Introduction
India’s love affair with thalis is as rich and diverse as its cuisine. A thali is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Imagine a platter filled with a variety of dishes, from spicy curries to tangy pickles, creamy raitas, and sweet desserts, all served in one sitting. And the best part? Many thali restaurants in India offer unlimited refills , allowing you to savor every bite without worrying about running out of food.
But here’s the cherry on top: you don’t need to splurge to enjoy this feast. There are plenty of budget-friendly thali restaurants across the country where you can indulge in unlimited meals without breaking the bank.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best cheap thali restaurants in India , ensuring you can enjoy every bite while staying within your budget. So, whether you’re a traveler exploring the country or a local looking for hearty meals, let’s dive into where you can find affordable yet delightful thalis.
Why Focus on Unlimited Thali Restaurants?
Before we get into the details, here’s why prioritizing unlimited thali restaurants is essential:
- Affordable Prices : Most thalis cost ₹80-₹250, making them accessible to everyone.
- Variety : A single thali offers multiple dishes, giving you a taste of regional specialties.
- Cultural Experience : Thalis reflect India’s culinary diversity and traditions.
- Convenience : Unlimited meals mean you can eat as much as you want without ordering à la carte.
Pro Tip : Always check if the restaurant charges extra for specific items like desserts or premium dishes.
Top 10 Best Cheap Thali Restaurants in India
1. Rajdhani Thali (Across India)
Location : Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad
Cost : ₹150-₹250
Rajdhani Thali specializes in authentic Gujarati and Rajasthani thalis, offering unlimited refills of dal, kadhi, roti, rice, and desserts.
During a visit to their outlet in Ahmedabad, I tried their unlimited Gujarati thali for ₹200. The variety of dishes, from sweet shrikhand to spicy undhiyu, was incredible.
Key Fact : They often serve seasonal specialties like methi paratha during winters.
2. Sagar Ratna (Across India)
Location : Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai
Cost : ₹120-₹200
Sagar Ratna is famous for its South Indian thalis, featuring dishes like sambar, rasam, coconut chutney, and crispy papad.
At their Delhi outlet, I had a South Indian thali for ₹150. The unlimited refills of sambar and rice made it a filling meal.
Pro Tip : Pair your thali with their filter coffee for an authentic South Indian experience.
3. Haldiram’s Restaurants (Across India)
Location : Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune
Cost : ₹100-₹250
Haldiram’s is known for its packaged snacks, but their restaurants serve delicious North Indian and South Indian thalis at affordable prices.
At a Haldiram’s outlet in Delhi, I enjoyed a veg thali for ₹150. The butter paneer and dal makhani were particularly memorable.
Key Fact : Their thalis come with complimentary dessert options like gulab jamun or kheer.
4. Bhojohori Manna (West Bengal)
Location : Kolkata, Siliguri, Darjeeling
Cost : ₹120-₹200
Bhojohori Manna is a Bengali favorite, offering unlimited thalis with dishes like luchi, alur dom, and mishti doi.
During a trip to Kolkata, I tried their Bengali thali for ₹180. The sweet and savory flavors were perfectly balanced.
Pro Tip : Don’t miss their signature mishti doi—it’s a must-try!
5. Swagath Restaurant (South India)
Location : Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai
Cost : ₹100-₹200
Swagath is a popular chain in South India, specializing in Andhra and Mangalorean cuisines. Their unlimited thalis feature spicy curries, crispy papads, and tangy pickles.
At their Hyderabad outlet, I had an Andhra thali for ₹150. The fiery chicken curry and steamed rice were unforgettable.
Key Fact : Vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis are clearly marked on the menu.
6. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay (Ahmedabad)
Location : Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Cost : ₹180-₹250
Shree Thaker Bhojanalay is a legendary Gujarati thali restaurant, serving unlimited portions of traditional dishes like kadhi, khichdi, and farsan.
During a visit to Ahmedabad, I tried their unlimited thali for ₹220. The variety of sweets and savories was overwhelming—in a good way!
Pro Tip : Arrive early, as the restaurant gets crowded during lunch hours.
7. Annamaya (Hyderabad)
Location : Hyderabad, Telangana
Cost : ₹100-₹180
Annamaya is a hidden gem in Hyderabad, offering unlimited South Indian thalis at unbeatable prices.
At their Banjara Hills outlet, I had a veg thali for ₹120. The unlimited sambar and rasam were comforting and flavorful.
Key Fact : They also serve biryani thalis on weekends—highly recommended!
8. Goli Vada Pav (Maharashtra)
Location : Mumbai, Pune, Nashik
Cost : ₹80-₹150
Goli Vada Pav is famous for its vada pav, but their Maharashtrian thalis are equally impressive. Think spicy batata bhaji, puran poli, and zunka bhakri.
At a Goli Vada Pav outlet in Pune, I tried their unlimited thali for ₹120. The rustic flavors of zunka bhakri and thecha were unforgettable.
Pro Tip : Add a glass of masala chai for ₹20—it’s the perfect pairing.
9. Chor Bizarre (North India)
Location : Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur
Cost : ₹200-₹300
Chor Bizarre is a quirky restaurant chain offering unlimited Kashmiri thalis. Think rogan josh, yakhni, and tabak maaz.
During a visit to their Delhi outlet, I had a Kashmiri thali for ₹250. The aroma of saffron and spices was intoxicating.
Key Fact : Their interiors are themed around “stolen” artifacts, adding to the charm.
10. Arya Bhavan (South India)
Location : Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai
Cost : ₹80-₹150
Arya Bhavan is a vegetarian chain in South India, offering unlimited thalis with dishes like appam, stew, and avial.
At their Chennai outlet, I tried their Kerala thali for ₹120. The creamy appam and spicy stew were a match made in heaven.
Pro Tip : Visit during breakfast hours for unlimited dosas and idlis.
Tips for Finding Cheap Thali Restaurants
- Check Reviews : Use platforms like Zomato or Google Reviews to find the best-rated thali spots.
- Visit During Lunch Hours : Many restaurants offer unlimited thalis only during lunch.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations : They often know the best hidden gems for affordable thalis.
- Look for Seasonal Specials : Some restaurants offer unique dishes during festivals or harvest seasons.
Pro Tip : Avoid overeating—even though it’s unlimited, pacing yourself ensures you enjoy every bite.
Sample Unlimited Thali Plan for a Day Trip
Here’s an example of how you can plan your meals for a day while staying within a budget of ₹400-₹600:
| Meal | Food Option | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | South Indian Thali (Arya Bhavan) | ₹120 |
| Lunch | Gujarati Thali (Rajdhani) | ₹200 |
| Dinner | Kashmiri Thali (Chor Bizarre) | ₹250 |
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the cheapest unlimited thali restaurant in India?
A: Goli Vada Pav and Arya Bhavan are among the cheapest options, with thalis starting at ₹80.
Q2: Are unlimited thali restaurants safe to eat at in India?
A: Yes, most reputable chains follow hygiene standards and are generally safe.
Q3: Can vegetarians find unlimited thali options?
A: Absolutely! Most thali restaurants offer vegetarian options, often with separate menus.
Q4: How much does a typical unlimited thali cost in India?
A: Most thalis cost between ₹100-₹300 , depending on the location and type of cuisine.
Reference : Food Safety Guidelines by FSSAI
Conclusion
Finding the best cheap thali restaurants in India is easier than you might think. From the spicy curries of Andhra Pradesh to the sweet flavors of Gujarat, there are countless places where you can enjoy unlimited meals without overspending. By following the locals, exploring regional specialties, and trying these budget-friendly chains, you can savor the country’s rich culinary heritage while staying within your budget.
So, pack your appetite and embark on a flavorful journey through India’s thali restaurants. With these tips, you can enjoy every bite of your meal without worrying about the bill.
Have you discovered any hidden gems for unlimited thalis in India? Or do you have a favorite spot that didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!