Lonavala’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Maharashtrian flavors and popular Indian dishes, making it one of the best food spots in Lonavala for travelers seeking authentic tastes. The star attraction is chikki, a sweet brittle made from peanuts or other nuts and jaggery, perfect for a quick snack or souvenir. Street food is another highlight, with vada pav (spicy potato fritter sandwich), misal pav (spicy lentil curry with bread), pav bhaji (spiced vegetable mash with bread), and bhel puri (puffed rice snack) being local favorites. These affordable treats are widely available at market stalls and roadside vendors, and exploring them is a must for anyone discovering the best food spots in Lonavala and its vibrant food culture.

Guide to Lonavala’s Culinary Scene

Lonavala, perched in the scenic Sahyadri ranges just 90 km from Mumbai and 60 km from Pune, is not only a hill station retreat but also a paradise for food lovers. Famous for its crunchy chikki, piping-hot street snacks, and hearty Maharashtrian thalis, the town offers a mix of old-world flavors and modern culinary experiences. Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets lined with local vendors, sipping tea at a roadside stall with a valley view, or indulging in gourmet dining at hillside resorts, Lonavala serves up something for every palate. This guide will take you through its most iconic foods, must-visit eateries, and insider tips for savoring the best of its culinary charm.

Why Lonavala for Foodies?

Lonavala’s culinary appeal stems from its rich Maharashtrian heritage, influenced by the Konkan coast and Deccan plateau, combined with its status as a tourist hub. The region’s fertile lands support fresh produce, which is showcased in farm-to-table dining at resorts and local eateries. Chikki, a traditional sweet made from peanuts or other nuts and jaggery, is a local specialty with a long shelf life, perfect for travelers. The street food scene is vibrant, offering affordable and flavorful snacks like vada pav, misal pav, and pav bhaji, which capture the essence of Maharashtrian cuisine. Upscale restaurants, many located within resorts like Della, provide diverse options, from North Indian curries to Parsi delicacies and international dishes. The best time to explore Lonavala’s food scene is October to March, when pleasant weather (15°C–25°C) enhances outdoor dining, though the monsoon season (June–September) adds a lush, scenic backdrop to meals.

Top Culinary Experiences in Lonavala

Below is a curated list of the best food experiences in Lonavala, organized into categories to align with the user’s request for the best food, chikki, and restaurants. Each entry includes detailed information on location, dishes, prices, ratings, and recommendations, drawn from recent reviews and reliable sources.

1. Chikki: Lonavala’s Signature Sweet

Chikki is Lonavala’s most famous culinary export, a hard candy made from peanuts, cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds mixed with jaggery or sugar. Its long shelf life and energy-packed nature make it a popular souvenir for tourists.

• Chikki Centre
  • Location: Lonavala Main Market, near Railway Station (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A renowned shop offering a variety of chikki flavors, including peanut, cashew, and sesame. Known for its fresh ingredients and authentic taste, it’s a must-visit for chikki lovers.
  • Dishes: Peanut chikki, cashew chikki, sesame chikki, chocolate chikki
  • Price: ₹100–₹300 per kg (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on TripAdvisor reviews, [www.tripadvisor.in]
  • Recommendations: Buy in bulk for gifting or souvenirs. Try the chocolate chikki for a modern twist. Visit early to avoid crowds.
  • Why Visit: Offers high-quality, authentic chikki, perfect for a sweet treat or takeaway.
• Gupta Chikki
  • Location: Mumbai-Pune Highway, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A trusted name for traditional chikki, Gupta Chikki is popular for its consistent quality and variety. It’s a go-to spot for tourists looking to stock up on this iconic sweet.
  • Dishes: Peanut chikki, almond chikki, mixed nut chikki
  • Price: ₹100–₹250 per kg (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.0/5 (based on Justdial reviews, [www.justdial.com]
  • Recommendations: Pair with a hot chai from nearby stalls for a classic experience. Check for freshness before buying.
  • Why Visit: A reliable spot for traditional chikki at affordable prices.

2. Street Food: Vibrant and Flavorful

Lonavala’s street food offers affordable, spicy Maharashtrian snacks—perfect quick bites near Bhushi Dam or the main market.

• Golden Vada Pav
  • Location: NH4, Mumbai-Pune Highway, Gautam Park Society, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A 60-year-old eatery famous for its flavorful vada pav, especially the Jain (garlic-free) version. The stall is always bustling, ensuring fresh preparations.
  • Dishes: Vada pav, moong dal bhaji, samosas
  • Price: ₹15–₹50 per item (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Wanderlog reviews.
  • Recommendations: Try the vada pav with chili paste for an extra kick. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.
  • Why Visit: A must-visit for authentic, budget-friendly street food.
• Gupta Vadapav
  • Location: Lonavala Main Market (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: Another popular spot for vada pav, known for its spicy potato fritters and unlimited green chilies. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
  • Dishes: Vada pav, bhel puri, misal pav
  • Price: ₹15–₹50 per item (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.0/5 (based on LBB reviews)
  • Recommendations: Ask for extra chutney for added flavor. Pair with a glass of sugarcane juice from nearby stalls.
  • Why Visit: Offers a quick and tasty street food experience in the heart of Lonavala.
• Main Market Stalls
  • Location: Lonavala Main Market, near Railway Station (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: The bustling market teems with stalls serving misal pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, and bhajiyas, especially lively in the evenings with authentic Maharashtrian street food.
  • Dishes: Misal pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, bhajiyas, sabudana vada
  • Price: ₹20–₹100 per item (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.0/5 (based on general traveler feedback)
  • Recommendations: Choose stalls with high turnover for fresher food. Try the misal pav with extra farsan for a crunchy texture.
  • Why Visit: A vibrant way to experience Lonavala’s street food culture.

3. Top Restaurants in Lonavala

Lonavala’s restaurants range from casual dhabas to upscale dining venues, offering a mix of Maharashtrian, North Indian, South Indian, and international cuisines. Many are located within resorts, providing scenic dining experiences.

• Hotel Rama Krishna
  • Location: Mumbai-Pune Highway, Gawliwada, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A well-established restaurant with over four decades of experience, Hotel Rama Krishna is known for its North and South Indian dishes, fast food, and desserts. Favorites include pav bhaji, chicken biryani, and dosas, served in a family-friendly setting.
  • Dishes: Pav bhaji, chicken biryani, dosas, idli-sambar, sandwiches
  • Price: ₹1,300 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on TripAdvisor reviews, [www.tripadvisor.in]
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹200–₹400) or auto-rickshaw (₹100–₹200) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Ideal for families; try the pav bhaji for a flavorful experience. 
  • Why Visit: Offers a diverse menu and reliable quality for a casual dining experience.
• Café 24
  • Location: Della Resorts, Lonavala (18.7167° N, 73.4167° E)
  • Description: A 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant at Della Resorts, Café 24 offers Indian, Asian, and Continental dishes. It’s renowned for its elaborate breakfast buffet and Sunday brunch, making it a great spot for any time of day.
  • Dishes: Tandoori chicken, Thai curry, pasta, mixed berries ice cream
  • Price: ₹1,500 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Della Resorts reviews)
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹300–₹500) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Perfect for late-night cravings or a leisurely brunch. 
  • Why Visit: Combines fine dining with a scenic resort setting, ideal for a relaxed meal.
• The Vertigo High Dine
  • Location: Della Resorts, Lonavala (18.7167° N, 73.4167° E)
  • Description: A unique dining experience 160 feet above ground, offering a set menu with a five-course meal (soup, starters, main course, dessert, mocktail). The breathtaking views of Lonavala’s hills enhance the dining experience.
  • Dishes: Set menu with Indian and Continental options
  • Price: ₹2,500 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on The Vertigo reviews.
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹300–₹500) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Book in advance via [thevertigo.in]([invalid url, do not cite]) for this exclusive experience. Ideal for special occasions.
  • Why Visit: Offers a memorable dining experience with unparalleled views.
• The Kinara Village Dhaba
  • Location: Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A rustic dhaba serving traditional Indian cuisine, including Maharashtrian and North Indian dishes like pitla bhakri and tandoori chicken. The open-air setting adds to the charm.
  • Dishes: Pitla bhakri, tandoori chicken, paneer tikka
  • Price: ₹1,200 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Wanderlog reviews.
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹200–₹400) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Try the pitla bhakri for an authentic Maharashtrian experience. Visit for lunch to enjoy the rustic ambiance.
  • Why Visit: Perfect for hearty, traditional meals in a cozy setting.
• Parsi Dhaba
  • Location: Della Resorts, Lonavala (18.7167° N, 73.4167° E)
  • Description: Specializes in authentic Parsi cuisine, offering dishes like dhansak curry and patra ni machi, served in a vibrant resort setting.
  • Dishes: Dhansak curry, patra ni machi, berry pulao
  • Price: ₹1,500 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Della Resorts reviews)
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹300–₹500) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Ideal for those exploring unique cuisines. Book a table if staying at Della Resorts.
  • Why Visit: Offers a rare taste of Parsi flavors in a scenic environment.
• Desi Elements
  • Location: Valvan, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: Run by Mumbai residents Chhaya and Ketan Savla, this eatery focuses on clean, healthy meals using homegrown ingredients. The menu includes chole-poori, curd rice, and khakras, with advance orders required for freshness.
  • Dishes: Chole-poori, curd rice, ragada patties, khakras
  • Price: ₹1,000 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Condé Nast Traveller India reviews, [www.cntraveller.in].
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹200–₹400) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Call ahead (+91-98212 44673) to order, as food is prepared fresh. Try the desserts for a sweet finish.
  • Why Visit: Perfect for health-conscious foodies seeking fresh, homegrown meals.
• Kunverbai’s Kitchen
  • Location: Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: Run by Ashok and Chandni Shah, this eatery serves Gujarati and Rajasthani thalis in a 158-year-old house, using vegetables from their family farm. The traditional setting adds a cultural touch.
  • Dishes: Gujarati thali, Rajasthani thali, khichdi
  • Price: ₹1,200 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Condé Nast Traveller India reviews)
  • How to Reach: Accessible by taxi (₹200–₹400) from Lonavala Railway Station.
  • Recommendations: Book in advance for dine-in, as the restaurant is under renovation (check status via [www.cntraveller.in]. Try the thali for a wholesome meal.
  • Why Visit: Offers an authentic regional dining experience in a historical setting.

4. Other Notable Eateries

For additional dining options, consider these spots:

• Sattva The Café
  • Location: Kaivalyadhama Health and Yoga Research Center, Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: Offers healthy meals, including cold-pressed juices, parathas, and sandwiches, in a serene wellness setting.
  • Dishes: Parathas, sandwiches, cold-pressed juices
  • Price: ₹800 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on Condé Nast Traveller India reviews)
  • Recommendations: Ideal for a light, nutritious meal after a morning hike. Visit between 10:00 AM–6:45 PM.
  • Why Visit: Perfect for health-conscious families or those seeking a refreshing break.
• Pop Tate’s
  • Location: Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A popular chain known for its burgers, sandwiches, and fast food, offering a casual dining experience.
  • Dishes: Burgers, sandwiches, pizzas
  • Price: ₹1,000 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on EazyDiner reviews, [www.eazydiner.com]
  • Recommendations: Great for a quick, familiar meal. Check for seasonal specials.
  • Why Visit: A reliable spot for fast food lovers.
• Barbeque Nation
  • Location: Lonavala (18.7500° N, 73.4000° E)
  • Description: A well-known chain offering a wide range of barbecue dishes, ideal for groups and families.
  • Dishes: Barbecue platters, kebabs, biryani
  • Price: ₹1,500 for two (approx.)
  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on EazyDiner reviews)
  • Recommendations: Book in advance for group dining. Try the barbecue platters for a shared experience.
  • Why Visit: Offers a fun, interactive dining experience.

5. Planning Your Culinary Adventure

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Pleasant weather (15°C–25°C) makes dining outdoors enjoyable, especially at open-air dhabas or market stalls.
• June to September (Monsoon): Lush greenery enhances the dining experience, particularly at resort restaurants with scenic views. Check weather forecasts to avoid heavy rain disrupting outdoor dining.

How to Reach Lonavala

• By Road: Lonavala is 90 km from Mumbai (2 hours via NH48) and 60 km from Pune (1.5 hours via NH48). Taxis (₹2,000–₹3,000) or state buses (₹100–₹200) are available.
• By Train: Lonavala Railway Station is well-connected to Mumbai (₹50–₹150, 1.5–2 hours) and Pune (₹50–₹100, 1 hour) on the Mumbai-Pune line. From the station, eateries are accessible by taxi (₹200–₹400) or auto-rickshaw (₹100–₹200).
• By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (90 km) is the nearest, followed by a taxi ride (₹2,000–₹3,000).

Local Cuisine

Lonavala’s culinary scene is rooted in Maharashtrian traditions, with dishes like pitla bhakri (spicy gram flour curry with flatbread), sabudana vada (tapioca fritters), and chikki being staples. Many restaurants and resorts offer farm-to-table dining, using fresh, local ingredients to enhance the dining experience.

Safety and Practical Tips

• Reservations: Book upscale restaurants like Café 24, The Vertigo High Dine, or Kunverbai’s Kitchen in advance, especially on weekends, via platforms like [www.zomato.com] or [www.eazydiner.com].
• Hygiene: For street food, choose stalls with high customer turnover to ensure freshness. Resorts and established restaurants maintain high hygiene standards.
• Cash: Carry cash for street stalls and small eateries, as digital payments may not always be available.
• Timing: Street stalls typically operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while restaurants like Café 24 are open 24 hours. Check specific hours for smaller venues.
• Safety: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food from street vendors during monsoon to prevent health issues. Follow “Leave No Trace” principles to preserve Lonavala’s environment.
• Emergency Contact: Lonavala Police (+91-2114-273333).

 Comparative Table

Food Experience	Location	Key Dishes	Price (Per Person)	Rating	Recommendations
Chikki Centre	Lonavala Main Market	Peanut chikki, cashew chikki	₹100–₹300/kg	4.5/5	Buy in bulk, try chocolate chikki
Gupta Chikki	Mumbai-Pune Highway	Peanut chikki, almond chikki	₹100–₹250/kg	4.0/5	Pair with chai, check freshness
Golden Vada Pav	Mumbai-Pune Highway	Vada pav, moong dal bhaji	₹15–₹50	4.5/5	Try chili paste, avoid peak hours
Gupta Vadapav	Lonavala Main Market	Vada pav, misal pav	₹15–₹50	4.0/5	Extra chutney, pair with sugarcane juice
Main Market Stalls	Lonavala Main Market	Misal pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri	₹20–₹100	4.0/5	Choose busy stalls, try misal pav
Hotel Rama Krishna	Mumbai-Pune Highway	Pav bhaji, chicken biryani, dosas	₹650 (for two)	4.5/5	Book for peak seasons, try pav bhaji
Café 24	Della Resorts	Tandoori chicken, Thai curry, pasta	₹750 (for two)	4.5/5	Book Sunday brunch, late-night option
The Vertigo High Dine	Della Resorts	Set menu (Indian, Continental)	₹1,250 (for two)	4.5/5	Book in advance, ideal for special occasions
The Kinara Village Dhaba	Old Mumbai-Pune Highway	Pitla bhakri, tandoori chicken	₹600 (for two)	4.5/5	Try pitla bhakri, lunch visit
Parsi Dhaba	Della Resorts	Dhansak curry, patra ni machi	₹750 (for two)	4.5/5	Book with resort stay, try Parsi dishes
Desi Elements	Valvan, Lonavala	Chole-poori, curd rice	₹500 (for two)	4.5/5	Call ahead, try desserts
Kunverbai’s Kitchen	Lonavala	Gujarati/Rajasthani thali	₹600 (for two)	4.5/5	Book in advance, check renovation status
Sattva The Café	Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala	Parathas, juices, sandwiches	₹400 (for two)	4.5/5	Light meal, visit post-hike
Pop Tate’s	Lonavala	Burgers, sandwiches, pizzas	₹500 (for two)	4.5/5	Quick meal, check specials
Barbeque Nation	Lonavala	Barbecue platters, kebabs	₹750 (for two)	4.5/5	Book for groups, try platters

Wrapping Up Your Culinary Journey in Lonavala

From sizzling street snacks to charming cafés and fine-dining gems, Lonavala is truly a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, exploring the best food spots in Lonavala is an experience you won’t want to miss. These local flavors not only satisfy your taste buds but also connect you to the town’s warm, vibrant culture.

And while your stomach is happy, why not feed your wanderlust too? Pair your food adventure with sightseeing by checking out our guide to the Top Places to Visit with Families in Lonavala for a complete holiday experience.

So, pack your appetite and let the best food spots in Lonavala be your gateway to an unforgettable trip. And if you’re looking for the perfect homestay to relax after a day of exploring, visit BidYourStay to find curated stays that match your style and budget.