Ahmedabad, the heart of Gujarat, is not just a city of heritage, but also a food lover’s paradise. From age-old recipes of the Gujarati thali to spicy, tangy, and crispy street snacks, Ahmedabad serves up a vibrant mix of traditional and modern dishes that reflect the culture and soul of Gujarat. Whether you’re visiting the city or are a local food enthusiast, here are the Top 20 Foods in Ahmedabad that you simply must try.
Table of Contents
1. Gujarati Thali
The ultimate food experience in Ahmedabad starts with a traditional Gujarati thali—a wholesome platter with dal, kadhi, bhakri, rotli, rice, farsan, pickles, and sweet dish.
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Where to Try: Agashiye, Gordhan Thal, Rajwadu
2. Khaman Dhokla
Light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, this steamed chickpea flour cake is a signature Gujarati snack.
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Best Spot: Das Khaman, Iscon Khaman House
3. Fafda-Jalebi
A classic Sunday breakfast in Ahmedabad! The spicy, crispy fafda pairs beautifully with sweet, syrup-soaked jalebi.
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Must-Try Place: Chandravilas, near Manek Chowk
4. Khichdi-Kadhi
Comfort food for every Gujarati household, khichdi (a rice-lentil dish) served with tangy kadhi makes a simple yet satisfying meal.
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Where to Eat: Vishalla, Toran Dining Hall
5. Handvo
A savory lentil cake made with fermented batter and mixed vegetables, often served with chutney.
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Top Pick: Swati Snacks, Sukhadia’s
6. Sev Usal
A spicy, tangy curry made with peas, onions, and sev (crunchy noodles), served with pav or bread.
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Street Food Spot: Law Garden Food Market
7. Dal Dhokli
Flat wheat dumplings simmered in spicy lentil soup—comforting and deeply rooted in Gujarati culture.
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Home-style Taste: Gordhan Thal, Atithi
8. Thepla
Soft, spiced flatbreads made with fenugreek and wheat flour, perfect for travel or breakfast.
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Buy It At: Havmor outlets, Gopi Dining Hall
9. Undhiyu
A winter delicacy made from mixed vegetables, fenugreek dumplings, and spices cooked upside down in earthen pots.
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Best During: Uttarayan (kite festival)
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Try At: Vishalla, Rajwadu
10. Bhajiya (Pakoras)
Fried fritters made from various vegetables like potato, onion, or spinach—ideal with a hot cup of chai.
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Famous Stall: Raipur Bhajiya House
11. Street-Style Sandwiches
Loaded with cheese, veggies, chutneys, and even noodles, Ahmedabad’s street-style sandwiches are next-level.
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Top Location: Manek Chowk, HL College Lane
12. Pav Bhaji
Gujarat’s take on the Mumbai classic. The pav is toasted in lots of butter and the bhaji is extra spicy.
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Best Joint: Honest Pav Bhaji, Law Garden Area
13. Bhuna Maggie / Masala Maggie
A college crowd favorite, Ahmedabad’s maggie stalls serve it dry, cheesy, or spicy with creative toppings.
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Hotspots: IIM Road, Vastrapur Lake
14. Kathiawadi Food
Spicy, bold flavors served with bajra rotla, garlic chutney, and ringna nu bhartu (roasted brinjal mash).
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Where to Eat: Rasthal, Rudu Kathiyawadi
15. Dabeli
A sweet, spicy potato mixture stuffed in a bun and garnished with pomegranate, peanuts, and sev.
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Try At: Nehru Nagar, Manek Chowk
16. Pani Puri & Sev Puri
Every corner has a panipuriwala with his own spicy-sweet magic. Ahmedabad versions are unique in their spice mix.
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Popular Stalls: Law Garden, Vastrapur
17. Ice Gola & Kulfi Falooda
Beating the heat with these cold treats is a must. Try flavors like kala khatta, rose, or mango.
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Famous Vendors: Manek Chowk (night market), Asharfi Kulfi
18. Dal Fry with Jeera Rice
A North Indian staple that Amdavadis have made their own. Served with papad and pickles for a complete meal.
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Best Served At: Honest Restaurants, Sankalp
19. Chinese Bhel & Sizzlers
Fusion dishes are big in Ahmedabad! From street-style Chinese bhel to Indo-Chinese sizzlers, there’s something for everyone.
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Where To Go: Karnavati Club Road, Satellite
20. Gughra & Mohanthal (Sweets)
Traditional Gujarati sweets like gughra (a dry fruit-filled pastry) and mohanthal (gram flour fudge) are must-try items.
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Where To Buy: Mithai shops at Ellis Bridge, Manek Chowk
Best Places to Explore Street Food in Ahmedabad
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Manek Chowk Night Market – Food stalls open till 2 AM
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Law Garden Street Market – Perfect for shopping + snacking
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Vastrapur Lake Food Zone – Scenic bites by the water
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SG Highway Eateries – Trendy fusion cafes and dessert bars
Food Tour Tips
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Carry tissues and water when exploring street food
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Visit during evenings for the freshest dishes
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Ask locals for their favorites—hidden gems await!
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Don’t miss trying seasonal specialties like Undhiyu and ice gola during winters and summers respectively
Final Thoughts
Ahmedabad’s food culture is a culinary carnival that represents Gujarat’s rich heritage, hospitality, and modern adaptability. From timeless thalis to Instagrammable sandwiches, there’s a flavor here for every mood and every meal. So the next time you’re in the city, let your taste buds explore these top 20 foods in Ahmedabad—because the real way to understand a city is through its food.