Highway Dhabas are a huge part of Indian culture today, but do we know how they came into popularity? 

The word ‘Dhaba’ stems from ‘Dabba’ meaning lunch box or tiffin in colloquial terms. Highway Dhabas were infamous for serving food with a homemade quality to it, on ‘charpai’s’ and served as rest stops for truckers. 

Today, these pit stops have turned into family-run restaurants and have become an essential part of every Indian road trip! Here are 10 of the best Highway Dhabas in India

10 Highway Dhabas to visit on your next road trip!

Chilika Dhaba

This dhaba is located on NH5 in Barkul, Odisha, and takes its name from the surrounding Chilika Lake. While seafood is the main attraction, this dhaba also offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes that are as good! Do not miss the Giant Crab and Chilli Prawns at this Dhaba. 

            Route:  On NH5 in Odisha

            Cost for two: INR 500

Sharma Dhaba

This dhaba is a famous stopover for those looking for real Rajasthani food on the road to Sikar from Jaipur. Apart from the wonderful meal cooked with the freshest of ingredients, the crowd is drawn to this dhaba by its heart-warming warmth. Taste the renowned ‘Mawa Naan’ and ‘Mawa Roti’, both of which are produced with fresh cow milk.

          Route: On the way from Delhi to Jaipur

          Cost for two: INR 500

Sunny Da Dhaba

This is one of the most iconic Highway Dhabas for sure due to its amazing highway location and mouth-watering food. This Highway dhaba is a favourite hangout for Mumbai and Pune residents, and its Rajoli Kabab and Tandoori Pomfret are must-tries!

            Route: Mumbai/Pune to Lonavala 

            Cost for two: INR 1,700

Amrik Sukhdev

Amrik Sukhdev began as a tiny roadside eatery catering to truck drivers, but it has since evolved into a popular location for tourists, young people, and couples. Even after so many years, the food’s flavour has not changed. The Paranthas here are to die for, served with plenty of white butter and a tall drink of Lassi.

           Location: On the way from Delhi to Haryana

            Cost for two: INR 400

Hotel Ummiya Annapurna Kathiyawad

This is one of the Highway dhabas where you may sample some of Gujarat’s centuries-old Kathiawar cuisine, which is prepared seasonally and liberally with spices. But what sets this dhaba apart from the rest is its use of firewood for cooking, which gives it a distinct flavour. Lassan Aaloo and Besan Gatta are two dishes that are worth trying.

           Route: On NH-8 in Gujarat

           Cost for two: INR 500

Karnal Haveli

Karnal Haveli is an urban, fashionable, and sophisticated dhaba that serves real Punjabi cuisine. The restaurant offers a little replica of Punjab, with flavors from all over the world. Amritsari chole, kadhi, parathas, and lassi are must-haves.

          Route: On NH1 in Karnal

          Cost for two: INR 500

Ramdev Dhaba

Enjoy some of the most wonderful Rajasthani cuisines at Ramdev Dhaba. This restaurant, located in Nigdi on the Mumbai-Pune Highway, is a terrific spot to satisfy your appetite. Dal Baati and Rabdi are two of the specialties here.

           Route: On NH1 in Karnal

           Cost for two: INR 500

Haveli Heritage

Haveli is one of the traditional themed Punjabi Highway dhabas in India which perfectly depicts the rich heritage of Punjab. There are elements like a life-size truck, a dummy well, colourful bangles that add up to the ethnicity of the place.

          Route: On the way from Delhi to Karnal          

          Cost for two: INR 800

Bhajan Tadka Dhaba

Stopping at the Bhajan Tadka Dhaba will lead you to discover a dhaba with that old-school rustic charm, thatched roof and meals that remind you of home. It’s a lovely dhaba where you can get delicious food at reasonable prices. Paneer Butter Masala, kadhi pakora and garlic lachha paratha are all must-haves.

            Route: On NH 24 in Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh

           Cost for two: INR 350

Lucky Dhaba

It is strategically located on the highway and is air-conditioned, allowing you to enjoy your meal at your leisure. Breakfast is highly recommended, and their steaming chai is highly recommended. Their Mix Veg, Yellow Daal and Missi Roti, Tandoori Roti, and Laccha Paranthas are fantastic for larger meals.

           Route: in NH1 in Jalandhar

           Cost for two: INR 600

The next time you’re on the road and need to refuel, stop by one of these dhabas to experience the homely atmosphere and make room for an authentic meal coming your way!

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