Ratlam offers a delightful culinary journey blending Malwa flavors, Rajasthani influences, and unique local specialties. Here is your complete dining guide:
1. Kwality Restaurant
Location: Manek Chowk, Near Old City
Timing: 11 AM – 11 PM
Average Cost: ₹400-600 for two
Cuisine: North Indian, Mughlai
Specialties:
- Mutton Rogan Josh
- Dal Makhani
- Tandoori Platter
- Paneer Butter Masala
- Fresh Naan varieties
Why Visit: Consistent quality for 40+ years. Family-friendly ambiance.
Tips: Dinner reservations recommended on weekends. Try their special raita.
2. Bhawani Restaurant & Sweet House
Location: Gandhi Chowk, City Center
Timing: 8 AM – 10:30 PM
Average Cost: ₹250-400 for two
Cuisine: Pure Vegetarian, Sweets, Snacks
Specialties:
- Ratlami Sev (freshly prepared)
- Kachori with Aloo Sabzi
- Mawa Jalebi
- Special Gujarati Thali
- Seasonal Sweets (Diwali/Holi specials)
Why Visit: Legendary 60-year-old establishment. Best for local snacks and sweets shopping.
Tips: Buy packaged sev for gifting. Evening snack time (4-7 PM) is bustling.
3. Hotel Meghdoot Restaurant
Location: Station Road, Near Railway Station
Timing: 7 AM – 11 PM
Average Cost: ₹300-500 for two
Cuisine: Multi-cuisine, Indian, Chinese
Specialties:
- Poha-Jalebi (Breakfast specialty)
- Malwa Thali (Complete traditional meal)
- Butter Chicken (North Indian favorite)
- Local Sabzis with Makki ki Roti
Why Visit: Perfect first stop for tourists arriving by train. Authentic local breakfast experience.
Tips: Breakfast gets crowded 8-10 AM. Try their special lassi.
4. Hotel Anand Palace Restaurant
Location: Geeta Bhawan Road
Timing: 7 AM – 11 PM
Average Cost: ₹350-550 for two
Cuisine: Multi-cuisine, Bar available
Specialties:
- Chicken Tikka
- Veg Kolhapuri
- Chinese Soup varieties
- Bar snacks with drinks
- Room service available
Why Visit: Hotel restaurant with comfortable seating. Good for dinner dates.
Tips: AC section available. Parking within hotel premises.
5. Gurukripa Restaurant
Location: Tilak Path, New City Area
Timing: 10 AM – 10:30 PM
Average Cost: ₹200-350 for two
Cuisine: South Indian, Fast Food
Specialties:
- Masala Dosa (crispy and large)
- Idli-Sambar
- Pav Bhaji
- Chinese Bhel
- Fresh Fruit Juices
Why Visit: Clean, hygienic, and quick service. Great for light meals.
Tips: Morning South Indian breakfast is excellent. Self-service system.
LOCAL FOOD SPECIALTIES TO TRY
Breakfast Must-Haves:
- Poha with Jalebi – Sweet and savory combo
- Kachori with Aloo Sabzi – Spicy and filling
- Sabudana Khichdi – During fasting seasons
Street Food Delights:
- Ratlami Sev (multiple varieties)
- Bhutte ka Kees (grated corn)
- Garlic Chutney Sandwiches
- Sugarcane Juice with masala
Main Course Specials:
- Malwa Thali – Complete vegetarian meal
- Dal Bafla – Baked wheat balls with dal
- Kadhi Pakora – Yogurt-based curry
- Makai Roti with Lehsun Chutney
Sweets & Desserts:
- Mawa Jalebi
- Gulab Jamun
- Malpua
- Seasonal Gujiya (during Holi)
AREA-WISE DINING GUIDE
Around Railway Station:
- Quick Bites: Platform vendors (poha, tea)
- Sit-down: Hotel Meghdoot, Railway Retiring Rooms
- Late Night: 24-hour tea stalls
City Center (Gandhi Chowk):
- Family Dining: Bhawani, Kwality
- Street Food: Chowk area evening stalls
- Sweets: Multiple sweet shops
New City Area:
- Modern Cafes: Emerging coffee shops
- Fast Food: Pizza/burger outlets
- Bakeries: Fresh bread and pastry shops
MEAL TIMING GUIDE
Breakfast (7-10 AM):
- Best spots: Hotel Meghdoot, Gurukripa
- What to eat: Poha-Jalebi, Kachori, Dosa
Lunch (12-3 PM):
- Best spots: Kwality, Bhawani
- What to eat: Thali, North Indian combos
Evening Snacks (4-7 PM):
- Best spots: Street stalls, sweet shops
- What to eat: Sev varieties, tea, pakoras
Dinner (7:30-10:30 PM):
- Best spots: Hotel Anand, Kwality
- What to eat: Mughlai, Chinese, full meals
BUDGET GUIDE
Budget (₹100-200 per person):
- Street food
- Breakfast joints
- Small restaurants
Mid-range (₹200-400 per person):
- Bhawani Restaurant
- Gurukripa
- Local dhabas
Premium (₹400+ per person):
- Hotel Meghdoot
- Kwality Restaurant
- Hotel Anand
Pro Tip: Start your culinary journey with a simple poha-jalebi breakfast, explore street snacks in the evening, and end with a proper Malwa thali dinner. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations – Ratlam residents are proud of their food culture!
Enjoy the Flavors of Ratlam!
