10 Viral Indian Street Foods You’ve Never Heard Of — But Must Try!

India's streets are a paradise for food lovers. We all know about pani puri, vada pav, and chole bhature. But what about the hidden gems — those offbeat street foods that locals love, but the world hasn’t discovered yet?

In this blog, we bring you 10 lesser-known Indian street foods that are going viral on social media for all the right reasons. Trust us — your taste buds will thank you later!

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🌶️ 1. Lukmi – Hyderabad’s Crispy Secret

Origin: Hyderabad

A cousin of the samosa, Lukmi is a flaky, square pastry filled with spicy minced meat or lentils. Its crispness and royal Mughlai flavor make it unforgettable.

Why it’s viral: Food vloggers are calling it “Hyderabad’s best-kept secret.”

🌽 2. Bhutte ka Kees – Indore’s Corn Delight

Origin: Indore, Madhya Pradesh

Grated corn, slow-cooked with milk, spices, and ghee. This street snack melts in your mouth and has a unique sweet-spicy balance.

Best part? It's healthy, light, and full of flavor.

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🍗 3. Kalari Cheese – Jammu’s Melting Magic

Origin: Jammu & Kashmir

Imagine mozzarella, but Indian. Kalari is a traditional Dogri cheese deep-fried until golden and gooey. Served in a bun, it’s the ultimate desi burger.

Fun fact: It’s becoming a sensation on Instagram reels!

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🍞 4. Bun Tikki – Lucknow’s Royal Bite

Origin: Lucknow

Move over vada pav! This is a rich Awadhi-style potato tikki sandwiched in a buttered bun with tangy chutneys and crisp onions.

Why it's booming: It’s nostalgia + Nawabi taste in one bite.

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🥟 5. Momos with Red Chutney – Sikkim’s Spicy Soul

Origin: Sikkim/North-East

Not just Delhi’s street momos — the authentic ones from the North-East are steamed to perfection and served with a fiery fermented red chili chutney.

Pro tip: Have it with thukpa for the full experience.

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🫓 6. Chhena Jhili – Odisha’s Hidden Dessert

Origin: Nimapada, Odisha

Soft cheese balls fried and dipped in sugary syrup, Chhena Jhili is Odisha’s best-kept sweet secret.

Why it’s viral: Food bloggers call it “Rasgulla’s romantic cousin.”

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🍢 7. Suttu Kathi Roll – Kolkata’s Smoky Revolution

Origin: Kolkata

Unlike normal Kathi rolls, Suttu Kathi is roasted over charcoal for a smoky flavor. Think juicy kebabs + roasted paratha + chutneys = street food heaven.

Catch it on reels: Street vendors are setting it on fire (literally) before serving!

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🥜 8. Sundal – Chennai’s Coastal Snack

Origin: Tamil Nadu

A simple yet addictive snack made of boiled chickpeas, mustard seeds, grated coconut, and curry leaves.

Why it matters: It’s viral for being delicious and protein-packed.

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🍖 9. Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot – Nagaland

Origin: Nagaland

This smoky, earthy delicacy made with bamboo shoot and chili is fiery, flavorful, and unforgettable.

Why it’s trending: It’s being showcased by travel vloggers for its authentic tribal taste.

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🍲 10. Thattai Idli – Karnataka’s Tiny Wonder

Origin: Karnataka

Miniature idlis sautéed with ghee, curry leaves, and podi masala. Bite-sized, spicy, and viral for their cute shape and big flavor.

Instagram favorite: #MiniIdliMadness is a thing!

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These dishes aren’t just viral because they look good — they tell a story. A story of regional pride, secret family recipes, and street vendors who’ve mastered their art over decades.

They’re the soul of India, served on a plate — one hot bite at a time.