When you visit Amritsar, you realise that food is more than a necessity there. It’s a celebration of life, culture and tradition. From the crisp kulchas and creamy lassis to the rich dhaba-style feasts, every meal is packed with flavours. Add to that the city’s vibrant street snacks and desserts, and you have a culinary experience unlike any other. This guide is your ultimate roadmap to eating your way through Amritsar, one iconic dish at a time. Let your taste buds lead the way.
Begin your culinary journey with a hearty breakfast known for its robust flavours and wholesome plates. Here’s a selection of some of our favourite spots serving puris and the famous Amritsari kulchas.
Kanha Sweets: Wake up to the mouthwatering aroma of freshly fried puris paired with tangy launji, a sweet-and-sour chutney that perfectly complements the aloo and methi dana sabzi. This iconic spot is a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Before you leave, stock up on their ghee-packed besan ke ladoo and pinni that make for excellent gifts or on-the-go treats.
No visit to Amritsar is complete without savouring its signature kulchas. Perfectly crispy with a golden-brown hue, they are stuffed with alu, paneer, pyaaz fillings. Served with dollops of butter paired with chutneys and seasonal pickles, this is the perfect way to start your day. Here are three standout places to try:
No Punjabi breakfast is complete without a tall glass of creamy lassi. Here are our favourite spots.
Amritsar’s dhabas are the heart of its food culture, offering authentic flavours and a glimpse into the region’s culinary soul. These iconic dhabas are cultural landmarks showcasing the passion, skill, and heart behind Punjabi food with timeless recipes passed down through generations.
Kesar Da Dhaba: Step into history at this iconic vegetarian dhaba, a cornerstone of Amritsar’s culinary legacy. Known for its unmatched dal makhani—slow-cooked to perfection—and creamy palak paneer, every dish here is bursting with flavours. End your meal with their signature phirni.
Bheera Tandoori Chicken: If you’re craving smoky, succulent chicken straight out of the tandoor, this is the place to be. Bheera Tandoori Chicken is renowned for its perfectly spiced marinades that infuse every bite with flavour. Pair it with some buttery naan for a meal that defines comfort food.
Makhan Fish & Chicken Corner: The legendary Amritsari fish fry reigns supreme here. Known for its golden, crispy coating and tender, flaky fish inside, this dish is an all-time favourite. Their chicken dishes are equally exceptional, making it a one-stop shop for meat lovers.
Surjit Tandoori Chicken: A hotspot for juicy, well-marinated tandoori chicken, Surjit’s mastery of the tandoor is unmatched. The vibrant spices and smoky aroma ensure a dining experience that will make you come back for more.
Aman Fish: Specialising in fish fry and tandoori dishes, Aman Fish is a must-visit. Their perfectly fried fish strikes the right balance of crispiness and tenderness, making it an indulgence worth every bite.
Prakash Meat: For meat lovers, Prakash Meat is nothing short of a culinary pilgrimage. Their tikkas and chaap are marinated with bold spices and grilled to perfection, offering a burst of flavour that embodies the spirit of Punjabi cuisine.
(Right Image) Credits: IndiaMART
Amritsar’s streets are filled shops catering to every craving. From crispy chaats to tangy treats, here are some must-try options to satisfy your snack-time hunger.
Bun Tikki & Chaat from Brijwasi Chaat: At this lively snack hub, indulge in crispy, golden-brown tikkis served with or without the bun but always with a side of flavourful chutneys. Their chaats will feel like a party in your mouth with their flavours and textures, combining crunch, spice, and sweetness in every bite. With its buzzing atmosphere, Brijwasi Chaat is the perfect spot for a quick snack fix.
Moong Dal Laddu: For a simple yet satisfying street-side snack, head to the roadside vendor outside the mall near MK Hotel, Ranjit Avenue. These savoury moong dal laddus are fried to perfection, delivering a crispy exterior with a soft, flavourful centre. Enjoy them fresh and hot for a snack that’s both hearty and delicious.
Aam Papad & Jeera Goli from Ram Lubhaya & Sons: A trip to Ram Lubhaya & Sons is like stepping into a treasure trove of tangy and sweet delights. Their aam papad, made from sun-dried mango pulp, offers a burst of fruity sweetness, while their jeera goli, technically a spicy-sweet digestive candy, is perfect for snacking on the go. These treats are not just delicious but also make excellent souvenirs to take home for friends and family.
Each bite, from the creamy phirni to the decadent rasmalai, promises a taste of tradition and the warmth of Punjabi hospitality. Don’t leave Amritsar without sampling these iconic treats.
Bansal Sweets: Step into a sweet lover’s paradise at Bansal Sweets, renowned for its decadent offerings. Their rasmalai, soaked in fragrant milk and garnished with pistachios, is a celebration of delicate flavours. The crisp, flaky patisa (yes, the same that gets memed on Diwali) delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite. And don’t miss their motichoor laddus, soft, melt-in-your-mouth orbs of sweetness that are perfect for any occasion.
Phirni from Ahuja Milk Bhandar: End your meal on a classic note with phirni, a creamy rice pudding served in traditional earthen bowls. Ahuja Milk Bhandar has mastered the art of this delicacy, blending the richness of milk with the subtle aroma of cardamom and saffron. The clay pots add a rustic touch and enhance the dessert’s flavour, making it a memorable treat.
Fruit Cream from Durga: For a lighter, refreshing twist on dessert, head to Durga for their famed fruit cream. This unique treat is a delightful blend of sweetened cream and a medley of fresh, seasonal fruits. With its light texture and vibrant flavours, it’s a perfect palate cleanser or midday indulgence.
Yes, we need a separate section for the ones you get in Amritsar. For the lovers of warm, syrup-soaked goodness, these classics are unmissable:
Don’t just dream about Amritsar’s delicious food. Save this guide, pack your bags, and make it a reality.