Lonavala Food Guide: 8 Must-Try Dishes & Best Places to Eat Near Our Villas

Lonavala, the picturesque hill station nestled between Mumbai and Pune, is not just a haven for nature lovers but also a paradise for food enthusiasts. From local delicacies to international cuisines, here’s your guide to the best places to eat in Lonavala.

1. Best Place for Chikki: Kalekar’s Chikki

No visit to Lonavala is complete without indulging in the famous Chikki. Purohit Chikki, located near Kumar Resorts, is the go-to place for this sweet treat. Known for its traditional recipes and a variety of flavors, from classic peanut Chikki to exotic dry fruit versions, it’s the perfect souvenir to take back home. But if you want a hidden gem, try Kalekar’s Chikki, in the lane next Kotak bank on the main highway, hands down the best chikki we have EVER tried. No this is not a paid promotion, this is our genuine feedback.

2. Best Places for Vada Pav/Bhajiya:

• Shirke Vada Pav: Nestled next to Golden Vada Pav, Shirke serves some of the crispiest and most flavorful Vada Pavs in Lonavala. The perfectly spiced potato filling and crunchy exterior make it a must-try.
• Gupta Vada Pav: Conveniently located near Lonavala Station, Gupta Vada Pav is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying snack. Known for its consistent quality, it’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
• Buvachi Missal: While Buvachi is famous for its Missal, their Vada Pav and Bhajiya are equally delightful. Situated near Fariyas Resorts, it’s an excellent stop for a quick and delicious bite.

3. Best Place for Missal Pav: Buvachi Missal

Buvachi Missal, located near Fariyas Resorts, is the ultimate destination for Missal Pav lovers. Known for its rich and spicy blend of flavors, this dish is served with fresh Pav, creating a perfect balance of heat and tanginess. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Maharashtrian cuisine.

4. Best Place for Maharashtrian Thali: Patil Wada

Located near Mulaqaat Restaurant on the Mumbai-Pune Highway, Patil Wada is the place to be for an authentic Maharashtrian Thali. The homely ambiance combined with traditional flavors makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the local cuisine with our top picks.

5. Best Place for Mutton Thali: Mulaqaat Hotel

For those seeking a hearty Mutton Thali, Mulaqaat Hotel on the Mumbai-Pune Highway is the spot. Known for its rich, flavorful dishes, this restaurant is a go-to for meat lovers looking to indulge in a satisfying meal.

6. Best Place for Fish Thali/Seafood: Malvani Hotel

Seafood enthusiasts should head to Malvani Hotel, located near Mulaqaat Restaurant on the Mumbai-Pune Highway. This spot offers a delightful array of seafood dishes, with their Fish Thali being a standout. The fresh ingredients and traditional Malvani cooking style ensure a memorable dining experience.

7. Best Place for Mughlai Food: Mulaqaat Hotel

Mughlai cuisine, known for its rich and flavorful dishes, is a favorite among many, Mulaqaat tops the list again. The restaurant is on the Mumbai-Pune Highway.

8. Best Places for Chinese:

• Mulaqaat: Located on the main highway, Mulaqaat offers an excellent selection of Chinese dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy or mild, they have something for everyone.
• Salt and Pepper: Situated opposite Rama Krishna, Salt and Pepper is another great spot for Chinese food in Lonavala. The diverse menu and relaxed ambiance make it a popular choice.

9. Best Places for South Indian:

• Rama Krishna: On the main highway, Rama Krishna is renowned for its authentic South Indian cuisine. From crispy dosas to soft idlis, every dish is prepared with traditional flavors in mind.
• Annapurna: Also located on the main highway, Annapurna is a fantastic option for those craving South Indian food. Their breakfast offerings are especially popular among both locals and tourists.

10. Best Places for Continental:

• German Bakery: Located on the main highway, German Bakery is a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse continental menu. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a light snack, they’ve got you covered.
• Anglo Indian Café & Bistro: Situated in Kunegaon near Della, Anglo Indian offers a unique blend of Anglo-Indian and Continental dishes. The serene surroundings add to the dining experience.
• Della Resort: Also in Kunegaon, Della Resort offers top-notch dining with a variety of continental dishes prepared by expert chefs, ensuring a fine dining experience.
• Markaiz: Located in Old Khandala across the railway tracks, Markaiz serves a variety of continental and fusion dishes, along with delectable Parsi cuisine. Though it’s a bit pricey, it’s worth every penny. The owners also run Coopers Fudge, a famous brand in Lonavala near the station, and the dessert counter at Markaiz is not to be missed.

11. Best Places for Pizza:

• Domino’s: Located in Triose Mall, Domino’s is the go-to spot for a quick and satisfying pizza fix. With a variety of toppings and crust options, it’s a reliable choice for pizza lovers.
• Smokin’ Joe’s: Near Kumar Resorts, Smokin’ Joe’s offers a local twist on pizza, with generous toppings and distinct flavors. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for something different from the usual pizza chains.

12. Best Places for Gujarati Food:

• Chandralok: Situated near the Post Office and Bus Stand, Chandralok is a well-known spot for authentic Gujarati cuisine. Their thalis are packed with traditional flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Gujarati Sanstha: Located on Gold Valley Road in Tungarli, Gujarati Sanstha offers another excellent option for those craving a traditional Gujarati meal. The simple yet flavorful dishes make it a must-visit.

13. Best Place for Rajasthani/Sattvik Food: Narayani Dham Temple

For a wholesome and affordable meal, Narayani Dham Temple is the place to be. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner at extremely reasonable prices. For just ₹150 per person, you can enjoy unlimited food, but make sure to buy your meal coupon at least 3 hours in advance as only cash is accepted. The food is delicious and highly recommended for those looking to experience simple yet flavorful Rajasthani/Sattvik cuisine.

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Lonavala’s diverse culinary scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for local street food or a fine dining experience, this guide will help you find the best spots to satisfy your cravings. Happy eating!