Here’s a detailed and complete guide on the Top 10 Foods to Try in Parbhani, perfect for any tourist or new visitor who wants to explore the authentic taste of this culturally rich city in Maharashtra.
1. Misal Pav
A must-try Maharashtrian delicacy, Misal Pav is a spicy curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan, onions, and lemon, served with pav (bread). In Parbhani, you’ll find several eateries offering a more local version, often spicier and rich in flavor.
Best Places to Try: Hotel Vrindavan, Sai Misal Centre, and local stalls near Gandhi Chowk.
2. Bhakri and Thecha
A traditional rural meal combination, Bhakri (a flatbread made from jowar or bajra) pairs beautifully with Thecha — a fiery chutney made of green chilies, garlic, and peanuts. This simple yet powerful dish reflects the true essence of rural Marathwada.
Best Places to Try: Highway Dhabas on Parbhani–Jintur Road or family-run local eateries.
3. Pithla Bhakri
Pithla (a gram flour curry) served with Bhakri is comfort food for many locals. It’s a wholesome, protein-rich, and flavorful meal best enjoyed with spicy chutney, curd, and onions.
Best Places to Try: Local dhabas around Gangakhed Road and near Parbhani Bus Stand.
4. Vada Pav
Known as the “Indian Burger,” Vada Pav is a deep-fried potato fritter sandwiched between bread, served with chutneys and fried green chilies. Parbhani offers a distinct, crispier version.
Best Places to Try: Vada Pav stalls near Natraj Talkies and Parbhani Railway Station.
5. Zunka Bhakri
Another traditional Marathwada staple, Zunka is a spicy gram flour preparation similar to Pithla, often served with Bhakri, onions, and chutney. It’s a filling and rustic dish popular among travelers and locals alike.
Best Places to Try: Roadside eateries near Jintur Naka and rural highway joints.
6. Sabudana Khichdi
A light yet fulfilling dish made from soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices, Sabudana Khichdi is a go-to breakfast or fasting food. In Parbhani, it’s served with curd and lemon.
Best Places to Try: Shree Krishna Snacks Corner and Shivaji Nagar local joints.
7. Poha
Poha is a staple breakfast item across Maharashtra, and Parbhani’s version often includes peanuts, onions, lemon juice, and farsan topping. It’s flavorful, light, and easily available in morning markets.
Best Places to Try: Poha stalls at Gandhi Maidan and near Shani Mandir.
8. Samosa and Kachori
A popular tea-time snack in Parbhani, Samosas are crisp, spicy, and often paired with tangy tamarind chutney. Kachoris stuffed with spicy dal or onion mixture are equally loved.
Best Places to Try: Vijay Sweets and local stalls near Parbhani City Market.
9. Basundi
This rich dessert made by slow-cooking milk until thickened, flavored with cardamom and nuts, is a festive favorite in Parbhani. Locals often enjoy it during celebrations or after meals.
Best Places to Try: Anand Sweets, Hotel Ganraj, and local sweet shops.
10. Shrikhand
A creamy, sweet yogurt-based dessert flavored with saffron and cardamom, Shrikhand represents the sweet side of Maharashtrian cuisine. Parbhani’s local dairies serve fresh homemade versions.
Best Places to Try: Dairy outlets around Jintur Road and Shivaji Nagar.
Local Food Tips for Tourists
- Best Time to Eat: Early mornings for Poha and Misal Pav; evenings for snacks like Vada Pav and Samosa.
- Budget Range: ₹50–₹250 per meal for most local eateries.
- Local Drinks: Try Masala Chaas and Sugarcane Juice to beat the heat.
- Cultural Tip: Parbhani’s food is slightly spicier than other regions; request mild versions if needed.
Summary Table
| Food Item | Type | Must-Try Places | Approx. Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Misal Pav | Breakfast | Gandhi Chowk, Hotel Vrindavan | 60–80 |
| Bhakri and Thecha | Lunch | Highway Dhabas | 80–120 |
| Pithla Bhakri | Lunch/Dinner | Gangakhed Road | 70–100 |
| Vada Pav | Snack | Near Natraj Talkies | 20–40 |
| Zunka Bhakri | Lunch | Jintur Naka | 70–100 |
| Sabudana Khichdi | Breakfast | Shivaji Nagar | 50–80 |
| Poha | Breakfast | Gandhi Maidan | 30–50 |
| Samosa and Kachori | Snack | City Market | 20–40 |
| Basundi | Dessert | Anand Sweets | 80–120 |
| Shrikhand | Dessert | Jintur Road | 100–150 |
Experience Parbhani’s Culinary Heritage
Food in Parbhani beautifully reflects the flavors of Marathwada — simple, spicy, and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying a hot Bhakri meal at a roadside dhaba or tasting sweets from a local shop, every bite tells a story of tradition and warmth.