Rajkot is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of traditional Gujarati dishes along with some regional and innovative delights. Whether you are a fan of spicy foods, sweet treats, or savory snacks, Rajkot has something to tantalize every palate. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 foods you must try in Rajkot, along with the best places to enjoy them.
1. Dhokla
Overview:
Dhokla is a quintessential Gujarati snack made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, steamed to perfection. It’s soft, spongy, and served with a tangy green chutney.
What Makes It Special:
- Light, fluffy texture and mildly tangy flavor.
- Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Where to Try:
- Shree Sweets, Rajkot Haat, and Kotecha Market.
Cost:
- ₹30 – ₹50 per plate
2. Khandvi
Overview:
Khandvi is a savory Gujarati snack made from gram flour (besan), yogurt, and spices. The mixture is rolled into bite-sized pieces and garnished with mustard seeds and coriander.
What Makes It Special:
- The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a spicy and tangy flavor.
- Ideal as an appetizer or a quick snack.
Where to Try:
- Shree Sweets, Kotecha Market, and Sadar Bazar.
Cost:
- ₹30 – ₹60 per plate
3. Patra
Overview:
Patra is made from colocasia leaves stuffed with a spiced gram flour mixture, rolled up, and steamed. It’s then cut into slices and served with chutneys.
What Makes It Special:
- Rich in flavors with a combination of spices, tamarind, and coriander.
- A unique dish that’s both savory and slightly tangy.
Where to Try:
- Rajkot Haat, Sadar Bazar, and Kotecha Market.
Cost:
- ₹50 – ₹100 per plate
4. Farsan
Overview:
Farsan is a collective term for a variety of deep-fried snacks in Gujarati cuisine, including khaman, dhokla, samosa, khandvi, and more. These are often served with chutneys.
What Makes It Special:
- A variety of deep-fried snacks, offering both spicy and tangy flavors.
- Perfect for snacking or serving alongside tea.
Where to Try:
- Sadar Bazar, Rajkot Haat, and Shree Sweets.
Cost:
- ₹20 – ₹100 per plate
5. Sev Khamani
Overview:
Sev Khamani is a savory dish made from crumbled khaman topped with crispy sev (fried gram flour noodles), chopped onions, and coriander. It’s served with tangy green chutney.
What Makes It Special:
- A perfect combination of soft, steamed khaman with crispy sev and a tangy dressing.
- A classic street food snack in Rajkot.
Where to Try:
- Shree Sweets, Rajkot Haat, and C.S. Soni Chowk.
Cost:
- ₹30 – ₹50 per plate
6. Fafda and Jalebi
Overview:
Fafda is a crispy, crunchy fried snack made from gram flour, typically served with spicy chutney and raw papaya. It is commonly paired with Jalebi, a sweet, syrup-soaked fried dough.
What Makes It Special:
- The perfect balance of crispy and sweet flavors.
- Often enjoyed during breakfast or as an early morning snack.
Where to Try:
- Café Bondi, Sadar Bazar, and Rajkot Haat.
Cost:
- ₹50 – ₹150 per plate (for both items)
7. Samosa
Overview:
Samosas are fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are served with mint chutney or tamarind chutney.
What Makes It Special:
- A savory snack loved across India, with a delightful crunch and spiced filling.
- A great street food snack for on-the-go eating.
Where to Try:
- Shree Sweets, Sadar Bazar, and C.S. Soni Chowk.
Cost:
- ₹20 – ₹40 per samosa
8. Pav Bhaji
Overview:
Pav Bhaji is a street food favorite made from a spiced vegetable mash (bhaji) served with buttered pav (bread rolls). It’s one of the most popular fast foods in Rajkot.
What Makes It Special:
- A rich, buttery, and spicy vegetable mix served with soft bread.
- Perfect for those who enjoy hearty street food meals.
Where to Try:
- C.S. Soni Chowk, Station Road Market, and Rajkot Haat.
Cost:
- ₹50 – ₹100 per plate
9. Dabeli
Overview:
Dabeli is a popular Gujarati burger made with a spiced potato mixture and served inside a soft bun, topped with pomegranate seeds, peanuts, and chutney.
What Makes It Special:
- A delicious spicy-sweet snack, combining crispy, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Great for quick bites on the go.
Where to Try:
- Shree Sweets, Station Road Market, and Rajkot Haat.
Cost:
- ₹40 – ₹70 per dabeli
10. Khichdi
Overview:
Khichdi is a simple but flavorful dish made from rice and lentils. It’s usually served with ghee, pickles, and papad. It’s a popular comfort food in Gujarat.
What Makes It Special:
- A hearty and nutritious dish made with a mix of rice and lentils.
- A go-to dish for a warm, comforting meal.
Where to Try:
- Rajkot Haat, Sadar Bazar, and Hotel Shree Krushna.
Cost:
- ₹50 – ₹150 per plate
Conclusion
Rajkot offers a wealth of delicious street food that reflects its vibrant Gujarati culture. From spicy pav bhaji to the comforting warmth of khichdi, these top 10 foods provide a wonderful array of flavors for anyone visiting the city. Don’t forget to stop by popular food destinations like Sadar Bazar, Rajkot Haat, and C.S. Soni Chowk to experience the true taste of Rajkot’s street food!