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Food is an integral part of any journey and Bhopal with its rich history and cultural heritage is a culinary delight for both the soul and the senses. This World Tourism Day step into the heart of Bhopal’s culinary legacy by visiting its old restaurants. These are not just places to eat; they are landmarks that tell the story of Bhopal’s Nawabi past and its Mughlai, Peshawari and street food culture. Famous for keema, biryani, kebabs and traditional sweets these restaurants have been serving locals and tourists for decades and not just food but a piece of history.
From the narrow lanes of Old Bhopal to the newer areas each restaurant has its own story, recipe and flavour profile. Many of these restaurants have passed down secret family recipes through generations and kept the city’s culinary traditions alive. Whether you are craving smoky kebabs, aromatic curries or sweet treats like jalebis and malpua Bhopal’s iconic food joints have a lot to offer.
Image Credit: Freepik
As you explore the city’s architecture and landmarks make sure to taste the history served at these timeless restaurants. It’s a journey you will never forget!
Indian Coffee House
- Price for 2: ₹300
- Timing: 9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Best Selling: Masala Dosa, Filter Coffee
- Cuisine: South Indian, Snacks
- Veg/Non-Veg: Veg
Located in the heart of New Market, Indian Coffee House has been Bhopal’s cultural hot spot since 1957. With its old-school decor, this place is super relaxed and nostalgic. Budget-friendly South Indian food and legendary filter coffee is what makes it a favourite among students, intellectuals and locals.
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Jameel Hotel
- Price for 2: ₹500
- Timing: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Best Selling: Mutton Nihari, Biryani
- Cuisine: Mughlai
- Veg/Non-Veg: Non-Veg
Located in the bylanes of Itwara, Jameel Hotel has been serving Mughlai food for over 50 years. Old school decor, simple seating and the smoky aroma from the kitchen will transport you to the era of Nawabs. Mutton nihari and biryani are the crowd favourites here and people keep coming back for decades.
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Manohar Dairy and Restaurant
- Price for 2: ₹400
- Timing: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Best Selling: Chole Bhature, Rajma Rice
- Cuisine: North Indian, Snacks
- Veg/Non-Veg: Veg
A Hamidia Road institution since 1970, Manohar Dairy is famous for North Indian sweets. Bright and lively, it is a family favourite for meals and desserts. Chole bhature and rajma rice are household names.
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Haji Lassiwala
- Price for 2: ₹150
- Timing: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Best Selling: Lassi, Shahi Tukda
- Cuisine: Snacks, Desserts
- Veg/Non-Veg: Veg
In the heart of Old Bhopal since the 1960s, Haji Lassiwala has been cooling the city for years. Famous for its creamy lassi and shahi tukda, this small shop is perfect for a break after walking the historic streets of Bhopal.
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Bapu Ki Kutia
- Price for 2: ₹350
- Timing: 9:00 AM - 10:30 PM
- Best Selling: Dal Tadka, Paneer Butter Masala
- Cuisine: North Indian, Snacks
- Veg/Non-Veg: Veg
Near Chowk Bazaar, Bapu Ki Kutia has been serving vegetarian meals since the 1970s. Simple and warm, it’s a great place for a North Indian meal. Try their dal tadka and paneer butter masala.
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Jehan Numa Palace’s Shahnama
- Price for 2: ₹2500
- Timing: 12:30 PM - 11:00 PM
- Best Selling: Mutton Rogan Josh, Peshawari Naan
- Cuisine: Mughlai, Continental
- Veg/Non-Veg: Non-Veg
In the luxurious Jehan Numa Palace, Shahnama has been serving fine dining since the 1980s. The royal atmosphere and Mughlai and Continental cuisine make it a luxurious experience. Famous for its authentic Mutton Rogan Josh, it’s a great place for special occasions.
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Zam Zam Fast Food
- Price for 2: ₹300
- Timing: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Best Selling: Chicken Shawarma, Biryani
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Indian
- Veg/Non-Veg: Non-Veg
Near Shahjahanabad, Zam Zam has been serving Middle Eastern and Indian fusion food since the early 1990s. The street-side atmosphere is perfect for quick and tasty food. Try their chicken shawarma and biryani for a delicious meal.
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Kwality Restaurant
- Price for 2: ₹1000
- Timing: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Best Selling: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani
- Cuisine: North Indian, Chinese
- Veg/Non-Veg: Non-Veg
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Since the 1980s, Kwality Restaurant in New Market has been a comfort food institution. The old-school interiors will take you back in time. Their butter chicken and dal makhani have been loved by many for years, so it is a local and tourist favourite.
Conclusion:
Bhopal’s food scene is a reflection of its history and has flavours that have endured. Whether you are a vegetarian or a Mughlai foodie, these old restaurants have something for everyone. Each one has a story to tell, from the iconic Indian Coffee House where intellectuals would meet to the luxurious Shahnama where you would be treated like a king. Next time you are in Bhopal, do visit these old restaurants and taste the city’s history.
