Food & Shopping

Food & Shopping

Though Korba is known for its coal and power industries, the city offers a flavorful local food scene and growing markets that reflect tribal influences, local crafts, and traditional snacks. From spicy street food to authentic Chhattisgarhi cuisine and vibrant shopping spots, here's your guide to the best food and shopping experiences in Korba.

 Must-Try Food in Korba

 1. Chhattisgarhi Thali – Local Flavors on a Plate

Experience traditional Chhattisgarhi dishes like:

• Faraa – steamed rice dumplings
• Chana bhaji, Aamat (tribal-style curry)
• Chousela roti, Dal, and Khurma (sweet)

 Try at:
✔️ Maa Durga Bhojanalay, Transport Nagar
✔️ Chhattisgarhi Rasoi, near Darri
✔️ Local dhabas on the Korba–Katghora road

 2. Street Snacks & Chaat

Korba’s streets come alive in the evening with:

• Chana Samosa – a local favorite
• Aloo Chaat, Papdi Chaat, and Dahi Puri
• Jalebi-Poha for a typical breakfast combo

 Best spots:
✔️ Transport Nagar Street Lane
✔️ Kosabadi Chowk
✔️ Rani Road near Mahila Market

 3. Dhaba Food & Non-Veg Delights

• Try spicy chicken curry, egg bhurji, or desi mutton at local dhabas
• Best enjoyed with roti or rice in traditional seating

 Try at:
✔️ Saini Dhaba, Katghora Road
✔️ Highway Treat, near Darri Bypass

 4. Local Sweets & Refreshments

Don’t miss:

• Rabri Jalebi, Khoya Barfi, Tilkut, and Mahua laddus
• Seasonal snacks like chikki, thandai, and fruit kulfi

 Best at:
✔️ Gupta Sweets, Rani Road
✔️ Lal Sweets, Transport Nagar
✔️ Sweet stalls during festive haats

 What to Buy in Korba

 1. Tribal Handicrafts & Bamboo Items

From nearby tribal villages, you can find:

• Handwoven baskets, bamboo flutes, wooden toys
• Clay idols, terracotta items, and tribal jewelry

 Best during:
✔️ Local weekly markets (haats)
✔️ Cultural festivals like Navakhana, Pola, Diwali

 Tip: Ask locals about village artisans who visit markets on weekends.

 2. Traditional Fabrics & Casual Wear

• While not a major textile hub, Korba’s markets offer:
  ✅ Daily-wear kurtis, sarees, and dupattas
  ✅ Light handloom materials and regional patterns
  ✅ Bags, stoles, and home items

 Shop at:
✔️ Kosabadi Market
✔️ Agrasen Chowk
✔️ Mahila Market, Rani Road

 3. Local Snacks & Packaged Foods

Great for taking home:

• Chana mix, sev, namkeen packs, and dry sweets
• Herbal products, tribal masalas, and natural oils (from local stalls)

 Available at:
✔️ Bhatia Namkeen, Kosabadi
✔️ Local grocers near bus stand

 Top Shopping Areas in Korba

✅ Food & Shopping Tips for Korba

✔️ Visit markets in the evening (5–8 PM) when they're busiest and most vibrant
✔️ Carry cash or UPI apps — many stalls don’t accept cards
✔️ Taste local snacks on the spot — ask vendors for fresh batches
✔️ Bargaining is okay, especially in weekly haats or open stalls
✔️ For authentic items, look for tribal cooperatives or cultural exhibitions