Top 5 Places to Eat in Agra

Stunning daytime view of the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, India.
Arto Suraj, Pexels

Agra's culinary scene offers a diverse array of Indian flavors, ranging from opulent Mughlai fine dining to popular local street food, catering primarily to tourists exploring its historic monuments.

1. Esphahan

Cuisine: Mughlai, North Indian

Nestled within The Oberoi Amarvilas, Esphahan offers a luxurious and intimate dining experience, often accompanied by live santoor music. The restaurant specializes in exquisite Mughlai and North Indian dishes, with a focus on tandoori delicacies. Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating times, typically at 7 PM and 9:30 PM.

Price: High-end; estimated ₹3,500+ per person (approx. $40+ USD)

Getting There: Located inside The Oberoi Amarvilas, approximately 0.7 km (10-minute walk) from the Taj Mahal's East Gate. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available to reach the hotel.

2. Peshawri

Cuisine: North-West Frontier, Mughlai

Situated within the ITC Mughal, Peshawri delivers a luxurious dining experience, celebrated for its authentic North-West Frontier cuisine. The restaurant excels in tandoor-cooked kebabs and tikkas, with its signature Dal Bukhara being a highly acclaimed dish. It offers a family-style meal in a well-lit dining area.

Price: High-end; estimated ₹6,000 for two (approx. $70 USD)

Getting There: Located at ITC Mughal on Fatehabad Road. Accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

3. Pinch of Spice

Cuisine: North Indian, Chinese, Continental

Pinch of Spice is a popular and well-regarded restaurant in Agra known for its diverse menu and quality preparations. The ambiance is pleasant with clean interiors and courteous staff. It offers a wide selection of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes, with the Raan (slow-cooked lamb leg) often highlighted as a must-try.

Price: Mid-range; estimated ₹1,500 - ₹2,000 for two (approx. $18 - $24 USD)

Getting There: Conveniently located near the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, with multiple branches including one on Fatehabad Road. Easily reachable by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

4. Shankara Vegis

Cuisine: Vegetarian Indian, Chinese

For those seeking vegetarian options, Shankara Vegis offers a cozy setting with the added bonus of rooftop seating providing views of the Taj Mahal. The restaurant is particularly known for its tasty vegetarian thalis and a relaxing atmosphere where guests can unwind.

Price: Mid-range/Budget-friendly; estimated ₹800 - ₹1,200 for two (approx. $10 - $15 USD)

Getting There: Approximately 1.2 km from the Taj Mahal. Accessible by auto-rickshaw or a short walk.

5. Joney's Place

Cuisine: Indian, Continental (basic), Café

A long-standing establishment delighting patrons since 1978, Joney's Place is a small, cozy, and budget-friendly eatery. Dishes are freshly prepared, often visible to patrons. It is highly recommended for its Banana Lassi and Malai Kofta, offering a friendly local vibe. It is also an excellent spot for an early breakfast.

Price: Cheap eats; estimated ₹450 - ₹500 for two (approx. $5 - $6 USD)

Getting There: Very close to the Taj Mahal's South Gate, just a 5-minute walk (approx. 500 meters). Easily accessible on foot from the main tourist area.