Guwahati Northeast States, India Travel Guide
Guwahati’s cuisine is mainly Assamese. It emphasizes simplicity, health, and natural ingredient flavors. The mighty Brahmaputra River influences the food, with fish as a staple.
Rice, fish, lentils, and many local greens (Xaak) are core components. Mustard oil is the primary cooking medium. Other ingredients include bamboo shoot, Khorisa (fermented bamboo shoot paste), and Khar (alkaline liquid from banana peel). Souring agents like kokum, raw mango, or lemon are common for tangy flavors. Ginger, garlic, green chilies, and local herbs are flavor enhancers.
Assamese cuisine has sour (Tenga), pungent (mustard, fermented bamboo shoot), and fresh herbal notes. It uses less oil and complex spices than North or South Indian cuisines. Smoking and grilling are common for fish and meat.
The broader Northeast region has diverse culinary traditions. Specialized restaurants in Guwahati may serve Naga cuisine (smoked meats, fiery chili), Khasi cuisine (simple, non-spicy), or Manipuri cuisine (fermented fish, fresh herbs).
Bottled water is commonly served and recommended.
An Assamese preparation using an alkaline extract from burnt banana peel. Often a light curry with vegetables or fish.
Found in traditional Assamese restaurants.
A light and tangy fish curry, usually with river fish and souring agents like tomato or elephant apple (Outenga).
A widely consumed staple.
Aloo Pitika is a simple mashed potato dish with mustard oil. Poitabhat is fermented rice, refreshing in summer. Both pair well with rice and dal.
Common side dishes and traditional meals.
Traditional Assamese rice cakes or pancakes, sweet or savory. Popular during Bihu festivals. Examples: Til Pitha, Narikol Pitha.
Payas/Kheer is a traditional Indian rice pudding. Larus are sweet balls made from various flours, nuts, or seeds, often prepared during festivals.
Luxury hotels like Vivanta, Radisson Blu, Novotel have in-house fine-dining restaurants. These serve Indian and international cuisine, with refined ambiance and service. The Hub (Vivanta) offers local Assamese and international fare.
Many mid-range options are on GS Road and other commercial areas. They offer comfortable dining and various cuisines.
Fancy Bazaar is a lively area for snacks, momos, rolls, and affordable meals. Bhangagarh/Ganeshguri also feature many small restaurants and food stalls. Local Dhaba-style eateries serve basic, affordable Indian meals.
Fancy Bazaar has many street food vendors and small restaurants. Bhutnath Market is a fresh produce market near the Brahmaputra, offering a glimpse into local ingredients.
Offers insight into local food sourcing.
Indian-Chinese fusion cuisine is widely available. Continental/Italian dishes are found mainly in higher-end hotels and some standalone restaurants on GS Road. Many multi-cuisine restaurants mix Indian, Chinese, and sometimes Continental dishes.
Familiar Western dishes are an option.
India is vegetarian-friendly. Many Assamese dishes are naturally vegan. Specify "no dairy," "no ghee," "no butter" for vegan needs.
Halal chicken and mutton are often available. Kosher options are very limited; self-catering might be necessary.
Rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free. Communicate all allergies clearly. Translation cards are useful.
Carry a small card with dietary restrictions translated into Assamese and Hindi. Research restaurants online in advance.
Some luxury river cruises or restaurants along the river offer dining with Brahmaputra views. This backdrop creates a serene and scenic meal.
Scenic views on the river.
Eating at roadside eateries (Dhabas) offers an authentic, rustic local food experience. Simple ambiance, delicious and hearty meals, especially North Indian and local Assamese dishes.
Part of the local travel experience.
Strong, sweet, milky tea is everywhere in Assam. Tea stalls are on almost every corner.
Lassi is a refreshing, yogurt-based drink, sweet or savory. Seasonal fresh fruit juices are widely available.
Traditional Indian meals are often eaten with the right hand. Many restaurants have cutlery, but using hands offers an authentic experience.
Meals are often family-style, with various dishes for everyone to share. A Thali plate offers a complete meal.
Bottled water is commonly served and recommended in restaurants.
Meals are generally enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
Assamese cuisine minimizes excessive oil and complex spice blends, letting natural flavors of ingredients take prominence.
Guwahati has specialized restaurants serving dishes from neighboring Northeast Indian states.
Known for smoked meats and fiery chili preparations.
Khasi cuisine is simple and often boiled. Manipuri cuisine features fermented fish and fresh herbs.
Do not hesitate to try street food, but choose stalls that are busy and where food is cooked fresh in front of you.
