10 Must Try Foods and Food Places in Pune

Welcome to Pune, a city that not only boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage but also tantalizes the taste buds with its diverse and delectable culinary offerings. In this food lover's paradise, every street corner has a story to tell through its unique flavors and aromas. Join me on a gastronomic journey as we uncover the 10 must-try foods and food places that make Pune a haven for food enthusiasts.

Also Read: 3 Day Itinerary to Pune: Make the Most of Your Visit

1. Vada Pav Extravaganza at Garden Vada Pav Center

Our culinary adventure begins with the quintessential street food of Maharashtra – the humble Vada Pav. Head straight to the iconic Garden Vada Pav Center, where the aroma of freshly fried vadas and the softness of the pav will transport you to a food lover's nirvana. Don't forget to pair it with the spicy green chutney for an extra kick!

2. Irresistible Mastani at Sujata Mastani

Beat the heat with Pune's famous cold dessert drink, Mastani, at Sujata Mastani. This sinfully indulgent concoction combines thick shakes with ice cream and is named after the legendary Peshwa Baji Rao's wife, Mastani. Choose from a variety of flavors, but the Mango Mastani is a seasonal delight that you cannot miss.

3. Mouthwatering Misal Pav at Bedekar Misal

No trip to Pune is complete without savoring the spicy and flavorful Misal Pav. Bedekar Misal is a hotspot for locals, serving a fiery misal that will set your taste buds tingling. The crunchy farsan (crispy toppings) and the soft pav create a symphony of textures and tastes that make this dish a culinary masterpiece.

4. Rich Mughlai Cuisine at George Restaurant

For a change of pace, dive into the rich and aromatic Mughlai cuisine at George Restaurant. Known for its regal ambiance and exquisite kebabs, this place is a haven for meat lovers. The succulent kebabs and flavorful biryanis will transport you to the era of the Mughal rulers, making it a dining experience fit for royalty.

5. Pune's Famous Bhel at Kalyan Bhel

Stroll through the bustling streets of Pune and treat yourself to the city's famous street food – Bhel Puri. Kalyan Bhel, located in the heart of the city, is renowned for its lip-smacking bhel preparations. The crispy puffed rice, tangy tamarind chutney, and a medley of spices create a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

6. Delightful Bakery Treats at Kayani Bakery

A trip to Pune is incomplete without a visit to Kayani Bakery, a legendary establishment that has been satisfying sweet cravings since 1955. Indulge in their Shrewsbury biscuits, mawa cakes, and fruitcakes, each bite a testament to the bakery's commitment to perfection. Don't forget to pack some treats for your journey back home!

7. Authentic Maharashtrian Thali at Shabree

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Maharashtra with a hearty meal at Shabree. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Maharashtrian thali, a grand feast that showcases the diversity of the state's cuisine. From puran poli to bhakri, the thali at Shabree is a gastronomic journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for regional delicacies.

8. Legendary Bites at Good Luck Café

Step into the culinary time capsule that is Good Luck Café, an iconic establishment that has been tantalizing taste buds since 1935! Nestled in the heart of Pune, this legendary café is not just a dining spot; it's a cultural institution. Famous for its Irani chai, bun maska, and an ambiance that exudes old-world charm, Good Luck Café is where every bite tells a story

9. South Indian Delights at Vaishali

Pune's culinary landscape extends beyond Maharashtrian and Mughlai cuisines, and Vaishali is a testament to that. Renowned for its South Indian fare, Vaishali serves up delicious dosas, idlis, and filter coffee that transport you to the streets of Bangalore or Chennai. The authenticity of flavors and the warm ambiance make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

10. Cultural Fusion at Malaka Spice

Wrap up your culinary expedition with a visit to Malaka Spice, where the flavors of Southeast Asia blend seamlessly with Pune's vibrant food scene. The restaurant's eclectic menu features dishes inspired by Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cuisines. The serene ambiance and the explosion of flavors in each dish make Malaka Spice a fitting end to our journey through Pune's gastronomic wonders.

Also Read: Pune's Top 15 Weekend Getaways for One-day Trip

As our culinary exploration comes to an end, Pune's diverse and delectable food scene has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on our taste buds. From the fiery spices of Bedekar Misal to the sweet indulgence of Kayani Bakery, each bite tells a story of Pune's rich culinary heritage. So, the next time you find yourself in this vibrant city, embark on your own gastronomic adventure and discover the hidden gems that make Pune a true food lover's paradise. Happy eating!