Best Food In Pune: A Food Lover’s Guide To Must-Visit Spots

An image of dishes cooked in Maharashtrian style from Pune, like rice, dal, egg gravy, puri, etc.

The best food in Pune reflects its rich cultural heritage as vibrant and varied. Its vibrant neighbourhoods can be strolled through; here you will find a culinary tapestry, an influence of Maharashtra, and beyond. If you have the urge for authentic Maharashtrian flavours-such as spicy Misal Pav or the sweet Puran Poli, there’s everything in this city that can satisfy that craving. The city is studded with iconic eateries that have stood the test of time, telling their stories through food.

Best Food In Pune: 10 Iconic Places Every Food Lover Must Visit

Let’s look at the city’s most iconic eateries, each with a unique experience. From cafes to rooftop dining, here’s a dive into the best food in Pune.

1. Vaishali

An image of Vaishali restaurant, a cosy place, with a red roof and surrounded by greenery.

Photo: Spandanbhatt94 / Wikimedia Commons

Vaishali, located on Fergusson College Road, isn’t just any restaurant but rather an institution of sorts in Pune. From students to families and tourists alike, visit this South Indian eatery looking for delicious dishes that they have served consistently for decades. A place where one can pop in for a quick, budget-friendly meal and be able to soak in some local vibe with the bustling ambience and aroma of strong and fresh filter coffee which is a hit amongst the regulars.

Best Time To Visit: Morning to Afternoon
Must-Try Dishes: Masala Dosa, Idli Sambar, Filter Coffee

2. Shabree

Puran poli, stuffed with Chana daal and Jaggery with desi ghee, a Maharashtrian dish.

Photo: Usha Nagle / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located on the same road as Vaishali, Shabree is the place to go for a real Maharashtrian dinner. It serves delectable, traditional Maharashtrian thalis with full loads of regional delicacies. From humble Pitla Bhakri, a very rustic dish of chickpea flour served with thick flatbread, Bharli Vangi, a traditional stuffed eggplant to the famous Puran Poli here, a flatbread stuffed with jaggery and dal stuffing, is especially divine. Furnished with rustic wooden furniture, Maharashtrian art epitomises the culture, it is more than just a meal, it’s a cultural experience.

Best Time To Visit: Afternoon
Must-Try Dishes: Maharashtrian thali, Puran Poli, Pitla Bhakri, Bharli Vangi

3. Kayani Bakery

Established in 1955, Kayani Bakery, is a dainty place, offering mood-lifting dishes and cookies.

Photo: Mink Mingle / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Kayani Bakery is synonymous with old-world charm and the best food in Camp Pune. Established in 1955, this bakery on East Street still stands out to be one of the most cherished landmarks of Pune. Locals and tourists throng for their legendary Shrewsbury biscuits that are a delight, crumbly and so buttery, making them just irresistible. Their Plum cake needs no introduction, making them best-sellers, especially around Christmas time. Walking into Kayani is almost like going back in time, wooden shelves line this place full of freshly baked cakes, breads, and cookies.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Must-Try Dishes: Shrewsbury biscuits, Mawa cake, Plum cake

4. The Baan Tao – Hyatt Pune

Variety of greens and noodles displayed on fancy chinaware bowls in a restaurant in Hyatt.

Photo: Yakeu Woangibar 3005 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Baan Tao, Hyatt Pune, is one place to go to get a good Pan-Asian dining experience. It is known for its serenity and artificial waterfall. So, the whole decor is surrounded by bamboo and candle-lit tables, creating a special ambience for a romantic dinner or an important occasion. From the fragrant and rich Thai Green Curry to their Sushi, which is pretty much the best in town, the menu is quite diverse, with Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese options; everything is prepared with precision and flair.

Best Time To Visit: Dinner
Must-Try Dishes: Dim Sum Platter, The Thai Green Curry, Sushi

5. Vohuman Cafe

Irani Bun Maska Pav served with Chai, is the best food in Pune at an Irani Joint.

Photo: Subhayan Das / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Vohuman Cafe is an old Irani cafe with a no-frills, old-school touch to it that has become a Pune landmark. There, opposite Ruby Hall Clinic, stands this unpretentious place, which is famous for its sumptuous breakfast options like the Cheese Omelette, which is thick, fluffy, and loaded with cheese. Combine it with their Bun Maska, a soft bun filled with butter, and Irani Chai for the classic breakfast experience of the city. Though simple in its decor, Vohuman manages to attract quite some regular patrons, swearing by the quality through the test of time.

Best Time To Visit: Early morning
Must-Try Dishes: The Cheese Omelette, Bun Maska, Irani Chai

6. Malaka Spice

Laksa, A chilli-laced coconut broth packed with seafood and noodles - the best food in Pune.

Photo: Alpha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Malaka Spice, across multiple locations in Pune, is a hot favourite among the masses looking to indulge their Southeast Asian food cravings, with dishes that are rich and comforting, bursting with spicy and creamy coconut flavours. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for social gatherings, especially on weekends. The artistic decor and flavours with Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and more would do justice to the setting. Whether lunchtime or dining over dinner, Malaka Spice never fails to deliver that warmth with flavour-packed dishes.

Best Time To Visit: Dinner
Must-Try Dishes: The Malaysian Laksa, Grilled Tiger Prawns, Vietnamese Pho

7. Bedekar Misal

Spicy Kolhapuri misal served with two slices of bread - the best food in Pune.

Photo: Milind Bhadvankar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For a local feel of street food in Pune, one must head out to Bedekar Misal on Narayan Peth. Over 70 years old, this small joint is most famous for its fiery misal pav, which still packs a punch to date. Lentil curry with crunchy farsan, which is a fried snack mix, is topped with soft bread, and all the flavours are bold, spicy, and distinctly Maharashtrian. Try that with Batata Bhaji and wash it down with a glass of cooling buttermilk to balance the heat

Best Time To Visit: Late morning or Brunch
Must-Try Dishes: Classic Misal Pav, Taak (buttermilk)

8. Paasha – JW Marriott Pune

Delicious prawns with buttery naan on a white plate in a restaurant in JW Marriott.

Photo: Bita RmJohnson Liuosa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Paasha is an excellent rooftop dining experience atop the JW Marriott Hotel, with fantastic viewscapes overlooking Pune’s skyline. While this fine, modern place serves mainly North Indian cuisine, what they’re famous for are soft melted kebabs and rich curries, especially the Nalli Nihari, with richness in flavours that best go with buttery naan for a lavish meal. Being open-air, with chic decor, makes this restaurant perfect for special occasions, as sunset views are a treat, making it perfect for romantic dinners.

Best Time To Visit: Dinner
Must-Try Dishes: Galouti Kebab, Nalli Nihar, butter naan

9. German Bakery

An image of a Pizza which is the best food in Pune, Maharashtra among the food lovers.

Photo: Lillottama / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The German Bakery is famous for café culture and international cuisine; street-side snacks are quick lip-smacking bites suited for the pace of teeming lives. The stall of the bakery delites offers freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and rolls. A favourite with locals is the veg club sandwich, filled to the brim with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a special chutney. It’s a great place to stop by and satisfy your sweet tooth with brownies or cookies while walking leisurely in Koregaon Park.

Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Must-Try Dishes: Mutton Kheema Pav, Cheesecake, and Brownies

10. Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale

Crunchy 'Bhakarwadi', made by frying dough stuffed with spices - the best food in Pune.

Photo: DL22YAY / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale is synonymous with the rich culinary heritage of the city of Pune and a sure place any sweet-licker would love to visit. Set up in 1950, this iconic sweet shop has, over the years, established itself as a household name in Pune, primarily due to its quality and traditional flavours. With time, Chitale Bandhu has emerged as an integral part of the city’s identity and is serving an array of mouth-watering Maharashtrian mithais and savouries to its fan base not only for their best food in camp Pune but all over India.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Must-Try Dishes: Bakarwadi, Pedhas, Besan Ladoo

Be it authentic Maharashtrian street food or an expensive fine dining experience, the city offers something for every kind of food enthusiast with varied tastes, the best food will just let you crave for more. The true gastronomic expedition awaits you in Pune, so plan a trip with TripXL now and dive into the best food in Pune to indulge your taste buds today!

Cover Photo: Prahallad singh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

One of the iconic local dishes in Pune is Misal Pav. Puran Poli, Vada Pav, Bakarwadi, and Sabudana Khichdi are some of the best local food items. Locals as well as visitors much enjoy these traditional Maharashtrian snacks.
FC Road, JM Road, and the general area around Shivaji Nagar offer some of the best street food options in Pune. Bedekar Misal and Vohuman Cafe are also good local food places.
You can try JJ Garden Vada Pav which is known for crispy vada pav or Chole Bhature at Badshahi Boarding House. Fried snack items are famous at Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, especially crispy bhakarwadi.
There are also auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses, and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Ola. Walking and cycling are also good for short distances, mainly towards the city centre.
Some of the must-visit places in Pune include Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Sinhagad Fort, and Osho Ashram. The city is thus ideal for exploring culture and outdoor tourism, with historical landmarks and forts alongside gardens.

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