“Amidst the bustling streets of Hyderabad, where the aroma of spices dances on the air and the sizzle of grills serenades the senses, street food places stand as vibrant havens of culinary delight, inviting all to indulge in the rich tapestry of flavors that define the city’s gastronomic soul.”
1. Gokul Chaat
Situated on Koti Main Road in Abids, Gokul Chaat is a beloved spot for street food aficionados seeking the quintessential flavors of Dabeli. This humble eatery offers a delightful rendition of the Gujarati Street food delicacy, with its spicy potato filling, crunchy peanuts, and tangy chutneys sandwiched between soft buns. Gokul Chaat’s Dabeli is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Must Tries:
Dabeli – a spicy potato mixture with peanuts, sev, and chutneys, served in a bun.
Location: Gokul Chaat, Koti Main Road, Abids.
Price range: ₹50 – ₹100 per serving.
2. Maharaja Chaat
Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Madhapur, Maharaja Chaat is a popular haunt for those craving the zesty burst of flavors found in Pani Puri or Golgappa. This street food stall exudes the charm of traditional Indian street food joints, offering crispy puris filled with a spicy-tangy flavored water, along with mashed potatoes and tangy chutneys. Maharaja Chaat’s Pani Puri is a delightful treat for the taste buds, providing a refreshing and satisfying snacking experience.
Must Tries:
Pani Puri – crispy hollow puris filled with spicy-tangy flavored water and mashed potatoes.
Location: Maharaja Chaat, Madhapur, and various other street food stalls across the city.
Price range: ₹20 – ₹50 per plate.
3. Shah Ghouse Cafe and Pista House
These establishments, located in Tolichowki and Charminar respectively, are renowned for their delectable Hyderabadi Haleem. During the Ramadan season, they draw crowds of eager patrons looking to savor the rich and hearty flavors of this iconic dish. Hyderabadi Haleem is a slow-cooked stew made with minced meat, lentils, and wheat, infused with aromatic spices, and garnished with fried onions and fresh herbs. Shah Ghouse Cafe and Pista House are synonymous with Haleem in Hyderabad, offering a culinary experience that is both comforting and indulgent.
Must Tries:
Hyderabadi Haleem – a thick stew made with minced meat, lentils, and wheat, cooked with aromatic spices.
Location: Multiple outlets, one popular one is at Shah Ghouse Cafe, Tolichowki, and Pista House, Charminar.
Price range: ₹100 – ₹200 per serving during the Haleem season (Ramadan), otherwise available seasonally.
4. Govind Ki Bandi
Situated near Charminar, Govind Ki Bandi is famous for its Mirchi Bajji, a spicy street food delicacy that packs a flavorful punch. The large green chilies are stuffed with a spicy mixture, coated in chickpea flour batter, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. Served piping hot with a side of tangy tamarind chutney, Govind Ki Bandi’s Mirchi Bajji is a popular snack among locals and tourists exploring the bustling streets of Old Hyderabad.
Must Tries:
Mirchi Bajji – large green chilies stuffed with a spicy mixture, coated in chickpea flour batter, and deep-fried.
Location: Govind Ki Bandi, near Charminar.
Price range: ₹20 – ₹50 for a plate.
5. Ram Ki Bandi
Ram Ki Bandi is a legendary street food stall located in the bustling area of Nampally, near Niloufer Hospital. This humble food stall has garnered a cult following for its iconic Butter Dosa. The dosa here is not just any dosa; it’s a gastronomic delight that has captured the hearts and taste buds of Hyderabadis for decades.
What sets Ram Ki Bandi apart is its unique preparation method and generous use of butter. The dosa is cooked to perfection on a hot griddle until it achieves a crisp golden-brown exterior while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Before serving, a generous amount of butter is slathered on top, adding richness and flavor to every bite.
Must Tries:
Butter Dosa, Cheese Dosa, Pav Bhaji Dosa
Location: Nampally, near Niloufer Hospital
Price range: ₹30 – ₹100 per dish
