Dine
Restaurantes
From rooftop Ganga-view cafes to century-old chaat stalls — Varanasi's dining scene is deeply personal.
Brown Bread Bakery
Famous rooftop cafe with Ganga views. International menu with excellent coffee, fresh bread, and Rajasthani fare. Beloved by backpackers.
⭐ Known for: Rooftop Ganga views, fresh bakery
⏰ 8 AM – 10 PM
Aadha-Aadha
Cozy rooftop restaurant near Assi Ghat. Excellent North Indian thalis and Banarasi specialities in a relaxed setting.
⭐ Known for: Banarasi thali, dal bati churma
⏰ 7 AM – 10 PM
Sarnath
Fine dining at the ITC Hotel with heritage interiors. Best upscale dining in Varanasi. Exceptional Dum Pukht cuisine.
⭐ Known for: Dum Pukht, Mughlai, Awadhi
⏰ 12 PM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11 PM
Pappu Tea Shop
The most famous tea stall in Varanasi. Sitting on the steps at sunrise with a clay cup of chai is a rite of passage.
⭐ Known for: Banarasi masala chai
⏰ 5 AM – 10 PM
Kashi Chaat Bhandar
The definitive chaat experience. Tamatar chaat, kachori, and dahi puri in a no-frills setting that locals have sworn by for generations.
⭐ Known for: Tamatar chaat, kachori sabzi
⏰ 9 AM – 9 PM
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe
Rooftop dining with unexpectedly good pizzas alongside Indian staples. Popular with international visitors.
⭐ Known for: Wood-fired pizza, pasta, Indian breakfast
⏰ 7:30 AM – 10 PM
Keshari Restaurant
Varanasi's best South Indian food — crispy dosas, idli-sambar, and filter coffee at street-food prices.
⭐ Known for: Masala dosa, idli sambar, filter coffee
⏰ 7 AM – 9 PM
Lotus Lounge
Rooftop restaurant overlooking Manikarnika Ghat — the view is profound and humbling. Light menu, great for contemplative evenings.
⭐ Known for: Rooftop views, continental snacks
⏰ 8 AM – 10 PM