Darjeeling is known as a perfect destination among tourists. It sits among majestic mountains, has the best tea plantations, and is a favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts. It is also famous for its Himalayan railway, but that is a talk for another day.
Today, we get to discuss the best things you can find on the streets of Darjeeling; Food. The food in Darjeeling is tasty and brings your palate back to life. No, we are not talking about the classy meals you get portions of in elegant restaurants. No, we are talking about street food in Darjeeling.
If you are interested in knowing the best street foods in Darjeeling, keep reading.
Momos
Momos are the ultimate lip-smacking meal you have been waiting for in your life. They are also one of the most popular foods in Darjeeling, also called Dim Sum. They are the perfect snacks for a busy day of touring.
The Momos mainly comprise dumplings with vegetable or meat stuffing. So, you can enjoy a plate of momos, whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover. You then receive your serving with a bowl of hot soup on the side.
Usually, the serving comes with 7-8 dumplings, but this depends on the food court you are eating at. Momos can be baked, deep-fried, or steamed. The dough comprises all-purpose flour.
The stuffing will be veggies, chicken, or pork, seasoned to perfection. The dough is then stuffed and shaped decently before cooking.
You can find the best momos in Darjeeling at restaurant Kunga along Gandhi Road, Dekevas for meat momos, or hasty-Tasty for delicious vegetarian momos.
Thukpa
Second, another dish that draws its roots in Tibetan cuisine is on the list. Thukpa is a hot-noodle soup. It usually includes many vegetables, spices, and haka noodles. You can also find some traces o bread crumbs, meat, or eggs.
The beauty of Thukpa is that you can find a variety in the city of Darjeeling. In some parts of the city, it is Amdo Thukpa. You can get a vegan thukpa or get one served in meat soup. Usually, the garnishing includes fresh spring onions and coriander.
Devekas Restaurant and Restaurant Kunga are also famous for their dish. You can also enjoy the delicious thukpa in Nawangs Restaurants.
Aloo Dum
Although it seems like a homemade dish, Aloo Dum is a popular, mouth-watering street food in Darjeeling. It is a common vegetable dish comprising boiled potatoes, garlic, red chili, and onion.
These ingredients come together in a thick gravy, which you can add ‘bhajia’ ( thin slices of potatoes seasoned with salt and pepper before deep frying) to take the taste to another level.
The best places to enjoy a special meal of Aloo Dum are Hasty Tasty or other local vendors along Mall road.
Sekuwa
Are you looking to try some meat from the Nepali region? If so, you can start with some basic sekuwa, which are Nepalese-style kebabs.
The sekuwas use seasoned meat. The meat is mixed with the best herbs and spices of the land to bring out the flavor. The meat then cooks over an open fire that utilizes natural wood fire before it is served with finely chopped onions, coriander, and ginger.
With a touch of lemon juice, you will be eating the best kebabs in Darjeeling. Sekuwa is one of the most common street foods in Darjeeling. It is available in almost all local food stalls, but if you want a location, then the local street market near Darjeeling Mall should be the place to visit.
Naga Cuisine
The meal draws its roots from the Naga community within the city. It is famous for its meat or fish, which often undergo fermentation and smoking to achieve the perfect taste.
A Naga cuisine will typically include fermented rice, bamboo shoots, and achaar. The meal is then served with chicken or pork, pickles, fish, ghee, and a sweet dish. This is the perfect royal thali meal.
If you are in the spirits to get a Naga cuisine, then Revolver Restaurant along Gandhi Road is the best place.
Sel Roti
Sel roti is a cuisine that you enjoy when you befriend the locals. This roti, which is found in select areas of Darjeeling, is a common delicacy to the local people. It is a common snack in Nepali homes, especially on special occasions.
The sel roti, which you can easily mistake for bagels, comprises rice paste, deep-fried in oil and served along with cheese or butter. Pickles are excellent accompaniments, and so are chutneys.
Bottom Line
No trip is ever complete until you taste the food of the land you are visiting. Darjeeling is famous for its beautiful attractions, close to the Himalayans. But, food in Darjeeling hits differently. The street food in Darjeeling is the best way to learn about the culture of the Nepalese and Bengali people.
You can always order a cup of the Darjeeling chai to honor the main crop of the land. You will not be disappointed with the menu selection offered by the local vendors along the streets, near the mall, or in a free market.
