The first thing that comes in your mind when we say rain is – kande bhajis and a hot cup of coffee. On one side while pakoras and chai are the classic monsoon food item; this beautiful city brings in a much bigger plate that is even more delightful.
From street corners to cozy cafes, Pune’s snack scene during the monsoon season is not less than any celebration of flavour, warmth, and comfort.
So, if you’re ready to get out of the pakora food scene and are looking for something new and equally interesting, here are 7 unique Pune monsoon snacks to try this rainy season:
1. Kanda Bhaji Misal – A Crunchy-Tangy Fusion
Why to stop eating plain pakoras when they can be as interesting as the Kanda Bhaji Misal that this city offers. It’s a combination of crispy onion fritters that are dipped into hot, spicy tarri. A pinch of lemon and chopped onions adds the perfect taste, making it an ideal dish.
Where to try: Bedekar Misal, Narayan Peth
2. Bhutte Ka Kees – Rain on a Plate
Coming from a long way, this dish is originated from Indore. It’s a dish that consists of grated corn sauteed with mustard seeds, green chillies, and a pinch of asafoetida that is creamy, and incredibly comforting.
Where to try: Vaishali, FC Road or homemade versions at local Maharashtrian kitchens
3. Tandoori Momos – A Smoky Twist
The good news for momo lovers – tandoori momos. A different taste, not steamed or fried. These tandoori momos are the new monsoon stars in Pune’s food scene. Crunchy on the outside and juicy and soft in the inside, they’re delivered with a fiery red chutney and a side of mayo.
Where to try: Momo’s Station, Viman Nagar or Café Peter’s outlets across Pune
4. Sweet Potato Chaat (Shakarkandi)
Smoky, warm sweet potatoes mixed with spicy and sweet masala and lime juice are the perfect healthy-yet tasty snack especially for rainy days. It’s hot, stomach-filling, and surprisingly addictive.
Where to try: Local street vendors near Saras Baug and Deccan Gymkhana
5. Sabudana Vada Sliders
Sabudana vada – this is such a classic snack that can’t be replaced easily. Take the vada, support it with a green chutney, and sandwich it in a pav. A crispy, spicy, and satisfying monsoon snack that mises with the tradition with fun.
Where to try: Aaswad Pav Bhaji & Snacks, Aundh
6. Ukadiche Modak with Ghee
Ukadiche Modak is introduced from the earliest tradition – being the Ganeshotsav. It is a treat that included steamed modaks with ghee and jaggery. This is a snack that is completely sweet and yet falls in the list of the best snacks. It’s literally a comfort food but with a divine touch.
Where to try: Chitale Bandhu or Modak Café, Sadashiv Peth
7. Masala Corn Chaat in a Kulhad
You must have drank hot chai from a kulhad or a clay cup. Pune’s monsoon evenings are ideal for this earthy munch. Offered piping hot in a kulhad, the combination of spiced corn, butter, lime, and chaat masala is a simple yet easy recipe that brings pure happiness on drizzly days.
Where to try: Corn stalls at JM Road, FC Road, or monsoon pop-ups in Koregaon Park
Monsoon is not just a season in Pune – it’s an entire emotion, that every person living in Pune can relate too and counts on each year. Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a solo date in the rain, these snacks go beyond the pakora cliché and show you the actual food culture and scene of Pune’s Street food.
