in Sector 15.
- Taste: The perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors
- Texture: Crunchy exterior with tender, flaky fish inside
- Presentation: Served on a bed of fresh salad and accompanied by lemon wedges
4. Butter Chicken
A creamy, rich North Indian dish made with chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce. Visit Maurya Sheraton Hotel for an authentic experience.
- Creaminess: The creamy, velvety texture is to die for
- Taste: A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Presentation: Served on a bed of basmati rice with a side of naan
5. Tandoori Chicken
Marinated chicken pieces cooked in a clay oven. Taste it at Bakers Café, located in Sector 22.
- Flavor Profile: Tangy yogurt marinade and smoky flavor from the tandoor
- Texture: Juicy, tender, and slightly charred exterior
- Pairing with Raita: Enhances the flavors of the dish when paired with raita
6. Dahi Bhalle
Deep-fried lentil balls served in yogurt gravy. Try it at the famous Gulab Singh Wala in Sector 23.
- Coolness Level: A refreshing dish, perfect for hot summer days
- Texture: Soft lentil balls and creamy yogurt gravy
- Taste: Sweet, savory, and tangy flavors coming together harmoniously
7. Chaat
A popular street food consisting of various ingredients like potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, chutneys, and sev. Try it at the famous Chaat Bazaar in Sector 17.
- Variety: A wide variety of chaats to choose from
- Flavor Profile: Tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors in every bite
- Portion Size: Perfect for sharing or as a snack
8. Lassi
A traditional yogurt-based drink served sweet or salty. Enjoy it at Kesar Da Dhaba in village Paurian.
- Refreshing Quality: Ideal for cooling down during hot summer days
- Taste: Sweet, salty or a mix of both, depending on your preference
- Pairing with Meals: Pairs well with many North Indian dishes
9. Paratha
Flaky, layered flatbread often served with curry. Try it at Kake Di Hatti in Sector 23.
- Variety: Available in a range of flavors like aloo, gobi, makki, and more
- Texture: Crispy exterior with soft, buttery layers inside
- Pairing with Curry: Perfectly complements most North Indian curries
10. Kulcha
A soft, leavened bread stuffed with ingredients like potatoes and onions. Try it at Bakers Café in Sector 22.
- Texture: Soft, fluffy interior with a slightly crispy exterior
- Stuffing Variety: Available in various stuffings like paneer, aloo, and more
- Pairing with Butter: Enjoy it with a generous spread of butter for an extra indulgent experience
11. Rajma Chawal
A hearty dish made of kidney beans (rajma) served with basmati rice (chawal). Try it at the iconic KFC outlet in Sector 35.
- Nutritional Value: Rich in protein and fiber
- Taste: A comforting blend of spices and flavors
- Pairing with Ghee: Add a spoonful of ghee for an authentic taste
12. Gujia
A sweet dumpling filled with khoya (solidified milk fat) and dry fruits. Try it during the festival of Holi at various sweet shops in Chandigarh.
- Taste: Sweet, crunchy, and flavorful
- Traditional Significance: Symbolizes the victory of good over evil during Holi celebrations
- Pairing with Rabdi: Enjoy it dipped in rabdi for an extra indulgent treat
13. Gulab Jamun
Round, syrup-soaked balls made of khoya (solidified milk fat). Try it at the famous Gulab Singh Wala in Sector 23.
- Taste: Sweet, soft, and delicious
- Traditional Significance: Popular dessert enjoyed in many Indian households
- Pairing with Rabdi: Enhances the flavor when served with rabdi
14. Laddoo
A round, sweet ball made of flour, sugar, and various ingredients like semolina, coconut, or sesame seeds. Try it at the famous Gulab Singh Wala in Sector 23.
- Taste: Sweet, aromatic, and flavorful
- Variety: Available in various flavors like besan, coconut, and more
- Portion Size: Perfect for taking home as a treat or gift
15. Nimbu Pani
A traditional lemonade made with fresh lemons, water, sugar, and mint. Try it at the famous Chaat Bazaar in Sector 17.
- Refreshing Quality: Ideal for cooling down during hot summer days
- Taste: Tangy, sweet, and refreshing
- Pairing with Meals: Pairs well with many North Indian dishes as a palate cleanser