Himachal Pradesh is not just about snow-capped peaks and scenic valleys—it’s also a treasure trove of street food that’s rich in flavor, culture, and local love. From the steaming hot Siddu in the hills to the spicy Tawa Chicken , every region has its own mouthwatering specialty. Whether you’re a tourist seeking authentic bites or a local craving your childhood favourite.
Here are 10 must-try street foods that capture the true taste of Himachal:
1. KHATTA MUTTON – KATOCH DHABA
If there’s one dish that captures the bold, rustic flavors of Himachal, it’s Khatta Mutton. Slow-cooked to perfection, Khatta Mutton gets its signature tang from amchoor (dry mango powder), giving the rich, spicy gravy a unique kick. At Katoch Dhaba, this local delicacy is made the traditional way — hearty, homestyle, and packed with Himachali love.
Tucked in the hills of Kangra district, the dhaba has long been a favorite among locals. But it’s now a must-visit for travelers hunting for authentic mountain flavors.
Location : Katoch Dhaba, Jaisinghpur, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh – PIN 176095
Timings : 8 AM to 10 PM
Pro Tip: Pair it with steamed rice for the full Himachali experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Himachal, this is one pit stop your tastebuds will thank you for!
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON KATOCH DHABA
2. BESAN BARFI – PANDITAN DI HATTI
Tucked in the picturesque town of Hamirpur, Panditan Di Hatti is synonymous with a legendary Besan Barfi—a confection that’s cherished across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
A Taste That Defines Tradition
Founded in 1980 by Pandit Jagannath Sharma in adjacent Anu, near Hamirpur, this sweet shop rose from humble beginnings to become state‑wide famed for its barfi . The secret: pure besan roasted to perfection in ghee, blended with sugar and adorned with nuts to create a rich, melt‑in‑mouth texture .
Local patrons laud its balanced sweetness and authentic flavor:
- Famous for delicious Besan Burfi of Himachal Pradesh… Must try their besan ki barfi.
- Even dignitaries, including the Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi Ji, have visited the shop seeking its signature sweet .
Address: Near PG Degree College, ANU, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh 177005 (Mappls Pin: plio6f)
Phone: +91 94180 49660
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Feature What Makes It Special
Authenticity Handcrafted barfi using traditional roasting techniques and pure ingredients
Local acclaim Rated 4.4/5 with hundreds of glowing reviews on Google and Checkle
Cultural significance Featured in local songs and served at ceremonial events across the region.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON PANDITAN DI HATTI
3. MOMOS – SONU FAST FOOD
Nestled on Hospital Road in Dhalpur, Kullu, Sonu Fast Food is a local favorite celebrated for its delicious momos and cozy fast‑food fare in the heart of Himachal Pradesh .
What Makes Their Momos Special?
- Top‑rated quality: With a stellar rating around 4.7/5, locals rave about Sonu Fast Food, calling it “Best momos” and “Best momos ever”.
- Diverse menu: Alongside momos, the menu includes veg chowmein, thukpa, and more, offering something for every palate .
A Local Record-Breaker
The shop gained national fame when its owner Sonu Kumar entered the India Book of Records by crafting 52 momos in just 5 minutes—solidifying his name in the culinary chronicles of Himachal .
Address: Hospital Road, Dhalpur, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh‑175101, India
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from 11 AM to 6–6:30 PM, with a noted variation on Sundays (around 12 PM start) .
When your travels bring you to Himachal, make sure to stop at Sonu Fast Food. Savor the hot, flavorful momos that locals swear by—and experience the record‑breaking magic for yourself.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON SONU FAST FOOD
4. BAHADUR DHABA
Nestled in the quaint village of Ghaghas (near Banaula), in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, Bahadur Dhaba is a legendary pit stop beloved by locals and travelers alike. This modest roadside eatery is simple in appearance but delivers an unforgettable taste of Himachali tradition.
Location & Authentic Vibe
- Where to find it: About 1.1 km from Ghaghas Bridge, on the road toward Bilaspur via Bagi and Bamta. Look for the HP Petrol Pump on the left as your landmark .
- Ambience: Unassuming setup, wooden seating, gleaming steel plates stacked outside, and family members cooking over traditional wood‑fire chulhas—this dhaba feels like a genuine slice of rural Himachal.
What Makes It Special
- Bahadur Dhaba is famous for its Makki Ki Roti, Kaali Mah (black gram) Ki Daal, Kadhi, and unlimited desi ghee.
- The Makki Ki Roti is freshly hand-kneaded and cooked over a slow wood flame, lending a distinct smoky aroma and texture.
- The Kaali Mah Ki Daal is rich, spiced, and generously flavored with desi ghee—a taste locals say is unmatched.
Several diners also pair their meal with homemade kadhi and optional steamed rice or saag. All served with genuine hospitality.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON BAHADUR DHABA
5. MANIRAM DHABA
Tucked beside the serene Jana Waterfall, about 30–35 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Maniram Dhaba offers an immersive experience of authentic Pahadi cuisine set against nature’s backdrop. What started as a humble roadside dhaba by an elderly local, Maniram Ji, has blossomed into a beloved destination for both food lovers and travelers seeking regional flavors.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
- Authentic Himachali Thali
The dhaba serves a single, exquisite vegetarian thali—featuring local delicacies like red rice, rajma, kadhi, makki roti, sarson saag, siddu, chutney, pickle, ghee, jaggery, and light kheer. It’s simplicity at its finest. - Wood‑fire Cooking & Local Produce
Each dish is prepared over a wood-fired chulha using ingredients sourced from nearby farms—ensuring freshness and deep Himalayan flavors. - Idyllic Setting by a Waterfall
You can dine with a view of cascading water and pine forests, enhancing the rustic charm and peaceful ambiance.
Location: Jana Village, near Jana Waterfall, approx. 35 km from Manali / 12 km from Naggar
Cuisine: A single vegetarian Himachali Thali with ~11 items
Ambiance: Rustic setup with wooden benches, steel plates, outdoor tables by the waterfall
Price: Around ₹200 per person—excellent value for freshness and portion
Rating: 4.9 star on Google, based on nearly 300 reviews
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON MANIRAM DHABA
6. RAJNI SIDDU CORNER
Tucked along NH‑3 in Biasar, Himachal Pradesh (at digital marker 246J+95G), Rajni Siddu Corner is a modest yet popular fast‑food spot celebrated for its authentic siddu and mom or veg momos.
What’s Special Here
- Siddu: The steamed Pahari specialty made from fermented wheat flour and lightly-seasoned filling—often nuts, lentils, or spices—served with desi ghee or chutney. A Himachali classic.
- Momos: Both veg and mom offerings win praise for size, freshness, and local flavor.
- Pickles & Chutneys: Accompaniments including tangy tomato or walnut chutney add an extra zing to the meal.
Feedback
Rating 4.3 star on Google from 25 reviews
Favourite mentions Authentic siddu, tasty momos, flavorful chutneys
Critiques Some guests have noted inconsistent service or taste in siddu
A mix of enthusiastic praise (“very good taste in siddu, momos…and all type of chutney and pickle”) and occasional complaints (“worst taste” or unkind service reviews) show it’s a bit hit-or-miss—but many travelers and locals still call it a must-try.
Address: 246J+95G, NH 3, Babeli (Biasar), Himachal Pradesh 175138
Services: Takeaway, brunch, lunch, quick bites, budget-friendly pricing (₹1–₹200 per person)
Opening Hours: Not widely published—likely daytime service aligned with local fast‑food stalls.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON RAJNI SIDDU CORNER
7. KHATTA MUTTON WITH RICE – TITU DHABA
From the bustling lanes of Una in Kangra district, Titu Dhaba is gaining fame for its iconic Gianchand Tawa Chicken, as featured on India Eat Mania. What started as a humble roadside dhaba has transformed into a destination for lovers of bold, straightforward North Indian tawa-style chicken.
Why It Stands Out
- Robust Flavors: Chicken pieces sizzle on a hot iron tawa over generous ghee, mixed with onions, tomato, green chillies, and a signature spice blend. The final garnish of coriander and lemon juice adds a refreshing twist.
- Local Fame: Celebrated by food bloggers and social media, this dish has become a must-try for street-food hunters visiting Una.
- Budget-Friendly & Filling: Generous portions keep the cost under ₹200, making it both economical and satisfying.
What Locals Say
Though individual online reviews for Gianchand Tawa Chicken are limited, Titu Ka Dhaba (likely the same spot or nearby) scores around 4.4 Star on Google. Guests praise its “tasty mutton rice” and fast, friendly service, with many recommending it for both vegetarian dham and non-vegetarian offerings.
Typical Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM daily
Specialties: Gianchand Tawa Chicken (non‑veg), along with vegetarian Kangri Dham or mutton rice options.
The ambiance is down-to-earth—no frills, just fast service and bold taste. Locals often mix their order with a veggie thali or mutton rice for a complete meal. Titu Dhaba’s ease, affordability, and authentic punch combine to create a memorable pit stop on any Himachal road trip.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO KHATTA MUTTON WITH RICE – TITU DHABA
8. BIR BILLING GARDEN CAFE
Tucked away in the serene Tibetan Colony of Bir, Garden Café (also known as Garden Café & Restaurant) is one of the most beloved eateries among both travelers and locals. Situated at House No. 79, Bir Colony Road, Chaugan, Bir (PIN 176077), it offers a verdant oasis of calm in the energetic alpine town.
Why Garden Café is Special
- Enchanting Garden Setting
Built around lush bougainvillaea and flowering shrubs, the café features several seating areas—outdoor courtyards, terraces, and cozy indoor corners—ideal for a tranquil meal or a dose of nature-inspired calm . - Fresh from Scratch Menu
Their menu is known for healthful, generous servings: think Garden Special Pancake with fruit and honey, ginger‑lemon‑honey tea, veggie pizzas, and local‑noodle pasta. Each dish is cooked fresh, often from scratch with no shortcuts . - Loved by Guests
With a 飲rating of 4.3–4.4★ from over 600 reviews, patrons praise the relaxed atmosphere, quality ingredients, and consistent taste. Reviewers especially love their pancakes, cold coffee, masala omelette, and soup bowls .
Menu Highlights
- Garden Special Pancake – overflowing with fruit and honey; a must-try
- Garlic or Veggie Pasta & Pizza – made with homemade sauces and local noodles
- Ginger-Lemon-Honey Tea – a warming beverage perfect for mornings
- Chunky Vegetable Soup – hearty and flavorful, ideal on a cool day
Address House No. 79, Bir Colony Rd, Chaugan, Bir, Himachal Pradesh 176077
Hours Daily 8 AM – 8:30 PM
Price Range ₹300–550 per person / ₹600–2000 depending on order
Rating 4.4★ across platforms
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON BIR BILLING GARDEN CAFE
9. SAPNA SWEETS AND BAKERS
Located in Akhara Bazar, Kullu (PIN 175101), Sapna Sweets & Bakers is a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike, especially famous for its Himachali dham thali, traditional sweets, bakery items, and snacks .
Address: Akhara & Ramshila Road area, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175101
Hours: Typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +91 94180 24001
What Makes It Special
- Traditional Himachali Dham Thali
Their signature Kullu Dham Thali—served with a variety of dals, rice, local vegetables, siddu, gulab jamun and moong dal halwa—is a top draw for diners eager to taste authentic regional cuisine .
- Bakery & Cafe Delights
Beyond sweets, Sapna offers a wide selection of bakery items—pastries, sandwiches, veggie wraps, virgin mojitos—and even fusion treats like apple or kiwi‑infused jalebi or barfi using local produce.
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON SAPNA SWEETS AND BAKERS
10. GIANCHAND TAWA CHICKEN
Hidden in the vibrant lanes of Una, Himachal Pradesh, Gianchand Tawa Chicken has become a must-visit spot for hardcore meat lovers. Known for its desi-style cooking, bold spices, and street-side charm, this humble setup delivers flavour-packed tawa chicken that punches way above its price.
Cooked fresh on a massive iron tawa with
ghee, green chillies, onion, tomato, and a secret masala mix, the chicken is fiery, tangy, and rich—just the way North Indian foodies love it. The final touch of coriander and lemon enhances the dish with a zesty kick.
Why Foodies Love It
- Desi street-style vibe with authentic tandoori flair
- Full-flavored chicken with masala-coated goodness
- Budget-friendly yet immensely satisfying
Location :Gianchand Tawa Chicken, Una, Himachal Pradesh
(Exact pin may vary – typically a street-side setup popular among locals)
Whether you’re a local or passing through Una, Gianchand Tawa Chicken is a fiery, unforgettable bite of Himachal’s bold street food culture. If you love smoky, spicy, no-frills chicken, this one’s for you.
Pro tip: Bring tissues – it’s juicy, messy, and totally worth it!
ALSO WATCH OUR VIDEO ON GIANCHAND TAWA CHICKEN
END OF ARTICLE…!!