When you visit Udaipur, the beauty of its lakes and palaces is only half the story. The other half lies in its rich, flavorful cuisine that reflects the royal heritage and cultural diversity of Rajasthan. From street food snacks to spicy curries and slow-cooked meat dishes, Udaipur’s local food is an unforgettable part of the experience.
Whether you're dining at a traditional haveli or grabbing a quick bite from a market stall, here's a mouthwatering guide to the best local foods to try in Udaipur.
1. Dal Baati Churma: The King of Rajasthani Cuisine
No culinary journey in Udaipur is complete without trying Dal Baati Churma. This traditional dish consists of three parts:
Dal: a mix of lentils cooked with spices
Baati: hard, round wheat rolls baked over fire or in ovens
Churma: a sweet mix of crushed baati, jaggery, and ghee
Rich, hearty, and soul-satisfying, Dal Baati Churma is usually served with lashings of desi ghee and is a must-have for lunch or dinner in Udaipur.
2. Gatte Ki Sabzi: Gram Flour Goodness
This Rajasthani classic is made from gram flour (besan) dumplings simmered in a spiced yogurt curry. Gatte Ki Sabzi is flavorful, spicy, and typically enjoyed with chapatis or rice. It's also a vegetarian delight that showcases how inventive local cuisine can be with limited ingredients.
Find it in most traditional thali meals or ask for it specifically at local restaurants and homestays.
3. Laal Maas: For the Meat Lover
If you're into spicy, meaty curries, Laal Maas is Udaipur’s showstopper. This fiery mutton curry is made using red chilies, garlic, and ghee, slow-cooked to perfection.
While traditionally served with bajra roti or steamed rice, Laal Maas is also an excellent pairing with tandoori naan. Best enjoyed at heritage-style restaurants and Best Resort in Udaipur that serve authentic royal Rajasthani fare.
4. Ker Sangri: The Desert Vegetable Delight
Ker Sangri is a unique Rajasthani preparation using desert-grown berries (ker) and beans (sangri), cooked with oil, spices, and yogurt. This dish is tangy, spicy, and goes perfectly with missi roti or plain rice.
It's one of the healthiest and most authentic Rajasthani dishes, often included in thali meals at traditional restaurants in Udaipur.
5. Mirchi Bada: The Spicy Street Snack
This deep-fried treat is perfect for spice lovers. Whole green chilies are stuffed with spiced potatoes or gram flour and coated in besan batter before being fried until golden and crispy.
You’ll find Mirchi Badas at almost every street food corner in Udaipur, especially near Ghanta Ghar, Surajpole, and Chetak Circle. Pair it with sweet tamarind chutney or have it with a hot cup of tea.
6. Kachori & Samosa: The Breakfast Heroes
Locals in Udaipur start their day with spicy kachoris and samosas served with tangy chutneys. The most popular versions include:
Pyaz Kachori: stuffed with spiced onion mix
Dal Kachori: filled with lentils and spices
Aloo Samosa: filled with mashed potato and peas
You can enjoy these snacks at famous shops like JMB (Jodhpur Misthan Bhandar) and Shastri Circle stalls, often accompanied by a glass of lassi.
7. Rabdi & Malpua: For the Sweet Tooth
No Rajasthani meal is complete without something sweet. In Udaipur, Rabdi (thickened sweet milk) and Malpua (sweet pancakes) are a classic combination. Rabdi is also served as a standalone dessert at weddings and festivals.
Another popular dessert is Ghevar, especially during the Teej and Rakhi festivals.
8. Kulhad Coffee & Chai by the Lake
While not a dish per se, sipping kulhad coffee or chai by Fateh Sagar Lake or Lake Pichola is a cherished local experience. The earthen pot (kulhad) adds a unique flavor, and the peaceful lake view makes it even better.
This is especially popular with couples staying at Best Honeymoon Resorts in Udaipur who want a calm evening activity.
9. Traditional Rajasthani Thali: Try It All
If you’re short on time and want to experience the full spectrum of Udaipur’s flavors, go for a Rajasthani Thali. These platters usually include:
Dal Baati Churma
Gatte Ki Sabzi
Ker Sangri
Chapati/Roti
Rice
Pickles, Chutneys, and Sweets
Some great thali-serving places include Krishna Dal Baati, Natraj Dining Hall, and Traditional Khana.
10. Mewari Cuisine at Heritage Properties
Want to elevate your dining experience? Book a royal meal at one of the Best Wedding Venues in Udaipur or traditional resorts that serve Mewari cuisine in a regal setting. Think courtyard dinners, torch-lit surroundings, and live folk music as you enjoy your plate of heritage.
Final Thoughts
From fiery meat dishes to soulful vegetarian curries and lip-smacking snacks, Udaipur’s local food is as rich and layered as its royal history. Whether you're wandering through the old city or dining at a rooftop restaurant, every bite here tells a story of tradition, spice, and cultural warmth.