The Top 10 Best Restaurants in Amritsar with Menu
Amritsar, the heart of Punjab, is not only famous for its Golden Temple but also its rich culinary heritage. The city is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delightful blend of traditional Punjabi flavors and modern gastronomy.
Here, we delve into the top 10 local restaurants in Amritsar, showcasing their specialties and menus, and guide you on how to select the best dining experiences. Its fame for food stems from the city’s deep-rooted traditions, the abundance of locally grown ingredients, and the unique cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations.
The food in Amritsar reflects the hearty and flavorful essence of Punjabi culture, blending spices and techniques to create unforgettable dishes. The city’s proximity to the Golden Temple also means that it attracts visitors from all over the world, who often indulge in its famous delicacies.
The 10 Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Amritsar
Kesar Da Dhaba
Address: Chowk Passian, Near Town Hall, Amritsar
Established in 1916, Kesar Da Dhaba is a legend in Amritsar’s food scene. Known for its authentic vegetarian Punjabi cuisine, this eatery serves rich and flavorful dishes cooked in desi ghee.
Menu Highlights:
- Dal Makhani
- Lachha Paratha
- Palak Paneer
- Phirni (sweet rice pudding)
What Makes It Special: The slow-cooked Dal Makhani and comforting Phirni make this a must-visit spot.
Bharawan Da Dhaba
Address: Hall Bazaar, Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
Another iconic establishment, Bharawan Da Dhaba, is synonymous with authentic Punjabi flavors. It’s a vegetarian delight and a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
Menu Highlights:
- Amritsari Kulcha
- Chole Bhature
- Paneer Butter Masala
- Lassi
What Makes It Special: Their Amritsari Kulcha, paired with tangy chole, is unparalleled.
Beera Chicken House
Address: Majitha Road, Amritsar
If you’re a non-vegetarian enthusiast, Beera Chicken House is the place to be. Renowned for its tandoori dishes, it offers a unique smoky flavor.
Menu Highlights:
- Tandoori Chicken
- Butter Chicken
- Fish Tikka
- Garlic Naan
What Makes It Special: The succulent and well-marinated Tandoori Chicken stands out as the star dish.
Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner
Address: Majitha-Verka Bypass Road, Amritsar
Known for its delectable seafood, Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner has been serving locals since the 1960s.
Menu Highlights:
- Amritsari Fish
- Lemon Chicken
- Mutton Curry
- Tandoori Prawns
What Makes It Special: The crispy and flavorful Amritsari Fish is a true testament to the city’s culinary excellence.
Surjit Food Plaza
Address: Lawrence Road, Amritsar
This restaurant is a fusion of tradition and modernity, offering both classic Punjabi dishes and global flavors.
Menu Highlights:
- Butter Chicken
- Amritsari Tikka
- Mutton Rogan Josh
- Paneer Tikka
What Makes It Special: The Butter Chicken here is cooked to perfection with a creamy tomato-based gravy.
Brothers’ Dhaba
Address: Hall Bazaar, Near Golden Temple, Amritsar
A sibling to Bharawan Da Dhaba, Brothers’ Dhaba is equally celebrated for its vegetarian offerings.
Menu Highlights:
- Sarson Da Saag with Makki Di Roti
- Rajma Chawal
- Veg Thali
- Sweet Lassi
What Makes It Special: The traditional Sarson Da Saag with Makki Di Roti is an authentic winter delicacy here.
Crystal Restaurant
Address: Queens Road, Amritsar
Crystal Restaurant is a fine dining option in the city that offers both Indian and international cuisines.
Menu Highlights:
- Paneer Tikka Masala
- Chicken Steak
- Thai Curry
- Tandoori Platters
What Makes It Special: Its diverse menu caters to those looking for variety alongside traditional flavors.
Kulcha Land
Address: Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar
Kulcha Land is a humble yet extremely popular spot for authentic Amritsari Kulchas.
Menu Highlights:
- Aloo Kulcha
- Gobhi Kulcha
- Masala Kulcha
- Lassi
What Makes It Special: The Kulchas, stuffed with spicy fillings and served with chole and chutney, are simply irresistible.
The Yellow Chilli
Address: Alpha One Mall, Amritsar
A creation of celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, The Yellow Chilli brings a contemporary twist to traditional Indian dishes.
Menu Highlights:
- Shaam Savera (spinach dumplings in tomato gravy)
- Lalla Mussa Dal
- Zaffrani Biryani
- Malai Kulfi
What Makes It Special: The innovative menu and sophisticated ambiance set it apart.
Haveli
Address: GT Road, Near Jalandhar Bypass, Amritsar
Haveli is a cultural dining experience that celebrates Punjabi heritage through its decor and cuisine.
Menu Highlights:
- Paneer Lababdar
- Tandoori Roti
- Chole Bhature
- Jalebi
What Makes It Special: The authentic village-style ambiance and hearty meals make it a memorable experience.
How to Select the Best Restaurants in Amritsar
Selecting the best restaurants in a vibrant city like Amritsar requires considering a few key factors:
- Cuisine Preferences: Determine your preference for vegetarian, non-vegetarian, or specialty cuisines like seafood.
- Authenticity: Opt for restaurants known for traditional recipes and techniques.
- Hygiene and Ambiance: Look for places with a clean environment and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Location: Choose eateries close to major attractions, like the Golden Temple, for convenience.
- Reviews and Ratings: Check Google My Business profiles for genuine reviews and high ratings.
- Menu Diversity: For larger groups, pick places offering a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes.
- Local Recommendations: Trust suggestions from locals who know the city’s food scene best.
- Value for Money: Balance quality and affordability, ensuring the meal matches the price.
- Cultural Experience: Some restaurants provide more than just food—look for spots offering cultural or historical significance.
- Signature Dishes: Seek out eateries renowned for their unique or iconic dishes.
Why Amritsar is Famous for Food:
- Cultural Influence: Punjabi cuisine is known for its robust flavors and generous use of ghee, butter, and cream. Amritsar epitomizes this culinary richness.
- Tandoor Cooking: The use of tandoors (clay ovens) in cooking adds a smoky flavor that is integral to many dishes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Amritsar’s dishes often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, enhancing the taste.
- Historical Legacy: The city’s Mughal and Sikh influences have enriched its culinary repertoire.
- Street Food Culture: Amritsar’s bustling streets are lined with eateries offering authentic and affordable food.
Top 5 Famous Dishes in Amritsar:
- Amritsari Kulcha
A crispy, flaky flatbread stuffed with spiced potatoes or paneer, served with chole (chickpea curry) and tangy chutney. It’s a quintessential breakfast item that’s a must-try. - Makki di Roti & Sarson da Saag
This classic Punjabi dish features cornmeal flatbread (makki di roti) paired with mustard greens (sarson da saag), slow-cooked with spices, and topped with a dollop of white butter. - Amritsari Fish
A signature dish, the fish is marinated in spices, dipped in gram flour batter, and fried to golden perfection. It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. - Lassi
A creamy, sweet yogurt-based drink served in large tumblers, often topped with malai (clotted cream). Amritsar’s lassi is legendary for its rich flavor and satiating nature. - Paneer Tikka
Chunks of paneer (cottage cheese) marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, grilled or cooked in a tandoor. It’s a favorite among vegetarians and pairs well with mint chutney.
Amritsar’s culinary offerings are a feast for the senses, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Amritsar’s culinary landscape is a tapestry of rich flavors and age-old traditions. From the buttery delights of Kesar Da Dhaba to the succulent offerings of Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner, the city offers something for everyone.
By considering factors like authenticity, hygiene, and local reviews, you can ensure a memorable dining experience. Whether you are a fan of hearty Punjabi meals or crave a fusion of modern and traditional, Amritsar’s restaurants promise a gastronomic journey worth savoring.
