Jaipur, India’s Pink City, is a vibrant mix of history and culture. As soon as you step into the city, it’s like being wrapped in a warm, colorful blanket. The majestic forts, lively markets, and artists creating beautiful fabrics and jewelry transport you back in time.
Food in Jaipur is a journey of its own. From crispy snacks to creamy lassi and spiced chai, there’s something for everyone. This visit, I aimed to see how Jaipur balances its rich royal heritage with a modern flair, particularly its evolving culinary scene. As an Indian chef living in England, I was eager to explore this fusion.
My February trip coincided with wedding season, making hotels hard to find. Luckily, Chef Matt Preston from “MasterChef Australia” shared some tips. My first stop was Anopura, a luxury resort about 21 miles from the city, set in serene mountains. It felt like a peaceful retreat from our tech-filled lives. The resort has only 14 rooms surrounded by gardens and peacocks, reminiscent of my childhood visits to my grandma in Punjab, where the food was always made with care and local ingredients.
At Anopura, I enjoyed a thali—a classic Indian platter—with seasonal vegetables, warm dal, rice, flatbread, and sweet churma. The best part? Chai brewed over an open fire, which was pure bliss.
Next, I stayed at the ITC Rajputana Hotel, located near Jaipur’s city center. While it wasn’t the picture-perfect facade, it offered cozy rooms and great hospitality, making it a good base for exploring. The architecture of the Hawa Mahal nearby is stunning. Built in 1799, this pink sandstone palace allowed royal women to view the city without being seen. Its design keeps the palace cool in the summer, allowing breezes to flow through its intricate windows.
As I explored Jaipur’s culinary scene, I connected with local experts. I visited Lassiwala, renowned for its creamy yogurt drinks served in earthen pots. Rawat and Samrat were next, specializing in kachori snacks. That evening, I dined at Sarvato, co-owned by hotelier Abhishek Honawar and Maharajah Sawai Padmanabh Singh. Their rooftop restaurant offers modern takes on traditional Rajasthani dishes, all while showcasing stunning views of the City Palace.
The following day, I toured the City Palace, rich in history and culture. Each room and courtyard revealed stories of the past. I especially loved the Baradari restaurant, where traditional flavors meet modern design.
Before leaving, I shopped for block-printed fabrics at Ratan and Anokhi. After that, I visited 28 Kothi, a boutique hotel blending comfort and elegance, where I enjoyed a rava dosa paired with fresh coconut water. It felt like a cozy home away from home.
On my final night, I dined at Johri, hidden in a bustling bazaar. The meal was exceptional, from the beautiful pea chaat to the delightful jackfruit biryani. The meal was an explosion of flavors that perfectly captured Jaipur’s spirit.
Jaipur is a city buzzing with life, color, and warmth. It leaves a mark on your heart, not just for its delicious food but for its vibrant culture and welcoming people. There’s something truly enchanting that makes you want to return long after you’ve left.
This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
