Surat’s food culture grew around markets, festivals, and seasons. Winter brings fresh jowar and rich vegetable casseroles, while festivals bring sweets made with ghee and dry fruits. With much of Surat’s cuisine centred on fresh vegetarian ingredients, every meal feels wholesome and satisfies both heart and stomach.
Old recipes stay alive here too. Dotivala Bakers, for example, has baked its famous batasa and ghee nankhatai at the same location since 1775. Tea time in Surat has a real history.
Let us start with the classics.
1. Locho
Locho is a thick, soft, paste-like cousin of khaman. The Gujarati word means “botched up,” and it was created by accident during a steaming mishap at Gopal Khaman House. Locho is usually served with chutney and sev, and some shops even offer Schezwan or Italian versions. It is a perfect first stop for Surat's famous street food.
2. Sev Khamani
This breakfast and snack favourite is a must-try. Chana dal is flavoured with ginger, sugar, chillies, garlic, and pepper, then topped with crunchy sev. It is light, tangy, and a little sweet, all at once.
3. Ponk
Ponk is a winter treat made of tender green jowar grown near Hazira. Stalls in Adajan roast bundles in mud ovens, and vendors separate the grain right in front of you. If you visit in winter, do not skip it.
4. Undhiyu
Undhiyu is a slow-cooked vegetable dish that fills the table in the cold months. A local thali version combines papdi, potatoes, sweet potatoes, kand, brinjal, and bananas, spiced with green garlic, chillies, coconut, and coriander. It is rich, earthy, and best shared with family.
5. Bhajiya
Surat loves its fritters. Aloo, onion, chilli, ratalu, and tomato bhajiyas are among the most popular choices, with stalls around ISKCON Mall serving these crispy favourites. Another favourite is Lashkari tomato bhajiya, made with tomato pieces dipped in besan and deep-fried.
6. Ghari
No Surat food list is complete without ghari. Made with ghee and a dry-fruit filling, this sweet is especially popular at festivals. A shop in Chauta Bazaar, open since 1899, is known for its kesar badam pista version.
If you want vegetarian dishes with a more contemporary twist, The House of Makeba, Surat brings a fresh take to the table. Its fully vegetarian menu blends global flavours with familiar Indian influences, creating dishes that feel both inventive and comforting.
7. Nachos Papdi Chaat Board
The chaat is one of The House of Makeba's signature picks. As the name suggests, it brings together two beloved snacks, crisp nachos and papdi chaat, on one board. It is easy to share, which makes it a lovely start for a group.
8. Shahi Paneer Kofta in Silk Gravy
The dish brings together soft, delicately prepared paneer koftas and a rich, creamy gravy. Infused with aromatic spices and a touch of royal indulgence, every bite offers a smooth blend of flavours. It is a comforting North Indian favourite, perfect for those who enjoy rich and flavourful curries.
9. Khow Suey Soup
A warm bowl on a cool evening feels wonderful, and Khow Suey Soup is another signature dish at The House of Makeba. It is a great choice when you want something comforting before the main course.
10. Dahi Ricotta Kebab
Dahi Ricotta Kebab is a soft, melt-in-the-mouth appetiser that brings together the creamy richness of ricotta and the gentle tang of yoghurt. Lightly seasoned with aromatic spices and cooked to a delicate golden finish, each bite offers a lovely balance of creamy and savoury flavours. A delightful starter for anyone who enjoys subtle, well-balanced tastes.
