Introduction
Food is not just a therapy for travelling individuals; it is fuel. Nothing cheers you up more than seeing a restaurant by the roadside when you’ve been travelling for hours with an empty stomach. Additionally, the cuisine at these roadside dhabas tastes a million times better than the meals at your five-star restaurants. It makes sense that India’s national roads are studded with the food oasis where passengers may stop for quick on-the-go refreshments.
One of the finest routes for some awesome desi-style bingeing at dhabas and eateries is the north Indian highways. So next time you explore the beautiful places to visit in North India via road, stop by these dhabas before covering another 100 miles.
Here is a list of the top 14 Dhabas you can find on your voyage to explore different cities and hill towns in North India
1. Amrik Sukhdev, Murthal
This dhaba is located close to Sonipat, around 60 kilometres from Delhi. This vintage location is a must-visit while travelling along NH 1 because of its elegant menu and friendly staff, who are always on the lookout for ways to assist you in discovering the finest in their dishes. Despite the abundance of well-known Indian and international chefs, this location is best known for its Murthal parathas, Dal Makhani, Lassi, Mutton Curry, Shahi Paneer and Chai.
2. Karnal Haveli, Murthal
Karnal Haveli is another well-known treasure in the Murthal; it is more of a fancy restaurant than a dhaba. This place serves genuine Punjabi food and is modelled after a haveli to showcase its traditional, authentic roots. Visitors frequently appreciate the peek into Punjabi Haveli life provided by the decor, which is rich in art and antiques.
Visit this place to experience the authentic flavours of Kadhi and Amritsari Chole.
3. Jhilmil Dhaba, Muradnagar
Jhilmil Dhaba, another well-known dhaba along the Delhi-Uttarakhand route, is renowned for its Tandoori Chai and Kulfi. Particularly to revive yourself after long drives, its kulfi ice cream tastes exquisite and refreshing and is loaded with dry fruits. For more than 55 years, the restaurant has catered to tourists, and everyone seems to enjoy its north Indian specialities.
4. Om Mannat Dhaba, Muzaffarnagar
Om Mannat Dhaba, which is close to Roorkee, serves delectable North Indian food and has comfy seating for diners. Most people like their hot stuffed paranthas with their Kulhad tea. Their lentil dishes and paneer are excellent. Additionally, their Chola Bhaturas are quite well-known among travellers.
5. Old Rao Dhaba, Dharuhera
In Dharuhera, Haryana, there is a well-known dhaba called Old Rao Dhaba. It is renowned for its delectable cuisine and welcoming service. It is situated close to Gurgaon along National Highway 8. Both vegetarians and non-vegetarians can eat there, and it is renowned for its north Indian food. When you eat here, come with a big appetite and a light wallet.
6. Murthal Dhaba, Haryana
In Murthal, Haryana, there is a well-known highway dhaba called Murthal Dhaba. The parathas and chole bhature are among the favourite dishes here. This dhaba is a popular rest station for travellers and truckers and is situated on the National Highway that connects Delhi and Haryana. This dhaba is another popular destination among travellers for its renowned jalebi and lassi.
7. Deepak Dhaba, Dhanaula
Travellers on their way out from Patiala towards Jaisalmer usually have a relaxation break at Deepak Dhaba. After crossing Sangrur, you almost certainly won’t be able to miss this popular dhaba. Since this restaurant is known for providing filling meals around the clock, those who travel at unusual hours don’t have to worry about going hungry. Speaking about speciality, the classic Punjabi Sarson ka saag and Makki ki roti are divine here.
8. Bhagat Ki Kothi, Rajasthan
Bhagat Ki Kothi is renowned for its superb traditional Rajasthani cuisine and welcoming staff. It is a well-liked rest station for motorists and truck drivers and is situated along NH, close to Jodhpur. The dhaba is well-known for its authentic Rajasthani thali, with meals like dal bati churma, besan gatta, and kadhi. Additionally, it serves several vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals that are well-known among the locals, including biryani, kabab, and tandoori chicken.
9. Elgin Cafe – Amritsar
Although Elgin Cafe is counted among the top Italian cafes in Amritsar, being on the city’s outskirts, this cafe is also among the popular rest points for travellers. This eatery place is known for its delectable Italian cuisine. Situated close to Ivy hospital, Amritsar, this eatery spot is a terrific place to stop for dinner. The cuisine is of excellent quality. The cafe’s menu is extremely extensive and offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Anyone who enjoys delicious, hearty Italian food must visit this location.
10. Lucky Dhaba, Jalandhar
Lucky Dhaba has evolved into a contemporary, dynamic business. It is conveniently placed near the highway and has air conditioning and comfortable seating so you can enjoy your meal comfortably at your leisure. Their Mix Veg, Yellow Daal, and several Missi Roti, Tandoori Roti, and Laccha Paranthas variants are amazing for larger meals. It is advised to stop for breakfast and a steaming chai there.
11. Old Sher-e Punjab Dhaba – Dalhousie
The kulcha and Balu ka paratha are the standout dishes at this dhaba near Dalhousie. They are prepared with care and mouthwatering white butter. It has good reason to be on the list of famous highway dhabas you should visit while travelling from Delhi to Dalhousie. The rustic impact on the dhaba’s interior and external decor contributes to its fame. Amritsari kulchas and matar paneer are the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
If you are travelling to Dalhousie – the most charming hill town in Himachal Pradesh, then book your comfortable stay at Elgin Hall – Homestay. This place will help you enjoy the alluring nature of Dalhousie in the laps of the Himalayas.
12. Giani da dhaba, Kalka Shimla
Giani Da Dhaba in Dharampur can be reached on the Kalka Shimla Highway. Most tourists heading to Kasauli or Shimla see this location as the ideal rest area. Unlike its modern competitors, this dhaba still has a timeless appeal. The delicacies served here that people love the most are Butter Chicken and Lemon Chicken.
13. Sharma Vaishno Dhaba, Kufri Chail road
This little dhaba is the best place to obtain home-cooked cuisine if you travel to Chail from Kufri. The most excellent vegetarian food is lovingly prepared and served at this little eatery run by a husband and wife. Everything is delicious and fresh. Hot favourites like aloo matter, kadhi pakoda, rajma, chutney, and chai are the most delectable dishes.
14. Modern Dhaba, Kalka Shimla
To satisfy your thirst for Rajma served with hot rice and onion, visit the modern dhaba. This quaint restaurant offers only vegetarian meals that are said to be wholesome and cooked at home. Stop here with your friends if you’re travelling on the Kalka-Shimla Highway.
Read More: Top 7 Travel Tips To Explore North India
The Bottom Line
Dhabas are popular and well-known roadside eateries located in different regions of India, particularly in the northern states such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. They are renowned for their delectable traditional cuisine, welcoming staff, and affordable prices. So, the next time you’re driving down a winding highway, stop, maintain your position, and get a fast supper at one of these well-known highway dhabas.