Top 10 Best Food Places in Vadodara: A Foodie’s Guide 2024
Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is not only rich in history and culture but also a hub for food lovers. From the city’s bustling street food corners to family-owned restaurants, Vadodara offers a unique taste that reflects its vibrant Gujarati heritage and diverse influences. Here’s a guide to the must-visit food spots in Vadodara, along with their locations, specialties, timings, and tips to enhance your culinary journey.
Must-try foods in Vadodara
1. Mahakali Sev Usal
- Location: Raopura, Vadodara
- Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM
- Must-Try Food: Sev Usal
- Tip: Try it with a side of buttered pav (bread) for a more filling meal.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Mahakali Sev Usal has been a favorite for locals for decades. The spicy, tangy Sev Usal, topped with crunchy sev and served with a dash of lemon, is the perfect balance of flavors. It’s an iconic dish of Vadodara that food lovers should not miss.
2. Laxmi Vilas Palace Cafeteria
- Location: Laxmi Vilas Palace, J.N. Marg, Vadodara
- Timings: 11 AM to 7 PM
- Must-Try Food: Traditional Gujarati Thali
- Tip: Pair your meal with a palace tour for a historic experience.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Nestled within the Laxmi Vilas Palace grounds, this cafeteria offers not only delicious Gujarati food but also a view of one of India’s grandest palaces. It’s an ideal spot to savor traditional Gujarati dishes while soaking in a royal ambiance.
3. Mandap Restaurant
- Location: Express Hotel, Alkapuri, Vadodara
- Timings: 11 AM to 3 PM; 7 PM to 11 PM
- Must-Try Food: Gujarati Thali
- Tip: Go hungry, as the portions are generous, and the thali has endless varieties.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Mandap Restaurant serves one of the best Gujarati thalis in town, with flavors that capture the essence of Vadodara’s food culture. The variety in the thali, including sweets, dal, rotis, and seasonal dishes, makes it a must-try.
4. Kalyan Hotel
- Location: Sayajigunj, Vadodara
- Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
- Must-Try Food: Butter Idli and South Indian Thali
- Tip: Visit during breakfast hours for freshly made South Indian dishes.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Known for its South Indian delicacies, Kalyan Hotel has been a go-to for authentic dosas, idlis, and vadas. The butter idli melts in your mouth, and their sambar has just the right spice level, making it a local favorite for breakfast.
5. Raju Omelet Centre
- Location: Sayajigunj, Vadodara
- Timings: 6 PM to Midnight
- Must-Try Food: Butter Egg Bhurji and Cheese Omelet
- Tip: Perfect for a late-night snack after exploring Vadodara’s sights.
- Why You Should Eat Here: A haven for egg lovers, Raju Omelet Centre is famous for its egg-based creations. Their butter egg bhurji, cooked with a generous amount of butter and spices, is an indulgent treat that makes this place stand out among Vadodara’s street food scene.
6. Pyarelal Ki Kachori
- Location: Nyay Mandir, Vadodara
- Timings: 8 AM to 8 PM
- Must-Try Food: Kachori and Chutney
- Tip: This is a popular breakfast spot, so arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Known for its crispy and spicy kachoris, Pyarelal Ki Kachori is a place you can’t miss. These kachoris are served with a tangy chutney that adds a burst of flavor and makes them a satisfying and affordable snack.
7. Alkapuri Havmor
- Location: Alkapuri, Vadodara
- Timings: 11 AM to 11 PM
- Must-Try Food: Chhole Bhature, Tandoori Platter, Ice Cream
- Tip: Try their in-house ice cream flavors to complete your meal.
- Why You Should Eat Here: A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Havmor offers a wide range of North Indian dishes and is renowned for its Chhole Bhature. The freshly made bhature and flavorful chhole make it a hearty meal, and their ice cream is a perfect dessert to end with.
8. Canara Coffee House
- Location: Near Jubilee Baug, Vadodara
- Timings: 8 AM to 10 PM
- Must-Try Food: Filter Coffee, Masala Dosa, Idli
- Tip: Go for breakfast to enjoy the freshest South Indian snacks.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Known for its authentic South Indian food, Canara Coffee House is an iconic establishment in Vadodara. Their filter coffee is smooth and aromatic, and the dosas and idlis are prepared with the traditional flair that locals adore.
9. Burgerwala
- Location: Karelibaug, Vadodara
- Timings: 4 PM to Midnight
- Must-Try Food: Cheese Burst Burger
- Tip: A popular spot among youngsters, so expect a lively atmosphere.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Known for its fusion of Western and Indian flavors, Burgerwala is popular for its loaded, cheese-filled burgers. The Cheese Burst Burger is generously stuffed and uniquely spiced, making it a must-try for burger enthusiasts.
10. Maji Sainik Omelet Centre
- Location: Fatehgunj, Vadodara
- Timings: 7 PM to Midnight
- Must-Try Food: Omelet Pav, Masala Bhurji
- Tip: This is a late-night spot, perfect for a midnight snack.
- Why You Should Eat Here: Maji Sainik Omelet Centre has become an institution for Vadodara’s egg lovers. The soft, fluffy omelets are packed with spices and are served with pav, making it a comforting, filling meal for night owls.
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Conclusion
Vadodara’s food scene is a rich blend of traditional Gujarati flavors and diverse influences from across India. Each of these spots offers unique dishes and experiences, from enjoying street food under the stars to savoring a royal thali within palace grounds. Whether you’re a fan of spicy street snacks, South Indian delights, or traditional Gujarati meals, Vadodara’s culinary landscape has something for every taste.