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What Food To Try in Ahmedabad and Food Prices

How much does lunch and dinner cost

Examples of food prices, cafes, street food and other dining options in Ahmedabad for 2024.

National currency: Ngultrum, symbol — ₹ (international currency code INR).
General Cafe Price Guide
Average prices in Ahmedabad cafes and restaurants
$3.1 
Quick Lunch for One
Starting from $1.22
$12.2 
Dinner for Two
to celebrate your trip
Starting from $7.32
$4.3 
Combo Meal
Starting from $3.53

What to Try in Ahmedabad

Must-try Dishes
Poha - Flattened Rice Breakfast - Lightly spiced flattened rice cooked with turmeric, mustard seeds, and garnished with onions and coriander. Locals often enjoy it in the morning, paired with a steaming cup of tea, at roadside stalls.

Pav Bhaji - Mashed Vegetable Curry - A spicy blend of mashed vegetables served with butter-toasted bread rolls. This popular street food is best devoured in the evening while standing at busy vendor carts amidst the vibrant city buzz.

Kadhi - Yogurt-Based Gravy - A tangy yogurt curry thickened with chickpea flour, often served with steaming rice or khichdi. Commonly eaten for lunch or dinner, it's a household favorite during family gatherings and celebrations.

Dhokla - Steamed Chickpea Cake - A spongy snack made from fermented chickpea flour, typically sprinkled with coriander and mustard seeds. It's often found at breakfast or tea time, making for a tasty and health-conscious pick.

Surati Locho - Spiced Steamed Snack - A savory dish made from a special lentil mix, served with a dollop of butter and coriander chutney. Having it in a bustling street setting makes for a delightful experience, especially during rainy season.

Bhakri with Undhiyu - Whole Wheat Flatbread and Mixed Vegetables - This hearty dish features a rustic flatbread paired with a seasonal medley of vegetables, cooked with spices. Locals relish it during winter festivities, often sharing with family.

Vaal Ni Daal - Field Beans Curry - A rich curry made from field beans simmered with spices and peanuts, served with warm chapatis. It highlights the region’s agricultural heritage and is typically eaten during harvest time for its freshness.

Medu Vada with Sambar - Lentil Doughnut - These crispy, savory lentil fritters are served with a tangy sambar and coconut chutney. Traditionally, they're a popular breakfast choice, often enjoyed hot at bustling street stalls before noon.

Desserts & Drinks
Masala Chai - मसाला चाय (spiced tea) - A warm, flavorful blend of black tea, milk, and an assortment of spices like cardamom and ginger. Locals typically grab a cup from street vendors throughout the day, especially during morning tea breaks.

Pure Lassi - शुद्ध लस्सी (yogurt drink) - A smooth blend of yogurt and either sweet or salty flavors, served chilled in traditional clay cups. In the scorching summer months, it’s a go-to refreshment after a heavy meal, making it the perfect companion for your favorite thali.

Falguni - फल्गुनी (fruit cocktail)** - A delightful mix of fresh seasonal fruits soaked in a splash of local spirit and spices. It’s often enjoyed at festive gatherings or special occasions, where sharing and merriment are on the agenda.

Shahi Tukda - शाही टुकड़ा (bread pudding) - Deep-fried bread soaked in a rich, saffron-infused milk gravy, garnished with nuts. Traditionally served during festivals like Eid, its rich flavor and luxurious texture make it a beloved dessert.

Chilled Rabri - चिल्ल्ड रबड़ी (sweet cream dessert) - A creamy, chilled dessert made with slow-cooked milk thickened to perfection and topped with various nuts. Local families savor it during hot evenings, especially after spicy meals, as its cooling effect is both delightful and refreshing.

By the way, be cautious when ordering lassi; many places serve a.dhabha style, unleavened but thick, which might surprise taste buds that are expecting a lighter drink!

Food and Groceries in Ahmedabad

Vegetables, Fruits and Bread
Bread $0.56
Bananas $0.6
Oranges $1.14
Potatoes $0.35
Apples $1.91
Beverages
Water 1.5L $0.36
0.5L Local Beer $2.46
Imported Beer $5.12
Wine Rating >4.0 $12.2
Milk 1L $0.72

Various Groceries
Chicken $3.63
Cigarettes $4.03
Rice $0.71
Local Cheese $6.64

Overview of Cuisine and Specialties

Recently, I found myself at a local eatery during lunch hours—around 1 PM, which, by the way, is when the lunch crowd really starts pouring in. You’d be surprised to see how places like this can be packed! Just the other day, I paid ₹150 for a hearty thali that included chapati, rice, a couple of vegetable dishes, dal, and a sweet on the side. Not bad, right? Some visitors seem to think Ahmedabad is all about elaborate fine dining, but honestly, the real soul of this city’s food culture lives in these unassuming spots.

Meal times here are largely different from, say, the West where brunch is a thing. In Ahmedabad, breakfast is generally from 8 to 10 AM, lunch from 12 to 3 PM, and dinner starts around 8 PM. The city really comes alive around meal times, and finding a seat can be a challenge—especially if you’re going for something popular like **dhokla** or **khandvi**. I remember once trying to grab a quick bite during the lunch hour at a bustling street vendor only to be met with a long line. Note to self: avoid that rush hour unless you're prepared to wait!

Payment customs can be quite relaxed here. Most small eateries accept cash, and you’d find that it’s wise to keep some change handy. Carrying notes can keep you from having to explain to the vendor that you can't break a larger bill. Oh, and tipping isn’t as common here as in other places. A small round-up of your bill or leaving a few coins is appreciated but not obligatory.

One cultural custom that stands out is the shared experience. At many tables, you’ll find groups enjoying a meal together, passing around dishes. There’s an authentic sense of communal eating—something that feels quite special.

A common mistake tourists make is expecting quick service. Remember, meals here aren’t rushed. Locals take their time to enjoy food, conversations, and the atmosphere. It’s an experience, not just a transaction.

In terms of reserving a spot, I’d recommend calling ahead if you're going to a popular dining area like Manek Chowk, especially in the evenings. Trust me, nothing's worse than showing up and having to circle around like a vulture waiting for a table to open up.

Oh, and if you’re aiming to save some cash, sticking to street food can easily give you a delicious, authentic experience for under ₹50. Just the other day, I had a filling plate of **pani puri** for just ₹20!

So, embrace the flavors, soak in the atmosphere, and remember that in this vibrant city, life—and meals—are meant to be savored.