Food & Shopping

Food & Shopping

Aurangabad is a food lover’s paradise, offering a unique mix of Mughlai, Hyderabadi, and Maharashtrian flavors. It’s also a shopping hub known for Paithani sarees, Bidriware, and Himroo shawls. Here’s a detailed guide to must-try food & best shopping places in Aurangabad.

 Best Food in Aurangabad (Must-Try Dishes & Restaurants)

1. Naan Qalia – Aurangabad’s Signature Dish

• A rich, spicy mutton curry served with soft naan.
• Originated in the Mughal kitchens of Aurangzeb.

 Where to Try:
✔️ Kailash Hotel (Authentic & local experience)
✔️ Hotel Apsara (Famous for Mughlai dishes)

2. Aurangabadi Biryani – The Hyderabadi Connection

• A spicy, flavorful biryani with fragrant basmati rice and tender meat.
• Similar to Hyderabadi biryani but with its own twist.

 Best Places for Biryani:
✔️ Yalla Yalla (Local favorite)
✔️ Kareem’s (Authentic Mughlai flavors)
✔️ Green Leaf (Veg Biryani option)

3. Paya Soup & Sheermal

• Paya Soup – A slow-cooked, flavorful bone broth, perfect for winter.
• Sheermal – A sweet, saffron-flavored naan, best paired with kebabs.

 Where to Try:
✔️ Madhur Milan Hotel
✔️ Tandoor Restaurant

4. Kebab Platters & Tandoori Delights

• Aurangabad is famous for melt-in-the-mouth kebabs.
• Try Seekh Kebabs, Boti Kebabs, and Tandoori Chicken.

 Best Kebabs in Town:
✔️ Kareem’s
✔️ Tandoor Restaurant

5. Maharashtrian Thali

• A wholesome meal with puran poli, bhakri, dal, sabzi, rice, and chutney.

 Where to Try:
✔️ Thaat Baat (Authentic Maharashtrian Thali)
✔️ Tandoor Restaurant (Mix of Mughlai & Maharashtrian flavors)

6. Mawa Jalebi – Aurangabad’s Famous Dessert

• A crisp, juicy jalebi made with mawa (khoya), giving it a rich taste.

 Best Places for Mawa Jalebi:
✔️ Tara Pan Centre
✔️ Madhur Sweets

 Shopping in Aurangabad – What to Buy & Where

1. Paithani Sarees – The Queen of Silks

• Handwoven silk sarees with gold & silver zari work.
• One of Maharashtra’s most prized sarees.

 Best Places to Buy:
✔️ Paithani Weaving Centre, Paithan (Authentic handloom experience)
✔️ Gul Mandi Market
✔️ Connaught Place Market

 Tip: Handwoven Paithanis are expensive but worth the investment!

2. Bidriware – Intricate Silver Metalwork

• Traditional black metal handicrafts inlaid with pure silver.
• Used for home décor, jewelry boxes, and souvenirs.

 Where to Buy:
✔️ Himroo Fabrics Showroom
✔️ Bidri Handicrafts Store

 Tip: Look for authentic government-certified stores to avoid fakes.

3. Himroo Shawls & Fabric

• A luxurious blend of silk & cotton, with Persian-inspired designs.

 Best Places to Buy:
✔️ Himroo Factory & Showroom
✔️ Peshwai Himroo

 Tip: Himroo shawls make great souvenirs & gifts!

4. Local Markets for Shopping

5. Street Shopping & Flea Markets

• If you love street shopping & bargaining, visit:
  ✔️ Aurangpura Market (Affordable clothes & accessories)
  ✔️ Shahganj Bazaar (Fresh produce & local goods)

 Tip: Always bargain in local markets for the best deals!

 Pro Travel Tips for Food & Shopping in Aurangabad

✔️ Try street food carefully – Stick to hygienic stalls for snacks.
✔️ Shopping for sarees? Buy from government-approved stores for authenticity.
✔️ Best time to visit markets? Evening (less heat, more local vibe).
✔️ Bargaining? Yes, in local markets, but not in showrooms.
✔️ Mawa Jalebi & Sheermal are must-try desserts!

✔️ Food lovers – Don't miss Naan Qalia, Mawa Jalebi, & Aurangabadi Biryani!
✔️ Shoppers – Grab a Paithani saree, Himroo shawl, and Bidriware souvenirs!
✔️ Budget travelers – Explore street markets for local finds.