Satara, located in western Maharashtra, is known for its rich Maratha food culture, spicy gravies, fresh farm produce, and simple village-style cooking. Whether you are a tourist, business traveler, or first-time visitor, this guide covers everything you must eat in Satara, so you won’t need to look anywhere else.
1. Pithla Bhakri
Pithla is a thicker version of zunka, cooked with garlic, mustard seeds, and green chilies. It is a comfort food for locals and a staple in village homes.
Why try it:
Classic Maharashtrian comfort food
Best time: Lunch
Tip: Pair with fresh buttermilk
2. Zunka Bhakri
Zunka Bhakri is the heart of rural Maharashtrian food. Zunka is made from gram flour cooked with onions, garlic, green chilies, and spices, served with thick jowar or bajra bhakri.
Why try it:
Simple, filling, and truly local
Best time: Lunch
Tip: Eat it hot with raw onion and lemon
3. Misal Pav
Satara-style Misal Pav is spicy, flavorful, and less sweet compared to Kolhapur or Pune versions. It includes usal (sprouts curry), farsan, onions, lemon, and pav.
Why try it:
Perfect spicy breakfast or brunch
Best time: Morning to noon
Tip: Ask for spice level before ordering
4. Mutton Rassa (Mutton Curry)
Mutton Rassa is a bold, spicy curry made using traditional Maharashtrian masalas. It is slow-cooked to bring out deep flavors and usually served with bhakri or rice.
Why try it:
Authentic non-veg Maratha taste
Best time: Lunch or dinner
Tip: Best enjoyed on weekends when it’s freshly prepared
5. Kandi Pedha
Kandi Pedha is the most famous sweet of Satara and a must-buy food item. Made from fresh milk, sugar, and cardamom, it has a soft texture and rich taste. Locals often serve it to guests or buy it for festivals and travel gifts.
Why try it:
Authentic local sweet, not easily found outside Satara
Best time: Anytime, especially mornings
Tip: Buy fresh batches for softer texture
6. Sabudana Khichdi
A popular fasting food across Maharashtra, Satara’s sabudana khichdi is lightly spiced, fluffy, and cooked with peanuts and green chilies.
Why try it:
Light, tasty, and filling
Best time: Breakfast
Tip: Eat fresh to enjoy perfect texture
7. Vada Pav
Satara’s vada pav is simple and spicy, often served with dry garlic chutney and fried green chilies. It’s a favorite quick snack among students and travelers.
Why try it:
Quick local street snack
Best time: Evening
Tip: Try it with extra chutney
8. Puran Poli
Puran Poli is a traditional sweet flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery, flavored with nutmeg and cardamom. It is commonly prepared during festivals and special meals.
Why try it:
Traditional festive dish
Best time: Lunch or dinner
Tip: Eat with ghee or warm milk
9. Rice Bhakri with Thecha
Rice bhakri served with green or red thecha (chili-garlic chutney) is a simple yet powerful combination. It reflects Satara’s love for bold flavors.
Why try it:
Raw, rustic, village-style taste
Best time: Lunch
Tip: Not suitable if you cannot tolerate spice
10. Solkadhi
Solkadhi is a cooling drink made from kokum and coconut milk. It helps digestion and balances the spice of Maharashtrian meals.
Why try it:
Refreshing and healthy
Best time: After meals
Tip: Best consumed fresh and chilled
What Makes Satara Food Special?
- Use of local grains like jowar and bajra
- Bold garlic and chili flavors
- Simple cooking methods with strong taste
- Combination of village food and city snacks
Final Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Satara
- Prefer local eateries for authentic taste
- Ask for spice level, especially in misal and curries
- Try bhakri-based meals at least once
- Buy Kandi Pedha as an edible souvenir
Satara’s food is honest, flavorful, and deeply rooted in its culture. If you truly want to understand the city, start with its food.