Savor Ooty: 8 Must-Try Street Foods Alongside the Ooty Short Film Festival
Ooty, known for its misty hills and lush tea plantations, has a culinary charm that is not to be missed during your festival visit. The street food scene is vibrant, offering everything from piping-hot momos to crunchy varkey. Here’s a guide to some of the best street foods to try while soaking in the festival atmosphere.
1. Varkey – Ooty’s Signature Pastry
Varkey is a classic Ooty snack, originating from the town’s colonial past. This crispy, flaky pastry has become an iconic treat, usually paired with a hot cup of Nilgiri tea. Made from a dough that combines flour, ghee, and sugar, varkey is slowly baked to achieve its signature crunchy texture. Some vendors also offer savory versions with spices.
Best enjoyed at: Ooty Bakery and local street vendors near Commercial Road
Exploration time: 15 minutes for a quick snack
Best time: Morning with tea
2. Momos – A Taste of the Himalayas in the Nilgiris
Momos, steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or pork, are a beloved street food, especially in the colder climates of Ooty. While these Tibetan-inspired treats aren’t native to Ooty, they’ve become a street food staple here, owing to the town’s cool climate. Served with spicy red chili sauce, they’re perfect for a quick bite between film screenings.
Best enjoyed at: Tibetan food stalls around Charing Cross
Exploration time: 20 minutes
Best time: Evening snack
3. Masala Chai – A Warming Cup of Nilgiri Goodness
A steaming cup of Masala Chai is the perfect companion to Ooty’s chilly weather. Made with local Nilgiri tea leaves, spices, and milk, this brew is both aromatic and invigorating. The unique flavor of the tea, grown in the region’s high-altitude estates, adds a distinct twist. Street vendors across town serve chai in small glasses, often accompanied by crispy snacks like bhajjis.
Best enjoyed at: Vendors near Ooty Lake or Botanical Gardens
Exploration time: 10 minutes for a quick refreshment
Best time: Any time of the day
4. Bhajjis – Crispy and Comforting
Hot, crispy bhajjis are deep-fried snacks made from slices of vegetables like potatoes, bananas, or onions, dipped in a seasoned gram flour batter. They’re served with spicy chutneys that complement the crispiness of the snack. Perfect for those cool Ooty evenings, bhajjis are a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Best enjoyed at: Street stalls on Commercial Road and near Charring Cross
Exploration time: 30 minutes
Best time: Late afternoon or evening
5. Chole Bhature – A Hearty North Indian Delight
Chole Bhature, a popular North Indian dish, has become a crowd favorite in Ooty’s bustling street food markets. This dish consists of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with large, fluffy, deep-fried bread (bhature). The combination is filling, flavorful, and great for lunch or dinner during a busy festival day.
Best enjoyed at: Local eateries near Ooty Market
Exploration time: 45 minutes
Best time: Lunch or early dinner
6. Sweet Corn on the Cob – Simple Yet Satisfying
As you walk around Ooty, you’ll often spot vendors selling freshly roasted corn on the cob. Roasted over a coal fire, the corn is slathered with butter and sprinkled with lime and chili powder, making it a tasty and healthy snack. The smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of the corn makes this street food a favorite, especially when strolling around the scenic Botanical Gardens.
Best enjoyed at: Botanical Gardens and Rose Garden entrances
Exploration time: 15 minutes
Best time: Afternoon
7. Dosa Varieties – A South Indian Staple
Dosas are a quintessential part of South Indian street food, and Ooty is no exception. Whether you prefer a plain dosa, a spicy masala dosa stuffed with potatoes, or a crispy ghee roast dosa, you’ll find these delicious crepes served fresh on street-side stalls. They’re typically served with coconut chutney and sambhar, making them a filling meal or snack.
Best enjoyed at: Dosa vendors near Charing Cross and Ooty Lake
Exploration time: 30-45 minutes
Best time: Breakfast or dinner
8. Ooty’s Famous Homemade Chocolates and Fudge
Ooty is well-known for its delicious homemade chocolates, thanks to the region’s cool climate and the availability of high-quality cocoa. Chocolate fudge is a rich, creamy treat that you’ll find at most local bakeries and street stalls. Available in a variety of flavors, from dark chocolate to nut-studded versions, these sweets are the perfect souvenir or snack.
Best enjoyed at: King Star Bakery, Modern Stores, or various street stalls
Exploration time: 10-15 minutes
Best time: Anytime for a sweet indulgence
Taste the Flavors of Ooty While Enjoying the Festival
Whether you’re enjoying a light snack between screenings or indulging in a full meal after the festival’s events, Ooty’s street food scene is sure to satisfy your cravings. From savory momos and spicy bhajjis to sweet fudge and varkey, each bite is a taste of Ooty’s local culture. Be sure to explore these street food stalls during the Ooty Short Film Festival!
