Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), a historic city in Uttar Pradesh, is not just renowned for the Sangam and Kumbh Mela, but also for its rich and diverse street food culture. From spicy chaats to traditional sweets, the streets of Prayagraj are brimming with local delicacies that reflect its vibrant culinary heritage. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 5 street foods to try in Prayagraj, complete with specific locations and authentic flavour profiles.
1. Netram’s Kachori Sabzi – Iconic Breakfast Street Food in Prayagraj
Location: Netram Kachori Bhandar, Loknath Lane, Chowk
Netram’s Kachori Sabzi is nothing short of a culinary institution in Prayagraj. Served piping hot from early morning, the urad dal-stuffed kachoris are deep-fried until golden brown and served with a generous helping of spicy, tangy aloo sabzi. The sabzi is cooked in a thick tomato and asafoetida-based gravy, often garnished with green chillies for an added kick.
Locals throng this 100-year-old eatery not just for its taste but for the nostalgic experience it offers. Pair your plate with a glass of fresh jaljeera or lassi for a perfect start to your Prayagraj morning.
2. Loknath Gali’s Tamatar Chaat – Best Tangy Chaat in Prayagraj’s Old City
Location: Loknath Gali, near Hanuman Mandir, Chowk area
A visit to Prayagraj is incomplete without trying the unique Tamatar Chaat in the bustling lanes of Loknath Gali. Unlike typical chaats found elsewhere, this version uses cooked and mashed tomatoes sautéed with ghee, green chillies, crushed boiled potatoes, and a secret blend of masalas. The mixture is topped with crushed namak pare, coriander, and lemon juice before serving.
This dish is known for its sweet, spicy, and tangy balance—served hot, which is rare in the chaat category. It is particularly popular in the winter months when the warmth of the dish complements the weather.
3. Rambabu Ke Pakode – Rainy Season Favourite Street Snack in Prayagraj
Location: Rambabu Pakoda Bhandar, Muthiganj
For those who crave something crispy and deep-fried, Rambabu ke Pakode are an absolute must-try. This humble shop has been delighting locals for decades with a variety of pakoras made from seasonal vegetables, paneer, and even lotus stem (kamal kakdi).
Their standout item is the aloo pakoda, thinly sliced potatoes dipped in gram flour batter and fried till crisp, served with tangy tamarind and spicy mint chutneys. What sets this place apart is the use of mustard oil and traditional spices, which gives the pakoras a bold flavour.
4. Hira Halwai’s Imarti – Traditional Sweet Street Food in Prayagraj
Location: Hira Halwai, Katra
Imarti is Prayagraj’s answer to jalebi—but richer, denser, and more indulgent. Made from urad dal batter, piped into intricate circular designs, deep-fried in ghee, and soaked in sugar syrup, this sweet is a festive staple and a daily favourite alike.
Hira Halwai, operating since the British era, is the most famous place to get freshly made imartis. Served hot, they have a crisp outer layer and a syrupy inside that melts in your mouth. Locals often pair it with rabri for an elevated dessert experience.
5. Civil Lines’ Litti Chokha – Bihari-Influenced Street Food in Prayagraj
Location: Various stalls near PVR Vinayak Mall, Civil Lines
Prayagraj, being close to Bihar, proudly embraces Litti Chokha as part of its street food identity. You’ll find bustling stalls in Civil Lines selling freshly roasted littis—wheat flour balls stuffed with spiced sattu (roasted gram flour), ghee, and ajwain.
The littis are roasted over cow dung cakes or charcoal for a smoky flavour and served with aloo, baingan, and tomato chokha, a rustic mash cooked with mustard oil, garlic, and chillies. Vendors often top the dish with a ladle of desi ghee for an added richness.
What makes Prayagraj street food unique is its fusion of Awadhi, Mughlai, and Bihari influences, local spices, and the authenticity preserved by generations of vendors. The old city lanes, especially in Chowk, Loknath Gali, and Katra, offer a street food experience that is deeply rooted in culture and flavour.
Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, indulging in these top 5 street foods in Prayagraj will give you an unforgettable taste of this historic city.