Not pani puri and not puchkas, not even gol gappas, in Lucknow it’s simply called pani batashas, and we’ve got our favourite places for them on this list:
ROYAL CAFE
This is where celebs head to for their pani batasha fix in Lucknow. One of the most hygienic places for pani batashas, we would say. The batashas are crispy and the pani is just the right amount of spice.
Price: Rs. 25 for 5 pieces
Timings: 11 am onwards
Location: Opposite Sahu Cinema Hall, Hazratganj and Opposite Sahara Ganj Mall, Shah Najaf Road, Lucknow
SHUKLA CHAAT HOUSE
This small little shop has been churning out delectable chaat items since over 40 years. Shukla’s pani batashas have a huge fan following, including Kangana Ranaut. We love them too.
Price: Rs. 15 for 5 pieces
Timings: 6 pm to 10 p.m.
Location: Near St Francis College, Shah Najaf Road, Hazratganj
JAIN CHAAT
Another popular haunt, Jain Chaat has batashas that are fried to perfection and pani that is mildly spiced, jaljeera flavoured.
Price: Rs. 15 for 5 pieces
Timings: 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Lalbagh Crossing, Lucknow
PARAMPARA SWEETS
The famous mithai shop sets up a chaat stall in the evening. Their batashas are fresh and crunchy and though there is only one type of pani available, it is seasoned beautifully.
Price: Rs. 20 for 6 pieces
Timings: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Location: Parampara Sweets, Sapru Marg, Lucknow
RAVI PANI BATASHA
Setting up his stall in the crowded Chowk, Ravi makes nine kinds of pani – Aam, Dhanya, Pudina, Jeera, Adrak, Chutney, Saunf, Mixed and Lime.
Price: Rs. 20 for 8 pieces
Timings: 3 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Location: Behind Chowk Police Station, Chowk, Lucknow
RITZ MAHANAGAR
The chaat at Ritz Mahanagar is quite popular, and their pani batashas are especially recommended for those who like their pani with a strong taste of heeng, like we do. Must-try!
Price: Rs. 25 for 5 pieces
Timings: 4 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Location: Gole Market, Mahanagar
