Forget the glitz and glamour of diamond-encrusted baubles; Indore’s true treasures lie sizzling on steaming carts and overflowing plates! Embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Madhya Pradesh, where the aroma of spices mingles with the joyful chatter of crowds, and every corner explodes with a kaleidoscope of flavours. This is Sarafa Bazaar and 56 Dukan, Indore’s legendary street food paradise, waiting to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with memories that linger long after your last bite.
Unveiling the Culinary Gems of Sarafa Bazaar
As the sun dips below the horizon, Sarafa Bazaar awakens, transforming from a jewellery haven to a nocturnal wonderland for the senses. String lights illuminate the labyrinthine lanes, casting a warm glow on the vibrant stalls overflowing with culinary delights. The air is thick with the intoxicating fragrance of frying jalebis, the gentle sizzle of tandoori grills, and the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread.
Indore’s street food scene is a symphony for the senses, a vibrant tapestry woven from generations-old recipes and local culinary traditions. Here, don’t be surprised to find yourself elbow-to-elbow with locals and fellow travellers, all united in their pursuit of the next delicious bite.
A Culinary Journey Through 56 Dukan
56 Dukan, literally translating to “56 Shops,” is a legendary food hub boasting, well, a whole lot more than 56 shops these days! Each stall here is a haven for a specific culinary speciality, transforming this bustling area into a microcosm of Indore’s vibrant food scene.
Prashant Hotel: The King of Poha
Start your exploration with a steaming plate of poha, a flattened rice dish, at Prashant Hotel. This iconic stall is a local legend, famed for its perfectly cooked poha, tossed with onions, peanuts, and a secret blend of spices that will leave you wanting more.
Head Sahab Ki Pohe: A Poha Pilgrimage
For the ultimate poha purist, a visit to Head Sahab Ki Pohe is a must. This no-frills stall serves a simple yet soul-satisfying poha, relying on the quality of ingredients and generations-old cooking techniques to create a dish that is both comforting and unforgettable.
Joshi Dahi Vada: A Match Made in Heaven
Indulge in the classic combination of creamy dahi (yogurt) and crispy vadas (fritters) at Joshi Dahi Vada. The soft, pillowy vadas soak up the cool, tangy yogurt, creating a textural and flavourful explosion in every bite.
Rasgulla House: A Sweet Interlude
Take a break from the savoury with a trip to Rasgulla House. These melt-in-your-mouth cottage cheese dumplings, soaked in a sweet, syrupy saffron broth, are the perfect way to cleanse your palate and prepare for the next round of culinary adventures.
Naveen Coconut Crush: Beat the Indore Heat
Indore’s vibrant climate begs for a refreshing drink, and Naveen Coconut Crush delivers. Witness the expert vendors expertly crack open coconuts, transforming them into glasses brimming with cool, refreshing coconut water – a perfect pick-me-up on a hot Indian day.
Laxmi Narayan Doodhwala: A Creamy Legacy
Indulge in a glass of steaming hot doodh (milk) at Laxmi Narayan Doodhwala. This iconic stall, established in 1940, is famed for its rich, creamy milk, perfect on its own or enjoyed with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dollop of saffron.
Johny Hot Dog: A Fusion Delight
Indore’s street food scene is not afraid to embrace global influences. Johny Hot Dog is a testament to this, offering a unique take on the classic American hot dog. Here, the hot dog is nestled in a soft bun and slathered with a tangy chutney, creating a fusion of flavours that is both familiar and exciting.
Rajhans Hotel: A Kulfiness Conclusion
They have Biryani and other non-veg curries too. For a wholesome meal, have the Chicken Kadhai or Mutton Kadhai with Butter Roti or Rice. The curries are made of rich Indian spices which gives them a very distinct taste and spiciness. Though the menu has vegetarian items, I must recommend you to stick to the non-vegetarian ones.End your culinary adventure on a sweet note with a trip to Rajhans Hotel. Here, you’ll find the quintessential Indian dessert – kulfi. This dense, creamy ice cream, flavoured with pistachios, cardamom, and saffron, is the perfect way to cap off your unforgettable exploration of Indore’s street food paradise.
