A decade ago, terms like Korean Noodles, Mandi, or Shawarma might not have resonated much with Pune residents, but now they are becoming increasingly popular. Known for its adventurous culinary spirit, Pune has embraced new flavors, integrating them into its street food scene alongside the traditional Wada Pav, which remains a staple.
Let’s take a look at Pune’s emerging street food trends:
Korean Noodles
Korean cuisine, including Korean noodles, has been trending globally over the past five years, and Pune is catching up. Street vendors on Kothrud and FC Road now offer a variety of Korean noodles such as Ramen, Bibimbap, and Kalguksu. The dish costs between Rs 200-250 per plate.
Niharika Dhotre, a law student, said, “My addiction to K-dramas on Netflix introduced me to Korean noodles. I found a place on FC Road where I go once a month to enjoy them.”
Shawarma
Originating in the Middle East in the 19th century, Shawarma has become a favorite in Pune over the past five years. This dish features slow-grilled, tender meat wrapped in thick unleavened bread with mayonnaise or tahini, depending on where you purchase it. Shawarma prices range from Rs 50 to 200, depending on the vendor.
Shantanu Patil, a student at Modern College of Arts Science and Commerce, equates Shawarma to a full meal. “At this cost, there’s hardly anything else that is both filling and nutritious. On busy days, Shawarma is my go-to meal,” he noted.
Street vendors have introduced variations such as Shawarma rolls with roomali roti or fillings like sheek kebabs. Despite its wide availability, concerns have been raised about the quality of meat, so it’s advisable to ensure it is well-cooked.
Soya Chaap
Soya Chaap, a vegetarian adaptation of the Mughal-era Mutton Chaap, has gained popularity in Pune only in recent years. Originally made with marinated meat slow-cooked over coal, the vegetarian version uses soya nuggets. Soya Chaap, with varieties like malai and tandoori, is available for Rs 100-150 per plate.
Soya Chaap has become a fixture in areas like Sangvi, Viman Nagar, Tingrenagar, and Camp, where skewered chaaps are displayed in food stalls.
Amritsari Kulcha
Punjabi cuisine has long been a staple in Pune, with dishes like Chole Bhature and Amritsari Fish Tikka commonly available. Amritsari Kulcha, a stuffed wheat bread with spicy potatoes or pickles, has recently become a popular street food. In North India, it is traditionally served with chole and pickles. Pune’s introduction to Amritsari Kulcha is relatively recent, with its presence in roadside Punjabi eateries.
Shubham Jadhav, a second-year engineering student, said, “I first tried this dish in Vimannagar and enjoyed the taste, though it’s a bit pricey for me.” Amritsari Kulcha is now found in localities such as Baner, Chandannagar, Kharadi, Wakad, and Hinjewadi, with prices ranging from Rs 150-200 per plate.
Mandi
Mandi, an Arabian dish, is also gaining traction among non-vegetarian food enthusiasts in Pune. Served on a large platter with flavorful rice and a substantial portion of chicken or mutton, Mandi has its roots in Yemen and has been popularized in India through Hyderabad. It is relatively expensive, with the cost for two people around Rs 1200.
“It tastes much like biryani but is less spicy,” remarked Ashfaque Syed, a regular at Mandi houses in Kausar Baug, Kondhwa. “It’s a great choice for large groups, as one dish serves several people,” he added.
Pune’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, blending traditional favorites with new and exciting flavors.