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Street food in Pondicherry is a delightful experience, blending Indian flavours with French colonial influences. Located on the southeastern coast of India, Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry) is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant food culture. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes, ranging from spicy Indian snacks to unique street offerings influenced by Pondicherry’s rich heritage. Whether you are wandering through bustling markets or exploring quiet lanes, there’s always something delicious to try on the streets of Pondicherry.
10 Street Food In Pondicherry
Below is the best street food in Pondicherry to try when you visit this charming town of Tamil Nadu, India.
1. Pani Puri
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Pani Puri is a beloved snack enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish consists of hollow, crispy puris that are filled with a mixture of tangy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and seasoned chickpeas. The combination of flavours creates an exciting burst of spicy, tangy, and sweet elements with every bite. Vendors on Lal Bahadur Shastri Street prepare these fresh in the evenings, making it a go-to snack for both locals and tourists seeking a quick and satisfying treat.
Timings: 4 PM – 8 PM
Cost: ₹20 – ₹40 / $1 – $2 per plate
Location: Lal Bahadur Shastri Street, near the market area
2. Bondas
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Mission Street is famous for serving some of the best street food in Pondicherry, and Bondas are a must-try snack. These fried balls of mashed potatoes, spiced with chillies and herbs, are encased in a chickpea flour batter. Once fried, the Bondas develop a golden, crispy exterior while remaining soft and flavourful inside. Paired with tangy chutney, they provide a satisfying snack for those craving a quick bite. The simplicity of this snack, combined with its bold flavours, makes it a favourite option for evening crowds.
Timings: 5 PM – 9 PM
Cost: ₹10 – ₹30 / $1 – $2 per piece
Location: Mission Street, near JN Street
3. Samosas
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The samosas near South Boulevard offer a crispy, deep-fried treat filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. What sets these samosas apart is the balance of spice in the filling, combined with their flaky, golden pastry. Paired with a tamarind dipping sauce, they make for a snack that hits all the right notes—spicy, savoury, and tangy. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or sharing with friends, these samosas provide a filling and flavourful bite.
Timings: 3 PM – 7 PM
Cost: ₹10 – ₹25 / $1 – $2 per piece
Location: South Boulevard, opposite the school
4. Khowsuey
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If you’re looking for famous street food with a twist, Khowsuey is the dish to try. . A rich coconut milk-based noodle soup, it’s served with a variety of toppings, including boiled eggs, crispy onions, and peanuts. The dish blends the richness of coconut milk with spices, creating a hearty and comforting meal. Ideal for those looking for a filling yet flavourful option, Khowsuey combines the warmth of soup with the texture of fresh vegetables or chicken, offering a satisfying street food experience.
Timings: 6 PM – 10 PM
Cost: ₹100 – ₹150 / $2 – $3 per bowl
Location: Mission Street, next to Cafe des Arts
5. Dosa
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Annapoorna serves perfectly crispy dosas, a staple in South Indian cuisine. Made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, dosas are light yet filling. Annapoorna’s dosas are cooked to perfection—thin, crisp, and golden brown, paired with coconut chutney and sambar. The combination of the dosa’s crispness and the flavourful sides makes it an ideal breakfast or light dinner choice. Locals and tourists alike flock to Annapoorna to enjoy this simple yet iconic dish.
Timings: 7 AM – 11 AM, 6 PM – 9 PM
Cost: ₹50 – ₹100 / $1 – $2 per dosa
Location: Annapoorna, near Manakula Vinayagar Temple
6. Mutton Rolls
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Mission Street comes alive after sunset with vendors offering a variety of night street food in Pondicherry, and Mutton Rolls are a popular option. The soft paratha wrap holds a filling of spiced mutton, cooked to perfection with onions, coriander, and green chutney. The paratha’s slight chewiness contrasts beautifully with the tender and flavourful mutton inside. These rolls are ideal for those craving a warm, meaty snack after a busy day, offering a burst of flavour with each bite. Perfectly portable, they are a convenient street food option.
Timings: 7 PM – Midnight
Cost: ₹80 – ₹150 / $1 – $2 per roll
Location: Mission Street, next to Geetha Theatre
7. Parotas
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Hotel Rolex is known for its soft yet crispy parotas, a classic South Indian flatbread. Made by layering dough and cooking it on a hot griddle, the parotas are flaky on the outside while staying soft on the inside. Served with a variety of curries or chutneys, these parotas offer a versatile meal option. The flavourful curries, whether vegetarian or meat-based, complement the texture of the parotas, making them a popular choice for lunch or dinner among both locals and visitors.
Timings: 12 PM – 11 PM
Cost: ₹40 – ₹80 / $1 – $2 per piece
Location: Hotel Rolex, opposite Bharathi Park
8. Masala Puri
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Masala Puri is a layered dish featuring crunchy puris, spicy chutneys, and a mixture of boiled potatoes and peas. Each plate is topped with chopped onions, fresh coriander, and crispy sev, providing a delightful mix of textures and flavours. It’s a quick, filling snack, perfect for those craving something spicy and tangy. The puris soak up the chutneys, ensuring every bite is full of flavour. Evening hours see plenty of locals gathering around for this much-loved street food.
Timings: 5 PM – 9 PM
Cost: ₹20 – ₹50 / $1 – $2 per plate
Location: Lenin Street, near the park
9. Sandwiches
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Dhool is the go-to spot for delicious sandwiches that cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian fillings, Dhool has it all. The sandwiches are toasted until golden brown, with fresh ingredients layered inside. From classic cheese and vegetable options to more indulgent chicken fillings, these sandwiches are popular for their simplicity and flavour. They’re a convenient snack option while exploring the streets of Pondicherry, satisfying hunger without being too heavy.
Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
Cost: ₹50 – ₹150 / $1 – $2 per sandwich
Location: Dhool, opposite the Grand Bazaar
10. Crab Masala Fry
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The Crab Masala Fry on Rangapillai Road is a flavour-packed dish that seafood lovers won’t want to miss. Fresh crabs are cooked in a spiced masala, allowing the tangy, bold flavours to complement the natural sweetness of the crab meat. The crabs are stir-fried with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for an evening meal, this dish is a must-try for anyone craving seafood with a rich, spicy kick.
Timings: 6 PM – 10 PM
Cost: ₹250 – ₹400 / $3 – $4 per plate
Location: Rangapillai Road, near the petrol bunk
Street food in Pondicherry offers a diverse mix of flavours and dishes that reflect the town’s cultural richness. You can savour tangy pani puris, fried prawn delights, and crispy dosas that highlight the region’s rich culinary traditions. The influence of French and Tamil cuisines creates a unique gastronomic experience, with food stalls lining the bustling streets. Plan a trip with TripXL and discover these mouthwatering delights.
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