Everyone knows when in Rajasthan you must try a Rajasthani thali. But, there are certain dishes that  encapsulates the food culture in the city which you won’t find anywhere else. It’s where locals and tourists go alike, but cannot be found in generic tour itineraries of the city and cannot be found everywhere.

This guide will cover all the restaurants that pay homage to the Rajasthani culture but also cover all the places that make you experience the true essence of the city.

Foods you must try when in Jaisalmer

 

Ker Sangri

 Ker Sangri is a traditional Rajasthani dish made with dried ker berry and sangri beans. Traditionally, to be eaten along with bajra roti and not found outside of Rajasthan. You must savour this dish while in Rajasthan.

 

Laal Maas

Although, mostly known for vegetarian dishes, meat was a significant part of the food culture in Rajasthan.

The dish was traditionally prepared by the khansamas of Rajput royals while going on hunting trips. The dish uses a blend of aromatic spices and mathania chillies, also local to Rajasthan,  to mask the gamey odour of meat, and produce a rich flavourful gravy with the most tender meat. This was often served on special occasions, such as weddings and festivals.

 

Kachori

Pyaz ki Kachori, is a deep-fried pastry with various fillings; onion, dal, is a  popular Rajasthani snack. You’ll often find vendors selling them throughout the day.

 

Makhania lassi

Makhania lassi has a very distinct, thick creamy texture often close to a shrikhand.

 

Cafes of Jaisalmer

 

The golden city of India has very whole heartedly accepted the cafe culture and you here you will find cafes with the best views of the city, lake and the fort. I’d say experience everything. However, to make things easier, here is a list.

 

Kuku’s coffee shop

This place is situated inside the fort and is one of the most famous rooftop cafes run by the sweetest people. The menu is unique and boasts of a variety of options. I would recommend everything; but absolutely do not miss their specialty coffees like; rose cappuccino, cinnamon cappuccino, affogatos. In addition, this cafe boasts of stunning views of the city.

Address: Inside Jaisalmer Fort, near Hari Om Jewellers, Chougen Para, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

 

 

Café 1156 AD 

This is right by Gadisar lake and  is a serene spot surrounded by trees. Stop by for a quick meal and coffee. Owing to its location, it becomes one of the ideal spots to just chill and soak in the views.

Address: Gadisar Lake Gaj Mandir, Rajasthan 345001

 

 

Café The Kaku 

This is one of the best rooftop cafes to catch a sunset overlooking the city and the fort. It is also amongst the best places to have an authentic rajasthani meal. The place serves wood fired pizza. Look out for their social media page as although we randomly walked in, it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiewences due to a traditional rajasthani folk music performance.

Pro tip: Do not miss their Laal maas!

Address: WWC7+HFG, near suli dungar, Malka Pol, Jaisalmer, Kishan Ghat, Rajasthan 345001

 

 

Dining among the stars

I wish this was an experience was made available to all and catered to every budget. However, this is one experience that you’ll  have to consciously decide to splurge on. This is usually a part of a package when you decide to stay at sam resort and cost upward of 10K for a couple. This will not only cover the dining experience, but also cover your stay, adventure activities and a cultural performance at the place you decide to stay. There are many tour operators around the fort that charge varying amounts.

Street food in Jaisalmer

 

FatehChand Deewanchand Kachori Wala

This is a small cart outside the fort selling what is one of the best kachoris. Their kachori is well-known amongst the locals who religiously come here and wait to be served piping hot kachoris. The minimum wait time at any time is a minimum of 10-20 minutes though.

Be warned though, it is street food and you cannot expect to be served like in a hotel or shop but there is absolutely no compromise on the taste.

Address: WW77+CHJ, Fort Rd, Khejer Para, Manak Chowk, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

 

Bhang lassi shop

Ask anyone to direct you to the most famous bhang shop and you will be directed to this shop. This is a government authorized shop that serves bhang lassi and thandai amongst other varieties. You can also buy bhang cookies of varying strengths ; however that is at your discretion.

Dhanraj ramlal bhatia sweets

Ghotua laddus are known to last months and to be found only in Jaisalmer and the best place to have these laddoos is here. We bought kilos and devoured it throughout our trip. This also serves one of the best kachoris and sweets in the city so keep an open mind and an empty stomach.

Address: Near, Fort Rd, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

 

 

Other things you can try from Jaisalmer is dal pakwan, mirchi bhajiyas and poha. These stalls are lined right opposite the fort and the trip will not be complete without trying these places.

 

I hope this food guide helps you. If you have any queries you can comment down below or text me on my social media page linked below.