1. Vinayaka Hotel
- Address: Pipeline Road, Nashik
- Price for Two: INR. 8,00-1,000
Vinayaka Hotel is one of those places that never lets you down, but don’t expect polished interiors or overly refined service. This is a no-frills eatery focused solely on delivering exceptional food. Their mutton and chicken thalis have a cult following among Nashik’s locals. The mutton curry is deeply satisfying, featuring tender pieces of meat steeped in a gravy that strikes the perfect balance between spice and richness. The accompanying tambda (red) and pandhra (white) rassas add a layer of complexity to the meal.
However, the service here can be inconsistent during peak hours. You might have to wait longer than you’d like, but the food more than compensates for the delay. Pair your meal with fresh bhakris or soft chapatis, and don’t miss their spicy mutton kheema if it’s available. Vinayaka’s focus on maintaining the authenticity of local flavors makes it a must-visit, though the dining experience could benefit from a little more attention to ambiance.
2. Nashik Lunch Home
- Address: Pipeline Road
- Price for Two: INR 1,000-1,500
Nashik Lunch is a rising star in the city’s food scene, and for good reason. Specializing in seafood and chicken/mutton thalis, this place has made waves with its bold flavors and attention to detail. The seafood thalis are a seafood lover’s dream, loaded with crispy fried fishes of your choice, curry, and a tangy solkadhi that serves as the perfect palate cleanser. The curry is undoubtedly the highlight, cooked with a harmonious blend of spices and creamy coconut milk. Fried fishes are also no exception. If you want you can pair it up with malwani wade or neer dosa also.
Their Kolhapuri mutton thali is unapologetically spicy, staying true to its roots. The mutton is tender and flavourful, paired with a smoky, fiery gravy of tambada rassa and pandhara rassa that demands extra servings of rice or bhakri. If you want to explore the local taste you can opt for a Khandeshi Thali also which comes with Kala rassa, chicken/mutton fry and chapati or bhakri as per your preference. While the flavours are top-notch, Nashik Lunch’s ambiance is also decent and elegant and suitable for a long, leisurely dining experience.
3. Chav Gomantak
- Address: Serene Meadows, Nashik.
- Price for Two: INR 1,000-1,500.
Chav Gomantak is one of the few places in Nashik where you can experience the magic of Goan, Malwani, and Konkani cuisine under one roof. It’s a haven for seafood enthusiasts who crave authentic coastal flavors. The fish thali is the showstopper, featuring perfectly fried surmai, curry bursting with the flavors of kokum and coconut, and a refreshing glass of solkadhi. Every element in the thali is meticulously prepared, from the crispy fish fry to the subtly spiced fish curry.
If seafood isn’t your thing, the chicken thali offers a different yet equally delightful experience. The mild Chicken/Mutton thali, paired with soft chapatis or bhakri, is comfort food at its best. The slightly steep pricing reflects the premium quality of ingredients, but for the taste and authenticity, it’s worth every rupee.
4. Jayesh Khanawal
- Address: Panchavati, Nashik.
- Price for Two: INR 500 – INR 1000
Jayesh Khanawal is the kind of place that feels like stepping back in time. This rustic eatery has been a go-to spot for locals who appreciate hearty, traditional Maharashtrian food. The mutton thali here is nothing short of legendary. The meat is slow-cooked to perfection, and the curry is a bold, flavorful concoction of spices that hits all the right notes. The bhakris are freshly made and serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the rich gravy.
The ambiance, however, is basic at best. Don’t expect plush seating or air conditioning. Instead, expect to be surrounded by locals who come here for one reason only—the food. While theirmost of the dishes are worth mentioning, what truly sets Jayesh Khanawal apart is its commitment to staying authentic. It’s not for the faint-hearted, though; the spice levels are unapologetically high. If you’re a fan of rustic, unpretentious food, this place is a gem.
5. Jai Malhar
- Address: Near Sinnar, Nashik District.
- Price for Two: INR 600- INR 800.
For those willing to venture a little outside Nashik, Jai Malhar offers one of the most authentic Maharashtrian thali experiences in the region. Located near Sinnar, this eatery is a favorite among locals for its mutton bhakri and chicken bhakri thalis. The mutton curry is the epitome of slow-cooked perfection, with spices that are deep, smoky, and perfectly balanced. The chicken curry is equally impressive, offering a homely, rustic touch that’s hard to replicate.
The bhakris are a highlight on their own—slightly charred, perfectly soft, and incredibly satisfying when paired with the robust curries. Jai Malhar prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and it shows in every bite. The serene surroundings of Sinnar add to the charm, making the meal feel like a mini getaway. While it’s a bit out of the way, the experience is well worth the drive, especially if you’re looking for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Just Nashik 