Best Local Food of Bhubaneswar: 15 Must-Try Dishes

Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital city, is a culinary delights’ treasure apart from being one of the most popular ancient places in India. From traditional dishes to mouth-watering street food, the local food of Bhubaneswar is a blend of rich flavors and unique preparations. 

In this Bhubaneswar food guide, we will have a look into the best local food in Bhubaneswar, the must-try street food, and the top local restaurants that serve these authentic Bhubaneswar delicacies. 

As you explore Bhubaneshwar – one of the best places to visit in Odisha, don’t forget to energise yourself with the delicious local cuisine and some must-try dishes. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a curious traveler, this guide will help you navigate through the local cuisine of Bhubaneswar.

Top 15 Local Food of Bhubaneswar You Must Try

1. Dalma

This traditional dish is made with lentils and a variety of vegetables, Dalma is a staple in Odia cuisine. It’s often seasoned with a blend of spices and served with rice. Interesting fact: Dalma is also considered a part of the Mahaprasad (sacred food) offered at the Jagannath Temple in Puri and as all know it is also one of the places to visit in Bhubaneswar. The Local restaurants in Bhubaneswar also serve this dish. 

• Where to find: Odisha Hotel, Trupti Restaurant 
• Price: ₹80 – ₹150

2. Pakhala Bhat

• Where to find: Dalma Restaurant, Nandan Restaurant
• Price: ₹60 – ₹120

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3. Chhena Poda

• Where to find: Brundaban Sweets, Pahala Sweets
• Price: ₹20 – ₹50 per piece

Also Read: 14 Best Restaurants In Kolkata: A Culinary Delight

4. Gupchup

Crisp puris filled with spicy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. This is also the Must-try street food in Bhubaneswar. This is one of the popular snacks of Bhubaneswar, in every street corner. 

• Where to find: A1 Gupchup Stall, Pani Puri Junction
• Price: ₹20 – ₹50 per plate

5. Chungdi Malai

The creamy prawn curry, Chungdi Malai, is influenced by both Odia and Bengali cuisines and this is the best local food in Bhubaneswar, showcasing the coastal culinary traditions of both regions. This dish actually decors the Authentic Bhubaneswar delicacies. 

• Where to find: Swosti Grand, Trident Hotel
• Price: ₹250 – ₹400

Also Read: 28 Best Places To Eat In Kolkata | Local Recommendations

6. Mutton Kasa

A rich and spicy mutton curry, often slow-cooked to perfection with a blend of traditional spices. Mutton Kasa is best enjoyed with steamed rice or paratha. Mutton Kasa is often prepared during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing celebration and togetherness in Odia culture. If you are a non-vegetarian, the Bhubaneswar food guide is incomplete, if you miss it. The Local restaurants in Bhubaneswar also serve this dish.

• Where to find: The Kanika Restaurant, Hotel Bari International
• Price: ₹200 – ₹350

7. Santula

• Where to find: Nakli Dhaba, Hare Krishna Restaurant
• Price: ₹60 – ₹120

8. Dahi Bara Aloo Dum

This dish has its origins in the twin cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar and is a breakfast staple for locals, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of spicy chaat masala. A famous street food, Dahi Bara Aloo Dum consists of soft lentil fritters soaked in yogurt, served with a spicy potato curry. You can term this item as the best local food in Bhubaneswar. This is one of the popular snacks of Bhubaneswar, in every street side junction. 

• Where to find: Lingaraj Lassi & Dahibara, Cuttack Road Stalls
• Price: ₹30 – ₹50 per plate

9. Pitha

• Where to find: Pitha on Wheels, Pitha Ghar
• Price: ₹10 – ₹30 per piece

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10. Besara

A mustard-based curry that can be made with various vegetables or fish, Besara is known for its tangy and pungent flavor. The mustard paste used in Besara is believed to have medicinal properties, aiding in digestion and providing anti-inflammatory benefits. This is also the Must-try street food in Bhubaneswar. 

• Where to find: Odisha Hotel, Dalma Restaurant
• Price: ₹100 – ₹200

11. Kanika

• Where to find: Trupti Restaurant, Dalma Restaurant
• Price: ₹80 – ₹150

12. Khechudi

A comforting dish similar to khichdi, Khechudi is made with rice, lentils, and vegetables, often offered as bhog in temples. Khechudi is often offered as bhog in temples, and its simple yet flavorful preparation makes it a favorite comfort food for many Odia households. This dish actually decors the Authentic Bhubaneswar delicacies. 

• Where to find: Jagannath Temple Prasad, Odisha Hotel
• Price: ₹60 – ₹100

13. Mudhi Mansa

• Where to find: Bari International, Dalma Restaurant
• Price: ₹150 – ₹300

14. Macha Ghanta

A fish curry made with a variety of vegetables and spices. Macha Ghanta is typically prepared during festive occasions and served with rice. Macha Ghanta is traditionally prepared during Durga Puja and other festive occasions, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. If you want to explore the famous local cuisine of Bhubaneswar, you need to try this.  

• Where to find: Swosti Grand, Trident Hotel
• Price: ₹200 – ₹350

15. Saru Besara

• Where to find: Odisha Hotel, Dalma Restaurant
• Price: ₹80 – ₹150

Bhubaneswar culinary landscape is as vibrant and diverse as its culture. From traditional dishes to popular street foods, the city offers a delightful gastronomic experience. Whether you’re exploring the famous local cuisine of Bhubaneswar or seeking out the best local restaurants, this food guide will serve as your perfect companion.