A Srinagar food tour is a delightful journey through the rich culinary traditions of Kashmir. The region’s food is known for its unique flavors, aromatic spices, and a mix of Mughal and Persian influences. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy a mouthwatering food tour of Srinagar:

1. Kashmiri Wazwan

• What to try: The Wazwan is the pinnacle of Kashmiri cuisine, a traditional feast that includes a wide array of dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Rista, Yakhni, Tabakh Maaz, and more.
• Where to go: Many local restaurants and eateries in Srinagar specialize in Wazwan, including places like Ahdoos Restaurant, Shamyana Restaurant, and Kashmiri Wazwan at Mughal Darbar.

2. Kahwa

• What to try: A warm, fragrant green tea with saffron, almonds, and spices, Kahwa is a soothing drink often served with a mix of dried fruits or sweets.
• Where to go: Srinagar’s tea stalls, especially around Dal Lake, serve this drink in traditional copper cups.

3. Rogan Josh

• What to try: This slow-cooked lamb dish is a rich red curry with a blend of spices like Kashmiri red chili, fennel, and ginger.
• Where to go: It’s commonly found in Wazwan feasts or served at local eateries like Nawab’s Café or Lal Chowk restaurants.

4. Dum Aloo

• What to try: Baby potatoes cooked in a rich, spicy gravy, Dum Aloo is a hearty vegetarian dish often served with rice.
• Where to go: Shamyana Restaurant and many small eateries serve this dish, giving it their unique touch.

5. Gushtaba

• What to try: Gushtaba consists of minced meat balls cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy of yogurt and spices. It’s often served as part of a traditional Wazwan meal.
• Where to go: This dish can be found in most Kashmiri cuisine spots like Ahdoos Restaurant or Mughal Darbar.

6. Seekh Kebabs

• What to try: These grilled skewers of minced meat, flavored with spices and herbs, are a perfect appetizer or snack.
• Where to go: Try Shahbaaz Grill or Nawab’s Café for a delicious serving of Seekh Kebabs.

7. Kashmiri Pulao

• What to try: A sweet and savory rice dish made with dry fruits, saffron, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom.
• Where to go: Available in most local restaurants and popular Wazwan spots.

8. Kashmiri Naan

• What to try: Soft, pillowy naan breads stuffed with dry fruits or plain, perfect for dipping into the gravies of Wazwan dishes.
• Where to go: This can be found in any Kashmiri restaurant or bakery like Shawarma & Bakery.

9. Kashmiri Sweets:

• What to try:
  • Baklava (layers of thin pastry with nuts and syrup)
  • Firni (a creamy rice pudding)
  • Shufta (a dessert made with nuts and dry fruits)
  • Kesar Kulfi (saffron-flavored ice cream)
• Where to go: Srinagar’s bakeries and sweet shops like Mughal Sweets or Kashmir Shakti Sweets are perfect spots for these indulgent treats.

10. Street Food

• What to try: Don’t miss out on local street food, including Samosas, Kashmiri Chaat, and Aloo Tikki.
• Where to go: Lal Chowk and Zaina Kadal are bustling with food stalls and vendors.

Best Food Tour Itinerary

1. Morning: Start with a Kahwa at a lakeside café and Kashmiri Sweets for breakfast.
2. Mid-morning: Visit a local restaurant to try Rogan Josh or Seekh Kebabs.
3. Lunch: Head to a Wazwan restaurant for a full course meal of Gushtaba, Rista, and Dum Aloo.
4. Afternoon: Try Kashmiri Pulao or Shufta at a popular eatery.
5. Evening: Have a light Kashmiri Chaat or Aloo Tikki as a snack, finishing off with a Kesar Kulfi.

Tips for Enjoying Your Food Tour:

Eat like a local: Remember that meals are typically shared, and it’s all about community.

Be adventurous: Don’t miss out on trying the full Wazwan experience.