Top 10 Restaurants in Varanasi

Varanasi, a city steeped in spirituality and history, also boasts of a rich culinary landscape that appeals to both locals and tourists alike. From luxurious dining experiences to cozy cafes, here is a journey through the top 10 restaurants in Varanasi that promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. 

1. Shri Shivaay Restaurant, Varuna Pul

Shri Shivaay is the best thali restaurant in Varanasi, offers an authentic Indian dining experience using Kansa metal, an antibacterial element. The restaurant offers more than 20 dishes in its thali, including welcome drinks, snacks, main course and dessert. The restaurant aims to provide the authentic taste of Indian food without onion and garlic. Shri Shivaay has been awarded the cleanest restaurant in Varanasi by FSSAI, Ministry of Food and Health, Government of India. The restaurant is also known for organizing various events like birthday parties, anniversaries and corporate product launches.

2. Sagar Ratna, Ravidas Gate Lanka 

This South Indian specialty restaurant is located near BHU (Banaras Hindu University) and Ravidas Gate Lanka, Varanasi. It is a recommended place, which offers homely atmosphere and South Indian flavors under one roof but also serves North Indian and Chinese foods in its menu. The menu of this place has traditional South Indian dishes but some must-try dishes are their Rava Masala Dosa Combo, Idli Chaat, Dahi Vada and Filter Coffee. The home delivery service from this outlet is also quite popular among the residents of the area. The dining in the area is air-conditioned. The restaurant serves only vegetarian food and is open every day from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm.

3. Roma’s Cafe Diner, Ravidas Gate Lanka BHU

Established in 2016, Roma Cafe Diner offers a diverse menu of Indian, Italian, Pan-Asian, Continental and Mexican cuisine. It is the best Veg and Non-Veg Restaurant in the Area. The restaurant emphasizes traditional Indian spices, chef recommendations and distinctive Italian dishes. The menu includes flavors of Asian cuisine such as chicken biryani, high-quality ingredients and seasonal items. Roma Cafe Diner prides itself on exceptional customer service and a welcoming atmosphere.

4. Wife on Leave, Fatman Road Maldahiya

For those who want a more unconventional dining experience, Wife on Leave offers a quaint rooftop setting in the bustling Chowk area of ​​Varanasi. Known for its blend of Indian and Chinese flavors, this restaurant offers a lively ambiance with swinging chairs and exciting music. Their menu highlights include butter chicken, chilli potatoes and a unique paan flavoured shake, making it a perfect place to relax in the evening with friends amid vibrant décor and delicious food. 

5. Baati Chokha, Teliabagh

Baati Chokha is a traditional Indian dish from Banaras, featuring baati and chokha. The restaurant offers a variety of combos, including special baati and satto paratha. The restaurant also offers regular food like paneer baati, desi ghee baati, and more. Other dishes include chapati-parathas, rice, and snacks. The restaurant provides authentic taste and atmosphere.

6. Varuna and Chowk Restaurants, Nadesar 

These Restaurants are at Taj Ganges Hotel Located in Nadesar. Taj Ganges Hotel has two iconic dining venues: Varuna and Chowk. Varuna specializes in royal Awadhi cuisine, serving dishes such as Nawabi Gosht and Shahi Tukda that draw on the region’s culinary heritage. Chowk, on the other hand, offers a more eclectic menu featuring international flavours alongside North Indian favourites such as pasta and sandwiches. The combination of excellent food, impeccable service and rolling views of the riverbank ensures a dining experience that is both luxurious and exquisite. 

7. Kashi Chaat Bhandaar, Godowliya

This chaat place, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, offers a variety of street food, including Aloo Tikki, Tamatar Chaat, and Golgappas (Paani Batashe). It’s a popular spot for quick bites after visiting the temple or to satisfy hunger. The shop has been gaining popularity in the Godowlia market since its inception.

8. Brown Bread Bakery, Pandey Ghat

A testament to tradition and taste, Brown Bread Bakery has been a beloved fixture near Godaulia since 1963. Using wood-fired food and time-honored recipes, the bakery continues to delight patrons with its assortment of breads, cookies, and cakes. Their offerings include fruit cakes, butter cookies and award-winning cream rolls, each of which is carefully crafted to preserve the bakery’s legacy of quality and taste. Whether planning a feast or enjoying a leisurely meal, Brown Bread Bakery invites visitors to enjoy a taste of Varanasi’s culinary heritage.

9. Darbhanga Restaurant, Darbhanga Ghat Brijrama Palace

Brijrama Varanasi offers delicious food at the best restaurant in Darbhanga. The restaurant offers a variety of decadent vegetarian dishes prepared by highly trained chefs. The beautiful architectural design of Darbhanga, featuring different colours on the ceilings, complements the aesthetic of the palace hotel, enhancing the culinary journey. The restaurant’s attention to precision and care ensures a memorable dining experience.

10. Itihaas Alley Kitchen, Assi Ghat

Located in a quiet alley, Itihaas Alley Kitchen invites diners to experience the rich flavours of authentic Awadhi cuisine amid traditional surroundings. The restaurant’s menu features a tempting selection of dum biryani, succulent kebabs and aromatic kormas, all prepared to evoke the grandeur of Nawabi food. Enhancing the culinary journey is their in-house Itihaas craft beer, which perfectly complements the taste and ambiance of the restaurant. With its haveli-style interiors, courtyard seating and live music, Itihaas Alley Kitchen offers a dining experience that is filled with history and flavour, ideal for those looking to savour royal Indian cuisine in Varanasi.

The top restaurants in Varanasi reflect not only the cultural diversity of the city but also its culinary evolution. Each dining establishment offers a unique blend of taste, ambiance and hospitality, ensuring that every meal becomes a memorable experience. Whether you are exploring the spiritual wonders of Varanasi or simply indulging in its culinary delights, these 10 restaurants promise to take you on a food journey like no other.