Introduction
India is a country where you can eat like a king without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you’re a student on a tight budget, a backpacker exploring the country, or simply someone who loves good food at great prices, there’s no shortage of affordable meals in India.
The beauty of Indian cuisine lies in its diversity—every region offers unique flavors, textures, and aromas. And guess what? You don’t need to spend more than ₹100 to enjoy these culinary delights. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best Indian meals under ₹100 , each offering a burst of flavor and satisfaction.
So, let’s dive into the world of affordable yet delicious Indian meals!
Why Choose Meals Under ₹100?
Before we get into the list, here’s why these budget-friendly meals are worth exploring:
- Affordable Prices : Most meals cost between ₹30-₹100, making them accessible to everyone.
- Authentic Flavors : These meals are often prepared using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
- Variety : From vegetarian thalis to spicy snacks, there’s something for every palate.
- Local Experience : Eating these meals gives you a real taste of India’s culture and hospitality.
Pro Tip : Always carry cash, as many small eateries don’t accept digital payments.
Top 10 Best Indian Meals Under ₹100
1. Puri Sabzi
Location : Across India (Popular in North and South India)
Specialty : Crispy Fried Bread with Spiced Vegetables
Puri Sabzi is a classic Indian breakfast dish. The puri—a deep-fried, puffed bread—is served with a spicy potato curry (aloo sabzi). It’s filling, flavorful, and costs less than ₹50 at most roadside stalls.
During one of my trips to Jaipur, I tried Puri Sabzi at a small eatery near Hawa Mahal. The puris were perfectly crispy, and the sabzi was rich and aromatic.
Key Fact : In South India, Puri is often served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Reference : Puri Sabzi Recipe
2. Pav Bhaji
Location : Mumbai, Pune
Specialty : Spicy Vegetable Mash with Buttered Buns
Pav Bhaji is a Mumbai staple—a spicy mash of mixed vegetables (bhaji) served with buttered buns (pav). It’s a quick, satisfying meal that costs around ₹60-₹80 at most street stalls.
I once had Pav Bhaji at a bustling stall in Dadar, Mumbai. The bhaji was so flavorful, and the buttery pav added a rich touch to the dish.
Pro Tip : Add extra butter and onions for an indulgent experience.
Reference : Pav Bhaji History
3. Thali Meals
Location : Across India (Popular in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu)
Specialty : A Complete Meal with Dal, Sabzi, Rice, and Roti
Thali meals are a wholesome dining experience. A typical thali includes dal, sabzi, rice, roti, curd, pickle, and sometimes dessert—all served on a single platter. In cities like Jaipur and Ahmedabad, you can find thalis for ₹80-₹100.
During a trip to Udaipur, I tried a Rajasthani thali at a local dhaba. The combination of flavors and textures was so satisfying that it felt like a feast.
Key Fact : Gujarati thalis are sweeter, while South Indian thalis include rasam and sambar.
Reference : Thali Meals Guide
4. Misal Pav
Location : Maharashtra
Specialty : Spicy Sprout Curry with Bread
Misal Pav is a popular Maharashtrian dish made with sprouted lentils cooked in a spicy curry and served with pav. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that costs around ₹70-₹90.
I once tried Misal Pav at a famous stall in Pune. The curry was so spicy and tangy that it left a lasting impression.
Pro Tip : Add farsan (crispy toppings) and lemon juice for extra flavor.
Reference : Misal Pav Recipe
5. Idli Sambar
Location : South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala)
Specialty : Steamed Rice Cakes with Lentil Soup
Idli Sambar is a comforting South Indian breakfast dish. Soft, steamed idlis are served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney. You can enjoy this meal for ₹50-₹80 at most eateries.
During a visit to Chennai, I tried Idli Sambar at a small café. The idlis were soft and fluffy, and the sambar was rich and flavorful.
Key Fact : Some places serve mini idlis soaked in sambar for a unique twist.
Reference : Idli Sambar Recipe
6. Kachori Sabzi
Location : Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh
Specialty : Spicy Fried Pastry with Potato Curry
Kachori Sabzi is a popular North Indian breakfast dish. The kachori—a deep-fried, spiced pastry—is served with a tangy potato curry. It’s a filling and flavorful meal that costs around ₹40-₹70.
I once tried Kachori Sabzi at a street stall in Varanasi. The kachoris were perfectly crispy, and the sabzi was tangy and spicy.
Pro Tip : Pair it with a glass of lassi for a refreshing touch.
Reference : Kachori Sabzi Recipe
7. Chole Kulche
Location : North India (Delhi, Punjab)
Specialty : Spicy Chickpea Curry with Flaky Bread
Chole Kulche is a Punjabi favorite—a spicy chickpea curry served with flaky, buttery kulchas. It’s a satisfying meal that costs around ₹80-₹100.
During a trip to Amritsar, I tried Chole Kulche at a local dhaba. The kulchas were so soft, and the chole was rich and flavorful.
Pro Tip : Add onions and green chutney for extra crunch and flavor.
Reference : Chole Kulche Recipe
8. Dosa with Coconut Chutney
Location : South India (Bangalore, Chennai, Mysore)
Specialty : Crispy Rice Crepe with Spicy and Sweet Chutneys
Dosa is a South Indian classic—a thin, crispy rice crepe served with coconut chutney and sambar. A plain dosa costs around ₹40-₹60, while masala dosa costs ₹70-₹90.
I once had a Masala Dosa at a café in Bangalore. The dosa was so crispy, and the chutney added a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Key Fact : Some places offer jumbo-sized dosas for ₹100.
Reference : Dosa Recipe
9. Aloo Paratha with Curd
Location : North India (Delhi, Punjab)
Specialty : Stuffed Flatbread with Spiced Potatoes
Aloo Paratha is a North Indian favorite—a flatbread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes and served with curd or pickle. It’s a hearty meal that costs around ₹50-₹80.
During a visit to Ludhiana, I tried Aloo Paratha at a roadside dhaba. The paratha was perfectly flaky, and the curd added a cooling effect.
Pro Tip : Add ghee for an indulgent touch.
Reference : Aloo Paratha Recipe
10. Jalebi with Rabri
Location : Across India (Popular in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh)
Specialty : Sweet, Crispy Spirals with Thickened Milk
Jalebi with Rabri is a popular dessert combo. Crispy, syrupy jalebis are served with thickened sweet milk (rabri). This indulgent treat costs around ₹60-₹100.
I once tried this combo at a sweet shop in Jaipur. The jalebis were warm and syrupy, and the rabri was creamy and rich.
Key Fact : Some places add dry fruits to rabri for extra richness.
Reference : Jalebi with Rabri Recipe
Tips for Exploring Affordable Indian Meals
- Try Local Specialties : Don’t miss out on regional dishes like Puri Sabzi in Rajasthan or Dosa in South India.
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours : Avoid crowds by dining during non-peak hours.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations : Locals know the best hidden gems.
- Carry Cash : Many small eateries don’t accept digital payments.
- Explore Street Food Safely : Stick to busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness.
Reference : Street Food Safety Tips
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the most popular Indian meal under ₹100?
A: Puri Sabzi and Pav Bhaji are among the most popular meals under ₹100.
Q2: Are there any vegetarian-only meals under ₹100?
A: Yes, dishes like Idli Sambar , Aloo Paratha , and Dosa are purely vegetarian.
Q3: How much does a meal typically cost under ₹100?
A: Most meals cost between ₹30-₹100 , depending on the dish and location.
Q4: Is street food safe to eat in India?
A: Yes, as long as you choose clean and busy stalls, street food is generally safe.
Reference : Food Safety Guidelines by FSSAI
Conclusion
India’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of affordable yet delicious meals. Whether you’re craving spicy chaats, comforting thalis, or sweet desserts, there’s no shortage of options under ₹100. From iconic Puri Sabzi to indulgent Jalebi with Rabri, each meal tells a story of India’s rich culinary heritage.
So, pack your appetite and embark on a flavorful journey through the streets of India. Explore these 10 budget-friendly meals, savor the authentic flavors, and create unforgettable memories.
Have you tried any of these meals? Or do you have a favorite dish that didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!