Best Highway Dhabas for a Foodie Road Trip in North India

Table of Content

1. Murthal’s Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba (Delhi-Chandigarh Highway, NH44)

2. Puran Singh Ka Dhaba (Delhi-Ambala Highway, NH44)

3. Haveli (Jalandhar-Ludhiana Highway, NH1)

4. Pal Dhaba (Chandigarh)

5. Karnal’s Zhilmil Dhaba (Delhi-Chandigarh Highway, NH44)

6. Rajasthan’s Sharma Dhaba (Jaipur-Sikar Highway, NH52)

7. Mannat Dhaba (Delhi-Katra Highway, NH1)

8. Kesar Da Dhaba (Amritsar)

9. Highway King (Delhi-Jaipur Highway, NH48)

10. Grand Lassi Shop (Punjab-Himachal Highway, NH205)
 

A road trip through North India is an experience like no other, with stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and most importantly, mouth-watering highway dhabas that serve authentic and flavourful food. Whether you are a food lover or a passionate traveller, exploring these legendary dhabas along the highways is a must for anyone looking to savour the best of North Indian cuisine. From smoky tandoori rotis to rich and creamy dals, these roadside eateries bring the true taste of India to life. 

Here’s a guide to some of the best dhabas you must visit on your foodie road trip through North India.
 

1. Murthal’s Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba (Delhi-Chandigarh Highway, NH44)
 

A trip to Murthal, the dhaba capital of India, is incomplete without a stop at Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba. Located on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway, this dhaba is famous for its buttery parathas, served with fresh curd and dollops of white butter. Their tandoori aloo paratha and paneer paratha are legendary, making it a must-visit for breakfast lovers. The place is well-maintained and has evolved into a more modern setting while preserving its traditional flavours. Find the perfect hotel in Delhi and make this road trip a part of your travel experience.
 

2. Puran Singh Ka Dhaba (Delhi-Ambala Highway, NH44)
 

A paradise for non-vegetarians, Puran Singh Ka Dhaba in Ambala is known for its spicy mutton curry and chicken masala, served with tandoori rotis. Located near the bus stand on the Delhi-Ambala highway, this dhaba has been a favourite among truck drivers and food enthusiasts alike. The simplicity of their cooking, rich flavours, and the smoky aroma of the tandoor make it a go-to spot for meat lovers.
 

3. Haveli (Jalandhar-Ludhiana Highway, NH1)
 

For those looking for an authentic Punjabi experience, Haveli in Jalandhar is the perfect place. This dhaba combines traditional Punjabi architecture with an extensive menu of classic North Indian dishes. Their makki di roti with sarson da saag, accompanied by a glass of lassi, is a meal you cannot miss. The ambience, with its village-style decor and traditional music, adds to the overall experience, making it one of the best highway dhabas in Punjab.
 

4. Pal Dhaba (Chandigarh)
 

Located in Chandigarh, Pal Dhaba is an iconic eatery serving delicious and authentic Punjabi food. Known for its butter chicken, dal makhani, and keema naan, this dhaba has been a favourite among locals and travellers for decades. If you’re a fan of rich and creamy gravies with a tandoori twist, Pal Dhaba is the place to be.
 

5. Karnal’s Zhilmil Dhaba (Delhi-Chandigarh Highway, NH44)
 

A hidden gem on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway, Zhilmil Dhaba in Karnal is known for its tandoori rotis, dal tadka, and kadai paneer. The dhaba maintains the traditional rustic charm with charpais (woven beds) and a homely vibe. Their special chai is a perfect companion for those travelling long distances.
 

6. Rajasthan’s Sharma Dhaba (Jaipur-Sikar Highway, NH52)
 

For those exploring Rajasthan, Sharma Dhaba in Jaipur is a well-known stop for delicious Rajasthani flavours. Their signature gatte ki sabzi, dal baati churma, and ker sangri will leave you craving for more. The authenticity of their dishes, prepared with local spices and desi ghee, makes this dhaba a standout choice for a true Rajasthani feast.
 

7. Mannat Dhaba (Delhi-Katra Highway, NH1)
 

If you are heading towards Vaishno Devi or Jammu, Mannat Dhaba on the Delhi-Katra highway is a fantastic stopover. This place is popular for its kadhi pakora, dal makhani, and stuffed naan. The cleanliness, quick service, and reasonable prices make it a top choice among road trippers.
 

8. Kesar Da Dhaba (Amritsar)
 

A road trip to Punjab would be incomplete without visiting Kesar Da Dhaba in Amritsar. This historic dhaba, operational since 1916, is famous for its slow-cooked dal makhani, lachha paratha, and phirni. The smoky tandoori flavours and traditional cooking methods have made this place a timeless favourite among food lovers.
 

9. Highway King (Delhi-Jaipur Highway, NH48)
 

For travellers heading towards Jaipur, Highway King is a popular stop known for its clean atmosphere, quick service, and delicious North Indian meals. Their paneer butter masala, dal fry, and fresh tandoori rotis are highly recommended. They also offer a variety of snacks, making it an ideal place for a short break on the way.

For travellers heading towards Jaipur, you can book a bus from Delhi to Jaipur and make a refreshing stop at Highway King, a popular spot known for its clean atmosphere, quick service, and delicious North Indian meals. Their paneer butter masala, dal fry, and fresh tandoori rotis are highly recommended. They also offer a variety of snacks, making it an ideal place for a short break on the way.

10. Grand Lassi Shop (Punjab-Himachal Highway, NH205)
 

If you are travelling towards Himachal Pradesh, stopping by the Grand Lassi Shop in Punjab is a must. This roadside stall is famous for its thick, creamy lassi served in tall steel glasses, topped with a generous amount of malai (cream). Pair it with some hot aloo parathas for the perfect breakfast.
 

Conclusion
 

A foodie road trip through North India is not just about reaching the destination but also about enjoying the journey through its incredible food culture. From buttery parathas of Murthal to the slow-cooked delicacies of Amritsar, every highway dhaba has its own unique flavour and story to tell. So, the next time you plan a road trip, make sure to take a detour and experience the authentic tandoori trails of North India. Happy eating and safe travels!