What are road trips with family and friends without the joy of sharing delectable food at roadside dhabas. Because the joy there is in eating a simple rustic meal truly stands unparalleled.
So, if you are planning a trip through National Highway 1, we have few options where you can be sure of enjoying a hearty meal before wanderlust takes you further on.
1. Pahalwan Dhaba, Murthal
If you are on your way to Chandigarh, you will come across Murthal. Though there are many many popular dhabas here, Pahalwan Dhaba is one of the oldest joints. It offers paranthas as big as your thali and has loads of variety. You can relish hot parathas with pickles and dollops of freshly made white butter.
Must have: Tandoori paranthas and lassi
Price for two: Rs 300 approx
Timing: 24 hrs all seven days in week
2. Gulshan Dhaba, Sonipat
Another one on this route is Gulshan Dhaba. With modern sitting arrangements and clean toilets, this stop-over is a no-brainer for those on a long journey. And of course when the food is as mouth-watering as the paranthas here, how can you not? The chana masala and butter paneer masala here come highly recommended. You can even order economical thalis here.
Must have: Butter coated stuffed paratha with raita and dal
Price for two: Rs 250 approx
Timing: 24 hrs all seven days in week
3. Haveli, Karnal
If you have been on regular road trips in North India, you’ll know Haveli is everywhere. The one in Karnal is on NH 1 and has beautiful ambiance. Rustic decor, plushly cushioned sitting arrangement and delicious spread of food, they serve food in thalis and water in brass kulhads.
Must have: Amritsari chole and kadhi
Price for two: Rs 650 approx
Timing: 6 am to 11 pm
4. Puran Singh Ka Mashoor Vishal Dhaba, Ambala
Puran Singh Ka Mashoor Vishal Dhaba in Ambala is very popular and has resulted in several copycat food joints. However, the brilliance of the original one is unmatchable. The food is not only delicious but also extremely reasonable.
Must have: Chicken and mutton preparations
Price for two: Rs 500 approx
Timing: 8 am to 4 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm
5. Mr Sanjay Dhaba, Leh
Situated 50 km from Leh on the Srinagar-Leh highway, Mr Sanjay Dhaba is a concrete shack. However, it is one of the most popular dhabas in this route. Get a hot cup of tea, freshly-made paranthas and gobhi ki sabzi here. A perfect place to sit and relax while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Must have: Paranthas and hot tea
Price for two: Rs 300 approx
Timing: 8 am to 10 pm
6. ZIMIDARA DHABA AT SAHNEWAL/LUDHIANA
One of the few dhabas on the way where you still get the server verbally rendering the menu.
Originally started as a vegetarian only place, it now has another space adjoining the original which serves non-vegetarian food. Drop by for some good-old delectable favorites of dal makhni and kadhai paneer amongst many others. By the way, did we mention you get a jug full of buttermilk, complimentary with your order?
