Top 10 Restaurants in Punjab

1. Kesar Da Dhaba, Amritsar

Located in the heart of Amritsar, Kesar Da Dhaba is an iconic eatery that has been serving delectable Punjabi food since 1916. This dhaba (traditional roadside eatery) is famous for its Dal Makhni, a rich and creamy lentil dish, and the fluffy tandoori parathas dripping with butter. The dhaba's rustic charm and the old-world vibe add to the overall dining experience. A meal here is incomplete without trying their phirni, a creamy rice dessert.

2. Haveli, Jalandhar

Haveli offers not just food but a wholesome cultural experience. Styled like a traditional Punjabi village, this themed restaurant in Jalandhar is perfect for families and tourists looking to taste authentic Punjabi food in a vibrant ambiance. With a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, Haveli’s makki di roti and sarson da saag, butter chicken, and tandoori kebabs are particularly popular. The folk performances and cultural décor make dining here an immersive experience.

3. Chawla’s Chicken, Ludhiana

If you're a chicken lover, Chawla’s Chicken in Ludhiana is a must-visit. Known for its signature Cream Chicken, Chawla’s has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dish is a unique blend of butter, cream, and mild spices, creating a creamy gravy that pairs perfectly with tandoori roti or naan. Besides their famous cream chicken, their tandoori items and fish tikka are also crowd-pullers.

4. Amritsari Kulcha Land, Amritsar

For those looking to indulge in the ultimate street food experience, Amritsari Kulcha Land is the place to be. As the name suggests, this eatery specializes in Amritsari Kulcha, a type of stuffed bread, typically filled with spiced potatoes or paneer and baked in a tandoor. Served hot with a side of tangy chole (chickpea curry) and chutney, the kulchas here are legendary. The crispy exterior and the flavorful filling make this a must-try spot for every food lover visiting Amritsar.

5. Pal Dhaba, Chandigarh

Pal Dhaba is a beloved establishment in Chandigarh, frequented by both locals and tourists. It's known for its simple, no-frills ambiance and lip-smacking non-vegetarian dishes, especially the butter chicken and mutton curry. The food is rich and hearty, reflecting the essence of traditional Punjabi cuisine. The tandoori rotis served with these curries are perfect for soaking up every bit of the spicy, flavorful gravy.

6. Punjabi Dhaba, Pathankot

A quintessential stopover for travelers, Punjabi Dhaba in Pathankot serves authentic, home-style Punjabi food. Whether you’re looking for dal tadka, kadhi pakora, or a flavorful chicken curry, this place has it all. Their tandoori items, such as chicken and paneer tikka, are grilled to perfection, providing the perfect balance of smokiness and spice. The cozy environment and swift service make this a favorite pit stop for road trippers.

7. Beera Chicken House, Amritsar

Beera Chicken House is a legendary name when it comes to tandoori chicken in Punjab. Located in Amritsar, this small eatery is famous for its perfectly grilled tandoori chicken, marinated with a unique blend of spices and cooked over a traditional coal fire. It’s juicy, flavorful, and a perfect example of the smoky, spicy flavors of Punjabi cuisine. Pair it with their rumali rotis or simply enjoy it as a snack – either way, it’s an unforgettable experience.

8. Giani Dhaba, Dharampur

Although technically located in Dharampur, a few hours away from the main cities of Punjab, Giani Dhaba is a popular stop for those traveling to or from Himachal Pradesh. Its reputation for serving fresh, authentic Punjabi food precedes it. Known for its vegetarian options, this dhaba is particularly famous for its rajma chawal (kidney beans with rice) and paneer dishes. The picturesque surroundings add to the charm of the experience.

9. Rangla Punjab, Jalandhar

Rangla Punjab is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural village that celebrates everything Punjabi. Located within the premises of Haveli, this place recreates the rural lifestyle of Punjab with its mud houses, traditional performances, and folk music. The food served is as authentic as it gets, with highlights including sarson da saag, makki di roti, and the indulgent Punjabi thali. If you want to experience Punjabi culture along with the cuisine, this is the perfect place to dine.

10. Baba's Chicken, Ludhiana

Baba’s Chicken has gained popularity across Punjab for its delectable butter chicken and tandoori dishes. With multiple outlets in Ludhiana and other cities, this restaurant is a go-to spot for foodies looking for quality, flavorful chicken dishes. The butter chicken here is rich, creamy, and packed with spices, offering the perfect blend of tanginess and sweetness. Their biryanis and mutton rogan josh are also highly recommended.