Discovering Pune's Street Food Delights: Top 10 Must-Try Dishes

Pune is a food lover's paradise, offering a vibrant street food scene with a delightful mix of spicy, tangy, and savory dishes. Must-try street foods include Misal Pav, Vada Pav, Pithla Bhakri, Bhakarwadi, Dabeli, Pav Bhaji, Kheema Pav, and Mastani. These dishes are available at various locations throughout the city, such as Bedekar Misal, Garden Vada Pav Centre, Shree Uphar Gruha, and Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale.

Pune, known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. With its vibrant street food scene, the city offers a delightful mix of spicy, tangy, and savory dishes that cater to every palate. In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic street foods in Pune that are worth trying.

1. Misal Pav (1)
Misal Pav is one of Pune's most beloved dishes. This spicy sprouted lentil curry (misal) is topped with crunchy farsan, chopped onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lime, and served with soft pav (bread rolls). The spicy and flavorful dish is best enjoyed at popular spots like Bedekar Misal, Katakirr Misal, and Ramnath Misal.

2. Vada Pav (1)
Often referred to as the Indian burger, Vada Pav is a staple street food in Pune. This dish consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft pav and served with chutneys and fried green chillies. For the best Vada Pav experience, visit Garden Vada Pav Centre, Joshi Wadewale, or JJ Garden Vada Pav.

3. Pithla Bhakri (1)
Pithla Bhakri is a traditional Maharashtrian dish that is both wholesome and delicious. This meal consists of gram flour (besan) cooked with spices and served with bhakri (jowar or bajra roti). For those who love rustic, homely flavors, Pithla Bhakri is a must-try. Some of the best places to find this dish include Shree Uphar Gruha and local dhabas around the city.

4. Bhakarwadi (1)
Bhakarwadi is a crunchy, spicy, and slightly sweet snack that is a favorite among Punekars. This deep-fried spiral snack is made of gram flour and spices and is perfect for munching on the go. The best Bhakarwadi in Pune can be found at Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, a legendary sweet shop.

5. Dabeli (1)
Originally from Gujarat, Dabeli has become a popular street food in Pune. This dish consists of a spicy mashed potato filling mixed with tamarind and garlic chutneys, peanuts, pomegranate seeds, and sev, all stuffed in a pav. Try the best Dabeli at popular spots like Laxmanrao Dabeli and Shree Dabeli.

6. Pav Bhaji (1)
Pav Bhaji is a comforting and buttery delight that is a favorite among street food lovers. The thick, spicy vegetable curry (bhaji) is cooked with butter and served with soft, buttered pav. For the best Pav Bhaji experience, visit Supreme Pav Bhaji or Siddharth Pav Bhaji.

Pune's street food scene is a must-experience for any food lover visiting the city. These iconic dishes offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

References:
[1] Food.NDTV.com. (2021). Best Street Foods You Can Find in Pune. Retrieved from https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/best-street-foods-you-can-find-in-pune-7741425