Famous Foods in Ahmedabad You Must Try

Ahmedabad is not only a historic and cultural city but also a food lover’s paradise. If you are visiting or living in Ahmedabad, you must explore its famous foods in Ahmedabad. From street snacks to sweet treats, the city offers a wide variety of flavors that reflect its tradition, history, and warmth.

We understand how important it is to discover the best food in Ahmedabad. That’s why this guide will help you explore some of the most popular dishes. Whether you are a tourist or someone who wants to try new flavors, this article gives you a simple and detailed look at Ahmedabad’s famous foods.

Why Ahmedabad Is Famous for Food?

Ahmedabad’s food is a blend of flavors, textures, and traditions. Being in Gujarat, it follows vegetarian customs with lots of spices, fresh ingredients, and a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Winter special food in Ahmedabad, street food, and sweets make it a must-visit for anyone who loves trying new dishes.

Let’s dive into a curated selection of foods you cannot miss when in Ahmedabad.

Gujarati Snacks – Light, Tasty, and Perfect Anytime

These snacks are mostly enjoyed with tea or as small bites between meals. Many of them are served at homes, street stalls, or snack shops (farsan marts).

Read Also: Best Places to Eat in Ahmedabad: A Simple Guide for Everyone

1. Ganthiya – Soft and Savory Snack

Gathiya is one of the most popular snacks in Gujarat. It is made from gram flour (besan) mixed with spices like turmeric, ajwain (carom seeds), and black pepper. The dough is hand-rolled into thick strips and deep-fried in groundnut oil.

The result is a snack that is soft on the inside and light on the outside. It’s not as crunchy as other fried snacks but has a comforting texture that melts in the mouth.

How to enjoy it:
Gathiya is best eaten with green chutney or paired with hot masala chai, especially on winter evenings or relaxed Sunday mornings. Bhavnagar is famous for its soft gathiya, but you’ll find equally tasty versions in Ahmedabad.

2. Khaman – Fluffy and Mildly Tangy

Khaman is a steamed snack made from fermented chickpea flour. It’s soft, fluffy, and mildly tangy, making it a light option for breakfast or a tea-time snack.

It is often confused with dhokla, but the difference lies in the preparation. Unlike dhokla, khaman doesn’t use rice flour, giving it a more delicate texture.

Popular varieties:

• Vati Dal Khaman – Savory with a hint of spice.
• Nylon Khaman – Soft, sweeter, and melts in the mouth.

How to enjoy it:
Khaman is served with mint chutney, fried chilies, or sweet kadhi. While Surat’s khaman is famous, Ahmedabad offers many flavorful versions available at local shops and food stalls.

3. Patra – Leafy and Spiced Rolls

Patra is a unique and healthy snack made by layering a spiced gram flour paste on colocasia leaves (also known as arbi leaves). The leaves are rolled tightly, steamed, sliced into rounds, and tempered with mustard seeds, green chilies, and oil.

The combination of tangy spices, jaggery sweetness, and the softness of the leaves makes patra a well-balanced snack.

Where to try it:
Bardoli is known for its tasty patra, but it’s widely available in Ahmedabad’s farsan shops. It’s a perfect option for those who want a wholesome snack with subtle flavors.

4. Khandvi – Creamy, Light, and Elegant

Khandvi is a delicate snack made from chickpea flour and yogurt. The mixture is cooked into a smooth paste, spread thin, and rolled into small spirals.

Topped with mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and fresh coriander, it’s a light, refreshing treat that doesn’t feel heavy even when eaten in generous portions.

Where to enjoy it:
Khandvi is served at weddings, festivals, and special gatherings. Its soft texture and subtle flavors make it perfect for people who prefer lighter and less spicy foods.

5. Methi na Gota – Fenugreek Fritters with a Spongy Inside

Methi na Gota are deep-fried fritters made by mixing finely chopped fenugreek leaves into chickpea flour batter seasoned with turmeric, chili powder, and baking soda.

When fried, the outside turns slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and spongy. It’s a comforting snack, especially during rainy or winter days.

How to enjoy it:
It is often served with green chutney or ketchup. While Dakor is famous for its gota, Ahmedabad’s local stalls also offer fresh, flavorful versions.

6. Locho – Soft, Spiced, and Flavorful

Locho is a steamed dish made from gram flour, known for its loose and soft texture – hence the name “locho,” meaning messy or loose.

It’s topped with sev, onions, coriander, butter, and spices that give it bold flavors and textures. Unlike khaman, locho is eaten directly from the plate, making it a fun, hands-on snack.

Where to enjoy it:
Originally from Surat, locho has gained popularity in Ahmedabad as a favorite street food. It’s especially enjoyed as a breakfast item or late-night snack.

7. Cholafari – Flaky, Tangy, and Spicy

Cholafari is a crispy, flaky snack made from rice or gram flour. Spices like chili powder and dry mango powder give it a tangy, spicy kick.

This snack is a festive favorite, especially during Diwali. It’s perfect when paired with a hot cup of tea and makes for a crunchy treat with every bite.

Where to try it:
Though it can be tricky to prepare at home, many farsan shops in Ahmedabad offer expertly crafted cholafari that’s rich in flavor.

8. Ghughra – Crispy Dumplings Filled with Bold Flavors

Ghughra are stuffed dumplings, deep-fried until crispy, with fillings like spicy potato mash. After frying, they are topped with tangy chutneys, peanuts, and sev for added texture.

The contrast between the crispy outer layer and the spicy, soft filling makes ghughra a favorite snack among street food lovers.

Where to enjoy it:
Jamnagar is known for its spicy ghughra, but you can easily find them in Ahmedabad’s evening food markets. It’s a snack full of bold flavors and satisfying textures.

9. Bhajiya – Crunchy and Flavorful Fritters

Bhajiya, also known as pakoras, is a quintessential Gujarati snack. Made from gram flour and fresh vegetables like potato, onion, chili, or spinach, the batter is spiced with turmeric, chili powder, and ajwain (carom seeds) to enhance its flavor. Deep-fried until golden brown, bhajiya is crispy outside yet soft inside, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It is especially popular during the monsoon season and festive evenings, served alongside hot masala chai. Street vendors, home kitchens, and local farsan shops all serve unique variations, sometimes accompanied by tangy tamarind or green chutney, making it a snack locals and tourists cannot resist.

10. Thepla – Spiced Soft Flatbread

Thepla is a soft, flavorful flatbread originating from the Saurashtra and Kutch regions of Gujarat. Made with whole wheat flour, spices, and sometimes fresh methi (fenugreek) leaves, it is rolled thin and cooked on a tawa with minimal oil. Its slightly tangy, mildly spiced flavor makes it a perfect on-the-go food. Thepla stays fresh for hours, which is why it has been traditionally packed for long journeys or picnics. It pairs wonderfully with yogurt, sweet mango pickle, or garlic chutney. In addition to its taste, Thepla is valued for its nutritional content, as methi adds iron and fiber, making it a wholesome snack or meal option.

11. Sev Khamni – Tangy and Crunchy Delight

Sev Khamni is a beloved breakfast and snack item that combines soft crushed khaman with the crunchy texture of sev. Originating from Surat, it’s made by breaking soft khaman into bite-sized pieces, then topping it with crispy sev, finely chopped onions, fresh coriander, and a drizzle of tangy chutney. Some variations also include a hint of sugar or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast. Sev Khamni is light, flavorful, and often enjoyed with a cup of masala chai. It is especially popular during festivals or for morning breakfasts, providing a perfect mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

12. Khakhra (Varieties) – Crispy, Light, and Healthy

Khakhra deserves another mention for its diversity and convenience. Beyond the traditional plain and masala versions, there are methi khakhra, garlic khakhra, and even multi-grain or millet-based khakhras. Its crunchy texture makes it a popular snack at tea time, while its healthy profile appeals to those seeking low-calorie options. Traditionally, khakhra is served with pickle, yogurt, or a dollop of butter, making it a versatile and satisfying snack for all ages.

Gujarati Main Dishes – Hearty, Flavorful, and Nourishing

These dishes are more filling and are usually enjoyed as part of lunch or dinner. They use fresh vegetables, lentils, and spices that give them warmth and richness.

Read Also: Gujarati restaurants in Ahmedabad.

1. Undhiyu – A Winter Special Feast of Vegetables

Undhiyu is one of the most famous and loved dishes in Gujarat, especially during winter. It is a hearty, mixed vegetable dish that is slow-cooked with spices, coconut, and jaggery. The dish gets its name from the Gujarati word “undhu,” meaning “upside down.” Traditionally, it is cooked in an earthen pot buried underground, with fire from above. This slow cooking helps the flavors mix beautifully and makes the vegetables soft and tasty.

The dish uses a variety of seasonal winter vegetables, such as:

• Purple yam (ratalu)
• Potatoes
• Raw bananas (kaccha kela)
• Green beans
• Eggplant (brinjal)

These vegetables are mixed with aromatic spices like coriander, cumin, ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Freshly grated coconut and jaggery are added for sweetness and richness. The slow cooking ensures that every bite is bursting with flavors, with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.

How it’s served:
Undhiyu is often paired with puri and jalebi during the kite festival, Uttarayan. This combination makes for a festive meal that is both satisfying and celebratory. It’s also a great winter dish that warms you up and fills you with comfort.

2. Sev-Tameta nu Shaak – Tangy Tomato Curry with Crunchy Sev

Sev-Tameta nu Shaak is a comforting dish that perfectly blends tangy and sweet flavors. The base is a smooth tomato gravy, cooked with spices such as cumin, turmeric, and a little sugar. The sweetness balances the sharp tanginess of the tomatoes, creating a delightful taste that everyone enjoys.

The dish is topped with sev, which is crispy fried chickpea noodles that add texture and a crunchy contrast to the soft gravy. Some people also garnish it with fresh coriander leaves or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavor.

Where to enjoy it:
This curry is often eaten with bajra rotlo (millet flatbread) or bhakhri, which soak up the flavorful gravy. It’s a simple yet nourishing option for lunch or dinner and is widely loved by families across Gujarat.

3. Tuver na Totha – Spiced Lentils in a Tomato Gravy

Tuver na Totha is a delicious, hearty dish made with tuver dal (pigeon peas), one of the most popular dals in Gujarati cuisine. The dal is simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy that is flavored with warming spices like cumin seeds, turmeric, garlic, and green chilies.

As the lentils cook slowly, they absorb the spices, creating a thick, comforting texture. The flavors are bold but not overpowering, making it ideal for everyday meals.

Serving suggestions:
Tuver na Totha is best served hot with rotis, parathas, or steamed rice. It’s a go-to dish for family dinners or lunch boxes, offering warmth and comfort, especially during colder months.

4. Ringna No Olo – Smoky Roasted Eggplant Mash

Ringna No Olo is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that showcases the smoky aroma of roasted eggplant (brinjal). The eggplant is roasted until the skin chars, and the flesh becomes soft and smoky. It is then mashed and mixed with ingredients like:

• Green chilies
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Mustard seeds
• Fresh coriander

The mixture is seasoned with spices, creating a rustic, hearty dish that is both comforting and aromatic. Though similar to the North Indian baingan bharta, Ringna No Olo has a subtler spice profile, highlighting the natural flavor of the eggplant.

Perfect pairings:
This dish is often enjoyed with bajra rotlo or bhakhri, which complement the soft texture of the mash. It’s particularly popular in winter and makes for a wholesome and warming meal.

5. Dal Dhokli – Comfort in a Bowl

Dal Dhokli is one of Gujarat’s most cherished home-style dishes, often compared to a Gujarati version of pasta in a lentil broth. Soft wheat flour dumplings, called dhokli, are cooked in a spiced lentil gravy made from tuver dal or moong dal. The dal is seasoned with mustard seeds, turmeric, cumin, and sometimes jaggery for a subtle sweetness, giving it a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. A dash of ghee and freshly chopped coriander elevates the dish, making it rich and aromatic. Dal Dhokli is particularly popular during monsoons and winters, providing warmth and comfort. It’s traditionally served hot in a deep bowl, often accompanied by a side of green chilies or papad for added texture.

Ahmedabad Famous Sweet – Treat Your Sweet Tooth

No food journey is complete without sweets. Ahmedabad famous sweet options are rich and delightful.

1. Matho – A Light and Refreshing Dessert

Matho is a delightful dessert made from hung curd (strained yogurt) and fresh seasonal fruits. It is similar to Shrikhand but much lighter in texture. Unlike the thick and creamy Shrikhand, Matho has a thinner consistency, making it perfect for warm weather.

What makes it special:

• It’s naturally probiotic thanks to curd.
• Mixed fruit Matho is especially popular in summer, combining mangoes, pomegranates, and grapes.
• It’s served chilled, offering a refreshing burst of flavor.

Best time to enjoy:
Matho is perfect for hot afternoons or after meals to cool down and aid digestion.

2. Basundi – Creamy, Rich, and Sweet

Basundi is a traditional milk-based dessert made by simmering full-fat milk over low heat until it thickens and caramelizes. The slow cooking process enhances the sweetness and nutty flavors of the milk.

Key ingredients:

• Almonds, pistachios, saffron, and cardamom give it a fragrant aroma.
• Some versions add honey or extra sugar to balance the richness.

How to serve:
Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. It’s often garnished with chopped nuts and served during festivals or special occasions.

3. Keri no Ras (Aamras) – Mango Pulp Bliss

Keri no Ras, also known as Aamras, celebrates the king of fruits – the mango. Fresh Alphonso mangoes are hand-peeled and blended with a little water or milk to create a smooth, sweet pulp.

What makes it unique:

• The natural sweetness of the Alphonso mango is enhanced with saffron, cardamom, and nutmeg.
• It’s a simple yet luxurious dessert that requires minimal preparation but offers maximum satisfaction.

Best time to enjoy:
This is a summer favorite, especially when mangoes are at their peak ripeness.

4. Jalebi – Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistible

Jalebi is one of Gujarat’s most famous sweets, loved for its crunchy exterior and soft, syrupy inside. It is made by pouring fermented batter (usually of flour and yogurt) in circular spirals directly into hot oil. Once fried to golden perfection, the spirals are soaked in sugar syrup, giving them their signature sweetness and shine.

What makes Jalebi special:

• The contrast of crunchy outside and juicy, soft inside creates a unique texture.
• Often enjoyed with fafda for a classic sweet-and-savory combination.
• Commonly served during festivals, weddings, or as a special breakfast treat.

Tips to enjoy:

• Eat freshly made Jalebi for the perfect crispiness.
• Pair it with warm milk or chai for an unforgettable taste experience.
• Try local variations in Ahmedabad, where street vendors make them extra thin and crunchy.

Best time to enjoy:
Jalebi is ideal during festive mornings or winter evenings when its warmth and sweetness offer comfort and delight.

5. Mohanthal – Traditional Gujarati Sweet

Mohanthal is a rich and traditional Gujarati sweet, often prepared during festivals, weddings, and special celebrations. It is made from gram flour (besan), ghee, and sugar, which are cooked together to create a dense, fudgy texture. The mixture is flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sometimes nuts like almonds and pistachios, giving it a fragrant and indulgent taste.

Once cooked, Mohanthal is spread into a tray, allowed to cool, and then cut into small squares or diamonds. Its slightly crumbly yet soft texture makes it perfect for gifting or serving at festive occasions. Mohanthal is not just a dessert; it represents the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat and is a must-try for anyone exploring authentic Gujarati sweets.

Serving Tip: Mohanthal is best enjoyed at room temperature and pairs wonderfully with a cup of masala chai during winter or festive evenings.

6. Handvo – Savory Gujarati Cake

Handvo is one of the famous foods in Ahmedabad and a traditional savory cake made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, often enriched with finely grated vegetables like bottle gourd (lauki). The batter is spiced with ginger, green chilies, sesame seeds, and ajwain to give it a distinct aroma and flavor. It is usually baked or cooked on a stovetop until it develops a golden, crispy crust while remaining soft and moist inside. Handvo is a wholesome snack, perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or as a light meal, and is typically served with tangy chutneys or yogurt. Its unique combination of crunch, spice, and savory goodness makes it a favorite across Gujarat.

7. Ghevar – Festive Round Sweet

Ghevar is a popular dessert and one of the famous foods in Ahmedabad, especially during festivals like Makar Sankranti. Made from refined flour, ghee, and sugar syrup, Ghevar is fried to create a crispy lattice-like texture on the outside while remaining soft inside. Once fried, it is soaked in sugar syrup and garnished with rabri, saffron strands, and chopped nuts like pistachios and almonds. Ghevar is celebrated for its light yet indulgent taste and is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic Gujarati festive sweets.

8. Kaju Katli – Silky Cashew Delight

Kaju Katli is one of the most popular famous foods in Ahmedabad and a classic Gujarati sweet. Made primarily from finely ground cashews and sugar, it has a soft, smooth, and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

• Preparation: Cashews are blended into a fine powder, cooked with sugar syrup to form a pliable dough, and then rolled thin. Each piece is cut into diamond shapes and often garnished with edible silver foil (varak) for a festive look.
• Flavor Profile: Silky, subtly sweet, and rich in nutty flavor. Some variations include saffron or cardamom for an aromatic touch.
• When to enjoy: Perfect for festivals like Diwali, as gifts, or as a treat after meals.

9. Penda / Pedha – Milk-Based Sweet

Penda, also called Pedha, is a classic milk-based sweet that is a staple in Ahmedabad’s sweet shops. It’s made by reducing full-fat milk slowly until it thickens, then adding sugar and cardamom to create a soft, slightly grainy texture.

• Preparation: The milk is simmered for hours to concentrate the flavors. Sugar is added gradually along with cardamom powder, and the mixture is shaped into small round or oval pieces. Some versions include saffron or pistachio toppings.
• Flavor Profile: Soft, creamy, mildly sweet, and aromatic with cardamom. It has a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth texture that appeals to all age groups.
• Where to try: Available in most traditional sweet shops in Ahmedabad and often used in festive celebrations, religious offerings, or gifting.

10. Rajbhog – Festive Stuffed Sweet

Rajbhog is a larger, stuffed version of the classic rasgulla and is considered one of the top famous foods in Ahmedabad. It is soft, spongy, and soaked in sugar syrup, but with a luxurious twist.

• Preparation: The base is made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) kneaded into soft balls. Each ball is stuffed with dry fruits like pistachios, almonds, or saffron strands and then gently boiled in sugar syrup. The final sweet is juicy, aromatic, and indulgent.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, aromatic, and rich with a burst of dry fruits inside. The syrup-soaked exterior complements the nutty filling for a perfect balance of textures.
• When to enjoy: Rajbhog is a festival favorite, ideal for Diwali, weddings, or any celebratory occasion. It’s often served chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Must-Try Non-Traditional but Popular Snacks

Read Also: best non-veg restaurants in Ahmedabad

1. Kutchi Dabeli – Spiced Potato Patty in a Bun

Originally from Kutch and Saurashtra, Kutchi Dabeli has become a popular street snack across Gujarat. A spiced potato filling is stuffed inside a soft bun and topped with a mix of chutneys, onions, coriander, and pomegranate seeds.

Why it stands out:

• The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors creates a unique taste.
• The pomegranate seeds add a refreshing crunch that balances the spices.

Where to try:
It’s widely available at street stalls and markets and is a perfect grab-and-go snack.

2. Amdavadi Vadapav – A Local Take on a Classic

Amdavadi Vadapav is a Gujarati twist on the famous Bombay Vada Pav. The spiced potato vada is pan-seared in butter to give it a crispy golden exterior, and then tucked inside a soft ladi pav.

What makes it special:

• The use of butter adds richness and flavor.
• A combination of chutneys—green, sweet, or tangy—enhances the taste.

Best for:
A quick snack during busy days or evening tea breaks.

3. Sandwich Dhokla – A Creative Twist

Sandwich Dhokla is an innovative version of the traditional steamed Dhokla. The squares are layered with green chutney and sometimes yogurt, stacked, and cut into bite-sized portions.

Why it’s a hit:

• The layers create a burst of flavor with every bite.
• It’s visually appealing and great for parties or gatherings.

Best served with:
A drizzle of chutney or alongside tea.

4. Nadiad nu Puff – Flaky and Fresh

Nadiad nu Puff is a flaky pastry filled with vegetable or paneer stuffing. Though inspired by European baked snacks, this puff has become a beloved Gujarati specialty.

Highlights:

• Made fresh every morning, ensuring quality and taste.
• The flaky layers perfectly balance the soft filling.

Where to try:
Punjab Bakery in Nadiad is a local favorite and a must-visit for snack lovers.

Final Thoughts

Ahmedabad is a city where food connects people. Famous foods in Ahmedabad reflect its culture, festivals, and everyday life. From traditional Gujarati dishes you must try, to Ahmedabad famous snacks and Ahmedabad famous sweet options, every dish offers something unique.

So, whether you are traveling, living here, or just curious, take a moment to explore these flavors. Don’t miss out on tasting the best food in Ahmedabad – it is a flavorful adventure you will never forget!