Savoring Ahmedabad: Must-Try Culinary Gems of the City
Ahmedabad is a city that wears its love for food on its sleeve. From its street markets to heritage restaurants, this Gujarati gem offers a smorgasbord of flavors that tell stories of tradition, innovation, and pure gastronomic joy. Every bite here feels like a celebration, and if you haven’t experienced the city through its food, you’re missing out on a slice of its soul. Here’s a list of Ahmedabad’s most iconic eateries and dishes you must try on your next visit.
1. Gordhan Thal
When you think of Gujarati thalis, Gordhan Thal is the name that comes to mind. The unlimited thali here is a feast fit for royalty, served with the warmth of home-cooked meals. Every meal includes an array of dishes, from dal and kadhi to farsan and desserts, each bursting with authentic flavors. On lucky days, you might even get to savor their mohan thal, a sweet that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving more. It’s the kind of place where every bite feels like a loving embrace from Gujarat itself.
Where: SG Highway
When: 11:30 am – 3 pm; 7 pm – 10:30 pm
Cost: ₹450 per thali
2. Das Khaman
No trip to Ahmedabad is complete without indulging in the legendary Das Khaman. This iconic eatery serves a variety of khaman (or dhokla, as some call it), but their Tam Tam Khaman is a crowd favorite. Spicy, tangy, and soft as a cloud, it’s the perfect snack for any time of the day. The simplicity of the dish belies the complexity of flavors packed into every bite.
Where: Navrangpura
When: 8 am – 8 pm
Cost: Starting at ₹20
3. Iscon Gathiya
Breakfast in Ahmedabad often means fafda and jalebi, and no one does it better than Iscon Gathiya. Their crisp fafdas paired with piping hot jalebis and a side of chutney are the stuff of legends. Locals swear by this combination, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a breakfast staple. There’s something about starting your day with this traditional pairing that feels just right.
Where: SG Highway
When: 6 am – 10 pm
Cost: ₹60 onwards
4. Mahalaxmi Dosa and Pav Bhaji
If you’re exploring Manek Chowk, you cannot miss the famous Mahalaxmi Dosa stall. Their pav bhaji is rich and buttery, and their tawa pulao packs a spicy punch. Arrive early to grab a spot because the crowds here are as loyal as they are large. The vibrant atmosphere adds an extra layer of magic to every bite.
Where: Manek Chowk
When: 7 pm – midnight
Cost: ₹100 onwards
5. Balan Dosa
When it comes to dosas, Balan Dosa at Manek Chowk takes indulgence to the next level. Picture this: a crispy dosa slathered with copious amounts of butter, making it impossible to resist. It’s not just food; it’s happiness wrapped in golden-brown goodness. For butter enthusiasts, it’s nothing short of a dream come true.
Where: Manek Chowk
When: 7 pm – midnight
Cost: ₹150 onwards
6. Lucky Restaurant
Lucky Restaurant isn’t just another chai spot – it’s a slice of Ahmedabad’s history. Located near a graveyard, this legendary tea house is where artists like M.F. Husain once sipped their chai. Pair their signature chai with a bun muska, and you’ll understand why this place has stood the test of time. It’s a place where stories brew as richly as the tea itself.
Where: Lal Darwaja
When: 7 am – 11 pm
Cost: ₹50 onwards
7. Agashiye
For a touch of elegance, head to Agashiye, a heritage rooftop restaurant that offers a Gujarati thali experience like no other. Served in brass plates, the food here is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the dining experience here is truly unforgettable. It’s the perfect spot for special occasions or simply to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Where: The House of MG, Lal Darwaja
When: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm; 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹1,200 per thali
8. Apna Barbeque Adda (Apna Adda)
Tucked away in the H.L. College area, Apna Adda is a hotspot for grilled delights. Their paneer roll is a standout, with perfectly spiced paneer wrapped in soft roti, grilled to perfection. This student-friendly joint is a must-visit for a quick, flavorful bite. Every roll comes with a side of laughter and camaraderie, thanks to the lively crowd.
Where: H.L. College Road
When: 6 pm – midnight
Cost: ₹80 onwards
9. Induben Khakhrawala
When it comes to khakras and preserved snacks, Induben Khakhrawala is Ahmedabad’s pride. From traditional flavors to quirky innovations like pani puri khakra, they’ve mastered the art of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s the perfect spot to pick up edible souvenirs to keep Ahmedabad with you wherever you go.
Where: Ellisbridge
When: 9 am – 8 pm
Cost: Starting at ₹50
10. Patel Ice Cream
Ahmedabad nights often end on a sweet note at Patel Ice Cream, an old-school parlor that serves handmade ice creams in an array of flavors. From seasonal fruits to classics like kesar pista, every scoop here is a testament to the city’s love for desserts. It’s a tradition for many families to gather here after dinner and bond over their shared love for ice cream.
Where: Relief Road
When: 8 pm – midnight
Cost: ₹50 onwards
Final Thoughts
Ahmedabad’s food scene is a reflection of its rich culture, warm hospitality, and unrelenting love for flavors. Whether you’re devouring a buttery dosa at Manek Chowk, savoring a thali at Agashiye, or snacking on fafda jalebi at Iscon Gathiya, every bite tells a story. The next time you’re in Ahmedabad, make sure to tick these spots off your foodie bucket list. And if we missed your favorite, let us know in the comments! Happy feasting!