5 Jaipur eateries to taste authentic Rajasthani food

By Punit Sharma

A visit to the heart of Rajasthan’s “Pink City”, aka Jaipur, is not complete without tasting some authentic Rajasthani food. India’s first planned city, which was built by Sawai Jai Singh II, has colorful streets barricaded by tall walls. For food lovers, Jaipur is a heaven! The flavors and tastes of Jaipur’s food are unique and tasty. Rajasthani food is rich in culture with the lavish use of milk and desi ghee. So, if you are in Jaipur, feel the aroma of Rajasthan with a visit to these famous eateries.

Rawat Mishtan Bhandar: Kachori is very essential part of Rajasthani thali. This outlet-cum-hotel is famous for its Onion and Dal Kachoris. Rawat Mishtan Bhandar sell over 10,000 Kachoris per day, which is startling in itself! Not only Jaipurites, but tourists also go crazy for their Onion Kachori or “Pyaz Ki Kachori”. These crunchy-golden Kachoris will just melt into your mouth. The Kachoris are so finger-licking good that you can’t eat just one. This place is at a walking distance from the Jaipur railway station and the bus stand. (Address – Opposite Polovictory Cinema, Station Road, Sindhi Camp)

1135 AD: With the name of 1135 AD, this eatery caters authentic Rajasthani food and the feel of Rajasthani heritage in one plate. Situated in the Amber Fort, which is a world heritage site and second most visited the monument in India after Taj Mahal, it is located at a distance of 11 kilometres from Jaipur city. The moment you enter this restaurant, you will feel like a “Maharaja”. Lal Maas at 1135 AD is a definite try. The restaurant serves food on a silver plate to reflect royalty. Paneer Aftab, Sula Biryani and Jungli Maas served here will leave you craving for more. The lip-smacking food and stunning view will make you forget everything. (Address – Level 2, Jaleb Chowk, Near Sheela Mata Temple, Amer Palace, Amer)

Tapri Central: Teaterias in Jaipur are the most happening places to spend some leisure time in the evening. Tapri is an easy going place for the youngsters. They have put together old food with fusion treats. Their Cheese Puchkas, Pesto Khakra Pizzas are quite exciting. This rooftop Teateria has a wide range of teas which they provide either single serve or in a pot of three. They also have a very interesting version of Vada Pav called “Ishpecial” Vada Pav. Around monsoon, Tapri’s Dal ke Pakode is one dish which you don’t want to miss out on. (Address – B4 E, 3rd Floor, Surana Jewellers, Opposite Central Park, Prithviraj Road, C Scheme)

Chokhi Dhani: Situated away from the main city, the meaning of Chokhi Dhani is “special village”. This is an open air restaurant where you can get the feel of Indian rustic villages. Here you can get the best of authentic Rajasthani dishes like Dal Bati Choorma with pure ghee all in just one cutlery. You will love the food and the warmth of service will linger in your hearts. Apart from the food, there are excellent things to do like horse riding, maze, folk dances and a live puppet show. (Address – Chokhi Dhani Village, 12 Miles Tonk Road, Via Vatika)

Spice Court: Set in a lovely courtyard, it offers some of the spiciest dishes of Rajasthani cuisine. This restaurant is regarded as one among the top ten restaurants in India. They have their own version of Dal Baati Churma – its “Keema Baati” (huge round flour balls stuffed with spicy Keema). When it touches you taste pallet, it tingles your tongue. Their Junglee Maas, which is a mutton dish cooked with red chillies, garlic, onion and scads of ghee, is another mouthwatering preparation. (Address – Hari Bhawan, Achrol House, Jacob Road, Civil Lines)

While you enjoy eating at these places, don’t overlook the hospitable culture of Rajasthan. “Padharo Mhaare Des”!

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