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Welcome to the City Foodie Guide, an exclusive series by Times Foodie where we dive fork-first into the best food experiences in cities across India. With the help of local foodies, bloggers, and experts in their city’s culture, we’re rounding the best places to eat – from hidden street food treasures to the local haunts only insiders know, right up to the historic must-eats that you simply can't miss. Stay tuned for personalised guides that will help you eat better wherever you go.
Surat, the city of diamonds and textiles, offers more than just business opportunities—it’s a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re exploring the bustling food streets or taking a quiet stroll along the Tapi River, Surat’s culinary scene is bound to catch your attention. Known for its rich heritage and legendary street food where no innovation is too extreme, Surat is a place where you're always in for something new.
From the irresistible Surti Locho to the spicy Sev Khamani, the city’s food culture is as diverse as it is delightful. In this vibrant landscape, Surat’s food enthusiasts have taken it upon themselves to guide fellow gourmands through the maze of local delights. Whether you crave the authenticity of street-side vendors or the innovation of fine dining establishments, Surat’s food scene promises something for everyone. We caught up with 5 of Surat's leading food bloggers to learn more about their favourite spots in the city.
Vatsal Jariwala @thefoodiecam
1. What are the must-try street foods every visitor to Surat shouldn't miss?
When it comes to Surat, you're stepping into the paradise of street food lovers! There’s something incredibly vibrant and flavorful about the food culture here, and if you haven’t tried these iconic dishes, you’re missing out on a lot:
● Khawsa: this Burmese-inspired dish is a fusion of noodles, coconut milk, and a tangy-sweet broth. Basically A bowl of creamy goodness. When you are in Surat try “Na-khuda, Rander”
● Aloo Poori: Crispy pooris paired with spicy, tangy potato curry. You’ll find this simple yet flavorful dish on almost every street corner. A must-have for breakfast. I’d recommend Saibath Aloo Poori ( Adajan, Rander, Ambica Niketan, many more branches)
● Rasawala Khaman: Soft khaman dunked in a tangy, flavorful gravy. The spongy texture soaks in all the flavors and leaves you wanting more with every bite, Undoubtedly you should go to Jai Jalaram, Chowk Bazar
● Surti Locho: It’s a soft and savoury delight often topped with chutneys, sev, and onions made from chana dal and spices, Don’t think much just go to Jani Locho & Khaman House, City Light Town
● Cold Coco: After indulging in all that spice, refresh yourself with a glass of Cold Coco! It’s creamy, decadent, and the perfect antidote to the heat of the day, Definitely you should visit the originator of Cold coco, A one Cold Coco, Surat Station
2. What are your go-to hang out spots?
Surat has a range of cool and unique places to chill, perfect for when you want to enjoy great food, coffee, or just a good vibe:
Meraki – The Coffee House
A coffee lover’s paradise, Meraki serves the best brews in Surat. Located in City Light town with two branches in Vesu, this place has a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Whether it’s for a casual meetup or some solo time with a book, Meraki always hits the spot.
Dero by Zero
If you're into contemporary aesthetics and fusion cuisine, Dero by Zero should be on your list. Their cozy interiors and creative menu make it a perfect hangout for a laid-back afternoon or evening catch-up.
Nomads Café X Art
For those who enjoy a mix of art and good food, Nomads Café X Art is an inspiring space. It’s more than just a café; it’s a hub for artists and creatives. The food is excellent, and the vibe is all about good energy and creativity. Don’t miss their live events!
The Boho
With its bohemian-inspired decor and a relaxed atmosphere, The Boho is one of the trendiest spots in town. Their menu features a delightful mix of comfort food and beverages, perfect for those long, chill hangout sessions with friends.
These spots are my personal favourites for when I want to unwind, enjoy great food, and soak in the creative vibes.
3. Are there any hidden gems in Surat that you think deserve more attention?
Mysore Café – Athwagate
One of the oldest and most iconic spots in the city, Mysore Café is where tradition meets taste. If you’re craving authentic South Indian flavours like idli, dosa, and filter kaapi, this place is a must-visit. The vibe here is simple, nostalgic, and always buzzing with regulars.
Hanumante Falooda
Not just any dessert; it’s an experience! This delectable treat combines layers of rose syrup, vermicelli, basil seeds, and a generous scoop of ice cream, all topped with milk and a sprinkle of nuts. What sets Hanumante apart is its unique blend of textures and the perfect balance of sweetness. It’s a refreshing way to cool down, especially after indulging in the spicy street food of Surat
JP Khaman House:
Located on Kailash Nagar Road in the Mahadev Nagar Society of Sagrampura, JP Khaman House is a culinary gem that every food lover should visit. This popular eatery specialises in one of Surat's most beloved snacks: khaman, The khaman here is light, fluffy, and served with tangy green chutney and a sprinkle of sev on top for that perfect crunch. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, they have options to suit every palat
Don’t Miss: If you’re visiting, make sure to pair your khaman with a refreshing drink. It’s the perfect way to complement the flavours and enhance your overall experience.
4. What are some of the most overrated meals you have tried?
While Surat boasts a rich culinary landscape, some meals just don’t live up to the hype. Here are a few that I think are overrated:
1. Avocado Sandwich Street: While avocado is trendy, the sandwiches here often fall flat. They tend to be overpriced for what you get, with mediocre flavor combinations that won’t be satisfactory.
2. Korean Ramen Bowl Street: This place might catch your eye with its unique offerings, but the ramen often lacks authenticity and depth. It can feel more like a quick fix than a satisfying meal, disappointing those craving genuine Korean flavors.
3. Goswami Pani Puri (60 Rs for 6 Pieces): Although pani puri is a beloved street snack, this particular spot is known for its steep prices without the expected quality. Many have found that the taste doesn’t justify the cost, making it a letdown.
4. Fusion Locho in Adajan Street Food: Fusion dishes can be hit or miss, and unfortunately, the fusion locho here tends to be overly experimental without achieving a harmonious flavour. It’s best to stick to the classic versions if you’re looking for a satisfying meal.
These places may be popular, but they might not deliver the culinary experience you're hoping for. Sometimes, it's best to explore the hidden gems that truly represent Surat's vibrant food scene.
5. Which areas of Surat are best for exploring food?
Surat is a culinary treasure trove with diverse flavours and experiences waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the best areas to explore the city’s vibrant food scene:
Rahul Raj Lane: This lively street is a food lover's paradise, featuring dessert carts, healthy snacks, momos, and various other delicious street food items. It's the perfect spot for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth or enjoy a quick, tasty bite while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Khaudra Gali: A hidden gem for street food enthusiasts, Khaudra Gali is famous for its authentic snacks. Be sure to try the vada pav and dabeli, which are favourites among locals. The vibrant atmosphere here adds to the experience!
Dumas: Not only is Dumas Beach a popular hangout spot, but it's also home to some of the best cafes in Surat. Here, you can enjoy a delightful meal or coffee with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. It’s a great place to relax and indulge in a range of food and beverages while enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Each of these areas offers a unique culinary experience, so grab your friends and embark on a delicious food journey through Surat
Sagar Solanki (@tales_of_food_)
1. What are the must-try street foods every visitor to Surat shouldn't miss?
If you’re in Surat, you must try Jani Locho at City Light, Fafda-Jalebi, and Bhajiya at Dumas Beach. These are iconic foods here, and they give you a true taste of Surat’s street food culture.
2. What are your go-to hang out spots?
I like budget-friendly spots with a calm atmosphere where I can relax with friends. One of my favourites is Ginger Ovara. We often parcel our favourite food and beverages and enjoy them there. It’s a great place to chill.
3. Are there any hidden gems in Surat that you think deserve more attention?
Rarely anything can be hidden in surat due to social media, Still some local food places which are in main city area are getting less appreciation compared to new unwanted food dishes.
4. What are some of the most overrated meals you have tried?
I find dishes like Chocolate Samosa, Chocolate Dosa, and Dryfruit Dosa to be quite overrated. They don’t really appeal to me and tend to lose the essence of what makes these dishes so special.
5. Which areas of Surat are best for exploring food?
Khaudhra Gali in Bhagal, Piplod Street in Piplod, and VIP Road in Vesu are excellent spots for exploring Surat’s diverse food scene. You’ll find a wide range of flavours in these areas.
Mayurkumar Vasantlal (@foodie_addicted_)
1. What are the must-try street foods every visitor to Surat shouldn’t miss?
When you’re in Surat, you simply cannot miss Rasawala Khaman, Locho, Khowsuey, Aaloopuri, Tomato Puri, MTB Dry Kachori, Ghari (a sweet delicacy), and Gotala Ice Cream. Each of these dishes offers a unique taste of the city.
2. What are your go-to hangout spots in Surat?
My favourite place to unwind is Dumas Beach. The atmosphere is vibrant, and it’s a great spot to enjoy some good food and take in the beautiful sunset.
3. Are there any hidden gems in Surat that you think deserve more attention?
Absolutely! Chowk Fort is a remarkable place that often gets overlooked. It has a rich history and offers a glimpse into the architectural beauty of Surat.
4. What are some of the most overrated meals you have tried?
I would say Avocado Toast, which can cost around 400 rupees per piece, and street-style parathas priced at 300 rupees each are quite overrated. They don't always live up to the hype, especially when compared to some local delicacies.
5. Which areas of Surat do you think are best for exploring food?
I highly recommend checking out Pal RTO-Adajan, DMD Party Plot in Vesu, and Udhana Darwaja. These areas are bustling with food stalls and restaurants, offering a wide variety of flavours that represent the best of Surat’s culinary scene.
Himashree Desai (@himashreedesai)
1. What are the must-try street foods every visitor to Surat shouldn’t miss?
Visitors to Surat must try Locho, Aloopuri, Khavsa, Khaman, Khamani, Cold Coco, Tomato Bhajiya (Tomato Fritter), Petis, Patti Samosa, and Ghari, which is a delightful mithai. Additionally, Undhiyu, Ubadiyu, and Ponk (which is only available in winter) are fantastic options. Don’t forget to try nankhati and khandvi as well!
2. What are your go-to hang out spots?
I enjoy chilling at some of the local cafés. Surat has a great selection of cafés that offer a wonderful atmosphere to relax and enjoy some good food and coffee.
3. Are there any hidden gems in Surat that you think deserve more attention?
The old city of Surat is rich in history and has a lot to offer in terms of food. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates culinary heritage. Additionally, many people don’t know about MTB Kachori, which is one of my personal favourites.
4. What are some of the most overrated meals you have tried?
I find that anything with an excess of cheese, butter, or mayo tends to be overrated. I also don’t particularly appreciate fusion foods like Oreo Fritters; they often lack the authenticity I enjoy in traditional dishes.
5. Which areas of Surat are best for exploring food?
Every area of Surat has its own charm when it comes to food. It is often said, ‘Surat nu jaman ane kashi nu maran,’ which translates to 'Eat in Surat and die in Kashi for the ultimate experience of the soul.' This perfectly captures the essence of enjoying food in Surat!
Also Read: Mumbai Foodie Guide – 5 Mumbai Bloggers Recommend What And Where To Eat In The City
Kuldeep Shukla (@surat_foodies_chhe)
1. What are the must-try street foods every visitor to Surat shouldn’t miss?
If you’re visiting Surat, you should definitely try Khawsa, Aalo Puri, Khaman, and Dhokla. These are some of the city’s most loved street foods, and they really capture the essence of Surat's vibrant food culture.
2. What are your go-to hang out spots?
I enjoy spending time at Dummas Beach, Sarthana Nature Park, Dandi Beach, Ambaji Temple, and the Flower Garden. These spots are perfect for a relaxed day out and offer a lovely mix of nature and serenity.
3. Are there any hidden gems in Surat that you think deserve more attention?
One place I think deserves more attention is Shree Kismet Kathiyawadi. Everything on their menu is very tasty, and it's a personal favourite of mine. It’s definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Kathiyawadi food.
4. What are some of the most overrated meals you have tried?
I’d say momos. In Surat, you don’t really get nice momos, and they just don’t live up to the standard you’d expect from this dish. Delhi is the better place for good momos.
5. Which areas of Surat are best for exploring food?
Athwagate KP Commerce, Pal RTO, and Khaudra Gali Bhagal are some of the best spots. Aloo Puri, Frankie, and Maggi are the favourites there. Whatever street food you can get in Gujarat, you’ll likely find it in these areas.