From Bhutta to Bal mithai: Nainital’s ultimate street food guide

When you think of Nainital, we all know that it is sabka dream destination. But let’s spill the chai—this town isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes, it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers! From sizzling street snacks to authentic pahadi flavours passed down through generations, Nainital has a culinary scene that deserves just as much hype. So, skip the usual Maggi, Momos, and Laphing by the lake (although, woh bhi ek alag vibe hai) and dive into these must-try Kumaoni delights!

Traditional Kumaoni delights you can’t miss

Aloo ke gutke: The spicy pahadi snack

Aloo Ke Gutke is what happens when potatoes get an upgrade. Stir-fried with mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and local spices, this dish is crunchy, spicy, and downright addictive. It’s usually served with bhang ki chutney—yes, bhang! But chill, it’s made from hemp seeds and totally legal.

Where to try? Local dhabas of Nainital and The Kumaoni Farm Café.

Try the delicious tangy Aloo in Kumaoni style

Baadi: The power-packed comfort food

This humble yet hearty dish is made with urad dal flour, cooked into soft dumplings, and dunked in a flavorful, tangy gravy. Traditionally, Baadi was a poor man’s meal, cooked by farmers in the hills who needed something nutritious yet easy to prepare. Still, It’s rich in protein and a favorite in Kumaoni households. Pair it with hot rice and ghee, and you’ve got yourself a cozy mountain meal.

Where to try? Zooby’s Kitchen.

Baadi a Kumaoni main cousre | Credits:https://www.uttarakhandi.com/baadi/

Bhatt Ki Churkani: The smoky Kumaoni dal

A soulful dish made from black soybeans (bhatt dal) slow-cooked with spices, onions, and tomatoes until it turns into a delicious, thick curry. The deep, smoky flavor makes it an instant winter favorite. A staple in every pahadi home, this dal was once considered a poor man’s meal, but today, it’s a delicacy you’ll find in the best eateries.

Where to try? The Kumaoni Farm Café.

Bhatt ki churkani | credits:http://www.archanaskitchen.com

Bhang Ki Chutney: The ultimate Kumaoni sidekick

Tart, nutty, and spicy—this chutney made from roasted hemp seeds, garlic, lemon, and green chilies is a flavor bomb. It’s the perfect dip for parathas, rice, or just about anything. No trip to Nainital is comple te without tasting this!

Where to try? Most local dhabas and traditional eateries.

Try Bhang ki chutney | Credits: http://www.whiskaffair.com

Sweet treats from Nainital

Bal mithai: Kumaon’s famous chocolate fudge

If fudge and laddoo had a baby, it would be Bal Mithai. This sweet delight is made with roasted khoya, coated in tiny sugar balls, and tastes like a dream. It’s the most famous sweet from Kumaon, and you can’t leave Nainital without trying it. Fun fact: This sweet gained popularity during the British era when it became a favorite among officers posted in the hills.

Where to buy? Mamu’s Naini Sweets, Panchachuli House.

Chocolate fudge with a change | credits:http://www.youruttarakhand.com

Singal: The Kumaoni doughnut

A lesser-known gem, Singal is a deep-fried, sweet spiral bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Think of it as a desi doughnut, best enjoyed with a hot cup of chai. Traditionally, it was made during festivals, but now you can find it at local sweet shops all year round.

Where to try? Bada Bazaar’s local sweet shops.

Singhal The Kumaoni fried donut | Credits: thegastronomicbong.com

Arsa: The festive sweet snack

Made with jaggery, rice flour, and deep-fried to golden perfection, Arsa is a Kumaoni festive favourite. This sweet has been around for centuries, often prepared during weddings and special occasions. If you spot a local sweet shop selling it, consider yourself lucky!

Where to buy? Local sweet shops in Bada Bazaar.

Try Arsa as a dessert

Also don’t forget to try:

Buransh sharbat – A refreshing drink made from rhododendron flowers, perfect for summer. This vibrant red drink is packed with antioxidants and was historically used as a natural remedy for high blood pressure.
Kumaoni raita – A tangy, mustard-flavored yogurt side that pairs perfectly with any meal. It’s said that the unique use of mustard seeds in this raita originated from traders who wanted to preserve yogurt for longer periods during their travels.

Also shop for Kumaoni spices (like jambu & jakhiya) at Bada Bazaar to take home some mountain flavors.

Conclusion

Nainital isn’t just about scenic views and chilly weather—it’s a place where every street corner has a story to tell, and every bite is a taste of Kumaoni tradition. Whether you’re savoring the fiery Aloo Ke Gutke, indulging in the rich sweetness of Bal Mithai, or cooling off with a glass of Buransh Sharbat, the food here is as much a part of the experience as the lakes and mountains. So, go beyond the usual touristy snacks, explore the bustling local markets, and eat like a true pahadi. And before you head back, don’t forget to pack some Kumaoni spices from Bada Bazaar—because the best way to relive a trip is through its flavors!