Foodie's Delight: A Guide To Eating Through Agra

Historically, Agra has held an important place in the geopolitical map of India. Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, it was once the capital of the erstwhile Mughal dynasty. The everlasting influence of these rulers has shaped the artistic, historical and cultural landscape of the city. All these influences have further governed the culinary topography of the space and over the years the local delicacies of Agra have emerged to hold a place in the hearts of true-blue foodies. We bring to you a guide to explore the popular haunts of the city:

Bedai- Jalebi- No food guide for the city can be thought of without taking into account the popular breakfast that is Bedai Jalebi. What Chole Bhature is to the people of Delhi, Bedai is for the people of Agra. It is vastly different from the popular Bedmi Poori on offer in the capital. The Bedai is essentially a kachori made of black lentils, served with a spicy potato curry. To offset the spiciness of the dish, the meal is traditionally followed by a serving of Jalebi, arguably one of the continent’s most loved desserts.

The most popular joint for trying this delicacy is Deviram Sweets, one of the oldest sweet shops in Agra. The shop is open all day but Bedai is served from 9 am to 2pm.

Address: Deviram Sweets, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Pratap Pura, Agra 282001 India
Cost for two: INR 30

Panchhi Petha: Famous the world over, Petha is an Indian sweet made of white pumpkin. It can only be found in Agra. The sweet first originated in Agra, when a family started its production in their factories. The family then also became its seller, establishing the most famous outlet known as Panchhi Petha. Since then, numerous duplicate shops have popped up all over the city but an authentic taste of the sweetmeat can only be found here.

Over the years, the varieties of Petha on offer have also evolved and now they can be found in different flavours such as chocolate petha, paan petha, angoori petha and much more.

Address: 855A, Fatehpur Sikri Rd, Naulakha, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001
Cost for two: INR 320 to 500

Mama Franky: This is the most beloved Franky shop in the city, serving frankies that have captured the hearts of the city’s residents. They are famous for serving the best non-vegetarian fast food in the city and their bestsellers include Double Chicken roll, Double Egg Double Chicken Roll, Paneer Kathi Roll as well as chicken and mutton seekh kebabs. It is popular as a late night eatery, with the rolls serving as the perfect companion to your late night drives.

Address: Shopping Arcade, A-17, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001

Cost for two: INR 400-600

Ram Babu Paranthe Wale:  This parantha joint is one of the oldest in the city, and it is also located in the older areas of the city. Ram Babu Paranthe Waale are famed for serving thick parathas doused in ghee and served with a variety of chutneys and curries, rivalling Old Delhi’s Paranthe Waale Gali. One plate is sufficient for two individuals. The joint also takes orders for catering as well as packaged pickles, so you can take back a taste of the city for you.

Address: 6/127, Belanganj, Civil Lines, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282004

Chaat Gali, Sadar Bazaar: From lip smacking Dahi Bhallas to piping hot Pav Bhaji, from spicy gol gappe to crispy cheelas, the street food lane, also locally known as Chaat Gali, is famous for serving the most delicious but cheap street side fare. It is the go to place for local residents, who crowd the streets of Sadar Bazaar to shop for shoes, clothes, books and magazines, appliances and groceries. It is the one stop arcade for all your needs and additionally serves the best street food in town, making it a much loved hot spot for everyone around the city and a must visit for everyone who visits Agra.

Address: Chaat Gali, Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt, Idgah Colony, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001

Cost for two: INR 150