From iconic classics to hidden gems — the ultimate Pune food guide
🏆 Top 10 Iconic Food Experiences in Pune
- Misal Pav at Bedekar Tea Stall (Narayan Peth)
Why: It’s not just food — it’s a Puneri institution. A medium-spicy misal topped with crunchy farsan, chopped onions, and a dash of lemon, served with pav and an occasional lecture from an old-timer nearby.
Pro tip: Go early — it sells out before noon.
📍 Narayan Peth
- Vada Pav at Garden Vada Pav Centre (Camp)
Why: Spicy potato filling inside a crispy golden crust, loaded with chutneys and served blazing hot. Pune’s version of the iconic Mumbai snack — and some say better.
Pro tip: Add the fried green chili only if you’re spice-confident.
📍 JJ Garden, Camp
- Thali at Shabree Restaurant (FC Road)
Why: A well-balanced Maharashtrian thali featuring puran poli, bhakri, aamti, and seasonal vegetables — served with warmth and tradition.
Pro tip: Skip breakfast. Come hungry.
📍 Hotel Parichay, FC Road
- Bun Maska & Chai at Vohuman Café (Dhole Patil Road)
Why: This Irani café is beloved for its fluffy bun slathered with butter and strong, no-nonsense chai. A timeless Pune breakfast ritual.
Pro tip: Don’t expect ambiance — just character.
📍 Dhole Patil Road, near Ruby Hall Clinic
- Mastani at Sujata Mastani (Sadashiv Peth)
Why: Thick fruit milkshake topped with ice cream and dry fruits. A dessert-drink hybrid that’s all indulgence and 100% Pune-invented.
Pro tip: Mango is classic, but try seasonal flavors like Sitaphal (custard apple).
📍 Sadashiv Peth and multiple branches
- Sabudana Khichdi at Vaishali Restaurant (FC Road)
Why: A breakfast staple during fasting days, Vaishali’s version comes with soft tapioca pearls, roasted peanuts, and a perfect green chili kick.
Pro tip: Order it with strong filter coffee for the perfect upvas combo.
📍 FC Road
- Kheema Pav at Goodluck Café (FC Road)
Why: Spiced minced meat served with soft pav — old-school Irani style. Perfect for brunch or a heavy snack.
Pro tip: Pair it with their caramel custard.
📍 FC Road
- Dahi Misal at Shree Uphar Gruh (Deccan)
Why: A lesser-known, cooler cousin of the fiery misal. Yogurt balances the heat while keeping all the crunch and spice.
Pro tip: Go on weekdays for faster service.
📍 Near Deccan Gymkhana
- Kathi Rolls at Kapila Kathi Kabab (Dhole Patil Road)
Why: Succulent meat wrapped in a soft, flaky paratha — Kapila’s rolls are a cult favorite among meat lovers.
Pro tip: Order two. You’ll want more.
📍 Dhole Patil Road
- Thalipeeth & Thecha at Jeevan Café (Kothrud)
Why: Rustic, earthy flavors. Thalipeeth (multigrain flatbread) served with spicy thecha (chili chutney) and white butter.
Pro tip: Ask for jaggery on the side to balance the heat.
📍 Kothrud
🕵️♂️ 5 Hidden Gems for Food Lovers
- Gokhale Upahar Gruha (Shukrawar Peth)
Why: A throwback eatery known for kande pohe, sabudana vada, and homestyle chai — served with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Pro tip: Great for early risers and peaceful breakfasts.
📍 Shukrawar Peth
- Asha Dining Hall (Karve Nagar)
Why: Comfort food at its finest — this humble thali spot delivers consistency and calm in every meal.
Pro tip: Their kokum sharbat is excellent.
📍 Karve Nagar
- Datta Snacks (Wakad Highway)
Why: Popular among road-trippers and foodies alike for its spicy misal, sabudana vada, and street-style sandwiches.
Pro tip: Perfect pit stop when heading out of town.
📍 Mumbai-Bangalore Bypass, Wakad
- Joshi Wadewale (Narayan Peth)
Why: A small joint with a loyal following, famous for its crunchy vada pav and quick-service snacks.
Pro tip: Try the batata bhaji along with your vada.
📍 Narayan Peth (also multiple branches)
15. Aram Vada Pav (Near Pune Railway Station)
Why: An old favorite for those arriving or departing Pune. Their vadas are hot, soft, and just greasy enough to be delicious.
Pro tip: Great with cutting chai after a long train ride.
📍 Near Pune Railway Station
🧭 Zomefy Recommends:
- If you’re new to Pune: Start with Bedekar, Sujata, and Garden Vada Pav
- If you’re visiting again: Explore Shukrawar Peth or Karve Nagar‘s culinary hideouts
- If you’re hungry now: Bookmark this article and step out. Pune’s always cooking.
Keywords: Best food in Pune, must-try dishes Pune, hidden food places in Pune, Pune street food guide
