Visitors to Patan, Gujarat, should not miss the opportunity to indulge in the city’s unique blend of vegetarian Gujarati cuisine, vibrant snacks, and delightful sweets that reflect its centuries-old cultural heritage and local flavors. Here are the top 10 foods to try in Patan, along with all the essential details for a memorable culinary experience.
1. Khaman
Khaman is a spongy, steamed cake made from gram flour (besan), flavored with lemon juice, mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and served with chutneys. Visit Patel Khaman House or Namkin shops for the freshest experience. Price ranges from ₹200-₹500 for a sizable plate.
2. Thepla
This staple Gujarati flatbread combines wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, and assorted spices, making it ideal for breakfast or travel food. It is served hot with pickles or yogurt. Honest Restaurant in Patan is known for its delicious Thepla, averaging around ₹350 for two people.
3. Dhokla
Dhokla is Gujarat’s pride—a steamed savory cake of fermented rice and chickpea flour, topped with a tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves. It is best enjoyed with mint or coriander chutney.
4. Patra
Patra is made from colocasia leaves smeared with a tangy gram flour paste, rolled, steamed, sliced, and then tempered. This dish is both healthy and full of flavor.
5. Farsan (Namkeen Snacks)
Farsan refers to an assortment of crunchy savory snacks—such as Fafda, Ganthiya, and Chana Jor Garam—popular for munching and as meal accompaniments. Zeel Khamni Point is a recommended spot to try various Farsan; a snack meal for two can cost ₹200-₹400.
6. Kathiyawadi Dal-Bati
A rich, hearty meal of baked wheat balls (bati) dunked in spicy Kathiyawadi dal, featuring robust, warming flavors, is a must at local bhojanalayas.
7. Dabeli
A spicy and flavorful street food “burger”, Dabeli consists of spicy potato filling inside a toasted bun topped with pomegranate, peanuts, and sev. Best enjoyed from street vendors in Patan’s bustling markets.
8. Pani Puri and Chaat
Patan’s street food scene is alive with pani puri (crispy shells filled with tangy water) and a variety of chaats like bhel puri and papdi chaat. Local favorites include Deena Chaat Bhandar and Shyamji Chole Bhature.
9. Devada
Devada is a traditional Patan sweet made from wheat flour and jaggery, prepared especially during festive seasons and enjoyed by locals. Ask for Devada at any reputed sweet shop like Nilkanth Sweet & Farsan Mart.
10. Ice-cream and Dairy Delicacies
Don’t miss trying local ice-creams, fresh lassi, and dairy sweets from Bharkadevi Ice-cream or Karnavati Dairy for a cool treat after a day of sightseeing.
Key Restaurant Recommendations
- Asopalav Restaurant (Indian, best quality food and service)
- Kalapi (Indian, good for parking, family dining)
- Patel Khaman House and Namkin Shop (for authentic khaman)
- Honest Restaurant (for popular thepla and Gujarati thali)
- Zeel Khamni Point (for farsan variety)
- Bharkadevi Ice-cream and Karnavati Dairy (for dairy sweets and ice cream).
Practical Details for Tourists
- Most dishes are vegetarian, affordable, and widely available across Patan’s eateries.
- From street food vendors to established restaurants, hygiene standards vary—look for popular spots with high footfall for fresher food.
- Local snacks and sweets are excellent gifts or edible souvenirs from Patan.