The magic of monsoon in Pune isn’t just the pitter-patter of rain on the windowpane or the earthy scent of wet soil. It’s a sensory experience that awakens a primal craving for comfort and warmth. As the cool rain kisses the city, a symphony of desires plays out. You crave a steaming cup of chai, the aroma filling your home with a sense of cozy nostalgia. But there’s another melody in this symphony, a crispy, golden counterpoint – the irresistible call of pakoras. And if you are from Pune, then here are some pakora spots to visit during monsoon in Pune.
Pakoras are the perfect monsoon muse. These deep-fried fritters, with their shatteringly crisp exterior and a heart of savory goodness, are a warm hug on a plate. The chickpea batter, seasoned just right, becomes a canvas for a variety of fillings – from the humble potato to the more adventurous paneer and prawns. Each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, a delightful contrast to the cool monsoon breeze.
5 Best Pakora Spots To Visit During Monsoon In Pune
- S. Kumar Wadewale
- Bipin Snacks
- Amma Pakoda
- Rohit Wadewale
- Triveni
1. S. Kumar Wadewale
The first must-visit pakora spots to visit during monsoon in Pune is S. Kumar Wadewale. This local gem might be renowned for its legendary Vada Pav, but their pakoras are equally, if not more, deserving of your attention. Imagine fluffy potato pakoras, bursting at the seams with perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes, and onion pakoras where the onions are caramelized to a sweet, golden perfection.
All of this is doused in a light and airy chickpea batter, a delicate web that shatters with a satisfying crunch in every bite. The generous portions and pocket-friendly prices make S. Kumar Wadewala the ideal spot for a quick and satisfying pakoda fix. It’s the perfect way to experience the soul of Pune’s monsoon street food culture, a celebration of simple flavors that warm the heart and fill the belly.
Price For Two: Approx INR 200
Address: Second Floor, Amanora Mall, East Block, Near Mutha River, Magarpatta, Pune
2. Bipin Snacks
A true Pune institution, Bipin Snacks holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of the city’s residents. When the monsoon arrives, Bipin Snacks transforms into a monsoon Maharaja, pulling out all the stops for their loyal patrons. Their pakoras are legendary for a reason. Fresh, seasonal vegetables are clothed in a secret spice blend, a symphony of flavors that dances on your tongue. The secret weapon? Their signature green chutney, a vibrant condiment that adds a burst of freshness and a delightful tang to every bite. It’s a monsoon experience you won’t forget.
Price For Two: Approx INR 100
Address: 30/B, Near Sahyadri Hospital, Erandwane, Pune
3. Amma Pakoda
Amma Pakoda, a haven of South Indian flavors, offers a unique twist on the classic monsoon pakoda. Here, the focus is on fresh, seasonal vegetables transformed into crispy fritters bursting with vibrant flavors. Imagine perfectly battered bananas, the batter infused with fragrant curry leaves and mustard seeds. Each bite is an explosion of textures – the soft bananas contrasting beautifully with the crisp exterior.
But the true star of the show at Amma Pakoda is their coconut chutney. This creamy condiment, with a hint of sweetness and a touch of spice, complements the vegetable pakoras beautifully. For all those who like their food to have the ooey gooey texture, they also serve cheese pakoras for you to indulge in. It’s a delightful departure from the usual chutneys, adding a touch of South Indian magic to your monsoon pakoda experience.
Price For Two: Approx INR 300
Address: Shop 1-2, New Mani Ratna Complex, Aryaneshwar Corner, Shiv Darshan Road, Parvati, Pune
4. Rohit Wadewale
This local legend is known for its creative takes on Maharashtrian street food, and their pakoras are no exception. Here, you’ll find the classics with a delightful twist. Their batata (potato) pakoras are a revelation – fluffy, perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes encased in a light and airy chickpea batter. But the magic lies in the addition of fresh herbs like coriander (kothimbir) and curry leaves. These fragrant additions elevate the humble potato pakora, infusing it with an aromatic complexity that will have you reaching for another bite.
Price For Two: Approx INR 150
Address: Shop 1B, Survey 1/1A/14/3 & 1A/14/4, Aditi Classic, Baner Road, Baner, Pune
5. Triveni
As the monsoon rains drape Pune in a cool, comforting embrace, Triveni beckons with a delightful tradition – chai and bread pakoras. Forget elaborate dishes, here it’s about the simple pleasures that chase away the monsoon chill.
Imagine this: curled up with a steaming cup of chai, warm breath fogging the window as the rain creates a rhythmic melody on the rooftop. Each sip of the spiced tea is an invigorating experience, perfectly complementing the star of the show – Triveni’s legendary bread pakoras. These aren’t your ordinary fritters. Triveni’s bread pakoras are fluffy pillows of comfort
Price For Two: Approx INR 150
Address: Shop 3, Sai Complex, Cts 917/122, Ghole Road, Fc Road, Shivaji Nagar, Pune
Summing Up
From melt-in-your-mouth paneer pakoras to the delightful crunch of onion bhajis, pakoras offer an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. They are a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the season, incorporating fresh vegetables and local ingredients. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of chai or as a quick and satisfying snack, pakoras are a true testament to Pune’s vibrant street food culture.
FAQs
What Dishes Are Famous In Pune To Eat During Monsoon?
Apart from some fresh pakoras, you can also relish Misal Pav, Dabeli, Poha, and Pithla Bhakri during the monsoons in Pune.
What Are Some Must-Try Maharashtrian Dishes In Pune?
Veg: Misal Pav, Vada Pav, Maharashtrian Thali, Puran Poli
Non-Veg: Saoji Chicken, Tambda and Pandhra Rassa, and Kothimbir Vadi
What Are Some Areas In Pune Known For Good Maharashtrian Food?
Some of the neighborhoods you can check out in Pune for good Maharashtrian food are:
- Deccan Gymkhana
- Sadashiv Peth
- Baner
- Law College Road
Is Maharashtrian Food Spicy?
Maharashtrian cuisine offers a range of spice levels. Some dishes, like Saoji curries, are known for being quite spicy. However, there are also many milder options, especially in vegetarian thalis.
