If you’re planning a trip to Agra, you’re in for a food carnival! In addition to its rich cultural heritage, the city is also famous for its mouth-watering cuisine. Agra’s food scene is a delicious blend of Mughlai, Indian, and street food cultures. The Mughals brought with them a love for rich, aromatic spices and a passion for cooking. Over time, Mughal cuisine merged with local flavours and techniques, resulting in a unique and flavourful cuisine that is unique to Agra. The legacy of the Mughals lives on today, with restaurants in Agra serving traditional dishes like Mughlai Paratha, Nihari, and Paneer Tikka. These dishes are rich, flavourful, and a true testament to the Mughal influence on Agra’s cuisine. Whether you’re a local or travelling to Agra to explore the beauty of this city, you won’t be disappointed when you order food items online in Agra.
Must-Try Street Food in Agra
Agra has a lot of street-side food stalls that make some of the most delicious and affordable food you’ll ever have. Agra’s street food has something for everyone, from spicy potato delights to tangy and savoury snacks. Here are some of the must-try food items of Agra:
1. Aloo Tikki: A Flavourful Potato Delight
Aloo Tikki is one of the best foods in Agra made of mashed potatoes mixed with spices and herbs, fried until crispy and golden brown. This delicious snack is served with mint chutney and tamarind sauce and garnished with sev, onions, and coriander. The crispy outer layer and the soft, spicy filling make Aloo Tikki an absolute delight.
Legend has it that the recipe for Aloo Tikki was created by a street vendor looking for a way to use leftover potatoes. The dish became an instant hit and is now a staple of street food culture in Agra. Many street vendors add their unique twist to the classic recipe, so try a few different versions to find your favourite.
2. Bhalla: A Tangy and Savoury Snack
Bhalla is another popular street food in Agra that is loved by locals and visitors alike. It is made of a soft, fluffy lentil ball that is soaked in yoghurt and topped with a variety of chutneys and spices. The sweet and sour flavours of the chutneys and the combination of textures make Bhalla a unique and satisfying snack.Some street vendors add crispy sev or pomegranate seeds to their Bhalla for an extra burst of flavour and texture. It’s also common to see variations of Bhalla that include other ingredients, such as boiled potatoes or chickpeas. No matter how it’s prepared, Bhalla is a must-try food in Agra.
3. Petha: Agra’s Iconic Sweet Treat
Petha is a sweet that is synonymous with Agra. It is made of ash gourd that is boiled, sugared, and flavoured with saffron and cardamom. Many variations of petha are available, including plain, chocolate, and Kesar. The sweet and soft texture of petha makes it an irresistible treat that is a must try food in Agra during your visit. The history of Petha dates back to the Mughal era, when it was considered a delicacy and was only served to the royal family. Today, Petha is enjoyed by one and all and has become an integral part of Agra’s culinary culture. You can find Petha in almost every street corner of Agra, but the best ones are said to come from the original Panchhi Petha store in the city.
4. Jalebi: A Golden Swirl of Sweetness
Jalebi is another famous food in Agra that can be found on the streets of Agra. It is made by deep-frying flour batter until crispy and then soaked in sugar syrup. The result is a crispy, golden swirl of sweetness that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Some street vendors serve Jalebis with a dollop of rabri, a sweet, condensed milk-based dessert, for an extra indulgent treat.Overall, Agra’s street food scene is a vibrant and delicious reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage. From savoury snacks to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, satisfy your sweet cravings by ordering piping hot jalebis with Swiggy!
5. Bedai: A Classic Agra Breakfast
Bedai, along with Jalebi, makes for a perfect breakfast in Agra. Bedai is a deep-fried bread that is stuffed with spiced lentils and served with a side of potato curry. This classic Agra breakfast is a delicious and satisfying start to your day.
6. Mughlai Paratha: A Rich and Flavorful Flatbread
Mughlai Paratha is an indulgent flatbread that is filled with a mixture of minced meat, spices, and herbs. It is then flattened, rolled, and fried until crisp. This rich and flavourful paratha is served with a side of mint chutney and is a must-try for meat lovers.
7. Nihari: A Slow-Cooked Meaty Delicacy
Nihari is a slow-cooked meat curry that is rich in flavour and aroma. The meat is typically beef or lamb, and it is cooked for hours in a variety of aromatic spices until it is tender and succulent. Nihari is a must try food in Agra and it is served with naan bread and is a satisfying, hearty meal that will reach your doorstep immediately if you order right away.
Best Restaurants to Experience Agra’s Cuisine
If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, Agra has plenty of restaurants that serve the best local cuisine. Here is a list of all the best, top-rated restaurants you can enjoy food at:
1. The Nawaabs: A Wholesome Dining Experience
The Nawaabs serve up some of Agra’s best local and Mughlai dishes. Their menu includes classics like Lahori Soya Kebab, Nalli Nihari, Chicken Tikka Biryani, and innovative fusion dishes that will delight your taste buds. Order online and wait until these ultimate delicacies reach your doorstep.
2. Mama Chicken Mama Franky House: A Local Favourite
Mama Chicken is a local favourite that serves up some of the best tandoori chicken in the city. The restaurant is hygienic and is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. The menu includes a variety of tandoori dishes, along with some Chinese and fast food options. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
3. Bhagat Halwai (Dayal Bagh): A Legendary Kachori Stall
If you’re looking for a famous food in Agra, Bhagat Halwai ki Kachori is a must-try. This legendary street food stall has served delicious kachoris and chaat for over 60 years. The kachoris are filled with a spicy mixture of lentils and served with a side of tamarind chutney and pickles.
Agra’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Mughlai, Indian, and street food cultures. The rich history and culture of the city have played a significant role in shaping its culinary heritage. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a taste of local flavour, Agra has something for everyone. From delicious street food in Agra to fine dining restaurants, the city offers a wide range of options to satisfy all your culinary cravings. If you’re planning a trip to Agra, make sure to try some of the dishes mentioned above from the best restaurants in Agra and discover the best food in Agra.
