When we talk about Amritsar, the first thought that typically comes to mind is the iconic Golden Temple, its shimmering gold facade a beacon of spiritual solace. Yet, there’s more to this historic city than its profound religious significance. Amritsar is a confluence of history and culture, and it is an epicurean adventure that will make any food lover’s heart race. With its vibrant streets and storied past, this city offers a culinary journey that’s as rich and diverse as its historical tapestry.
The journey begins at the Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple. Here, the concept of langar, a free kitchen, embodies the spirit of service and community. Every day, thousands of visitors are served a simple yet divine meal, symbolising inclusivity and humility. The langar is not just about the food; it’s a communal experience that binds people of different backgrounds in a shared moment of peace and generosity.
Venture beyond the temple, and Amritsar’s culinary landscape unfolds like a well-loved story. Start with Pehalwan’s legendary aloo wala kulcha. This unassuming street food is a symphony of flavours and textures, with spiced potato filling encased in a crispy, buttery bread that’s been a local favourite for decades.
Kanha Sweets is your go-to destination for an indulgent breakfast or a hearty snack. Their poori, served with an array of accompaniments, is both fluffy and crispy. Complement this with a serving of gurh halwa, a sweet, decadent treat made from jaggery, and a gigantic glass of lassi to wash it all down. The combination is nothing short of heavenly and is a testament to Amritsar’s sweet tooth.
Yet, no trip to Amritsar is complete without experiencing the Maah Paratha at Kesar Dhaba. This dish, with its perfect blend of spices and textures, should be concluded with a generous portion of Phirni, a traditional rice pudding that’s chilled in a clay dish, creating a satisfying end to your meal.
Amritsar’s food scene also has a robust non-vegetarian offering. Don’t miss the brain curry at Adarsh for a taste of local flavours of this part of Punjab. It’s a spicy, rich dish that’s been beloved by locals for years. Mutton chaap at Beera is another must-try—tender and flavourful, it’s cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices.
Fish lovers will find solace in Bubby’s fish surmai, and those who crave chicken can enjoy the tandoori chicken at Mama Chicken or tandoori fish at Makhan Fish. The tikka at Sunder and crispy chicken at Charming are also worth every bite, while the chilli chicken at Crystal and the special tandoori chicken at Anjan Chicken offer a spicy kick that’s hard to resist.
As the day progresses, Amritsar’s food scene doesn’t slow down. For those in between meals, there are delightful options that showcase the city’s culinary creativity. Start with the satpure, a seven-layered patty shaped like a Japanese pagoda, deep-fried until golden brown and flaky. It’s paired with a tangy sweet potato curry that is unique to Amritsar. Tarachand, near the Telephone Exchange, offers a superb paneer bhurji, a spicy, scrambled paneer dish that’s a local favourite.
Brijwasi Chat Bhandar’s tikki chaat and dahi bhalla are irresistible for a refreshing snack. The aam papad chaat at Lubhaya Ram is another must-try, offering a tangy and sweet burst of flavours. For a quick bite, Hansraj Di Hatti serves bhijja kulcha and mathi chhole, which will leave you craving more. Heera Paneer Wala’s paneer pakoras are crispy and delicious, while Pappi Di Hatti’s desi Chinese dishes offer a unique fusion twist.
Amritsar is a city where sweets are not just an afterthought but a central part of the culinary experience. At the top of the dessert list is kulfa from A-One, a creamy, flavourful treat that’s a local favourite.
Sharma Ji’s all-season gulab jamun on Lawrence Road is a warm, delightful dessert that melts in your mouth. For a taste of fresh and fruity indulgence, Durga’s strawberry ice cream is a refreshing option.
Bansal Sweets is renowned for its motichoor laddo and desi ghee pinni, which are rich and satisfying. For something a bit different, Goenka Sweets’ patisa and panjeeri are a unique treat steeped in tradition. Finally, end your sweet journey at Guru Di Hatti with their fruit cream, a perfect blend of fresh fruit and creamy goodness.
Amritsar is a city where every street corner offers a new flavour, and each meal tells a story. From the divine langar at the Golden Temple, the bustling street food scene, and the indulgent desserts that follow, Amritsar is a culinary paradise to explore. It’s a city where history and gastronomy combine to create an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you’re savouring a spicy mutton chaap or relishing a bowl of chilled phirni, Amritsar promises a deeply satisfying and profoundly memorable feast.
