Traveling in India and missing familiar flavors? No worries! Western-style takeaway food is widely available in major Indian cities, making it easy to grab a quick burger, pizza, or salad while exploring. This guide covers popular options, where to find them, and tips to make the most of your dining experience as a traveler in India.
Popular Takeaway Options
Burgers & Wraps
Global fast-food giants like McDonald’s, KFC, Burger King, and Subway are common in large cities. These chains offer familiar items like burgers, fried chicken, and customizable wraps. Local chains like Biggies Burger and Burger Singh are also gaining traction, often with bold, Indian-inspired flavors. For example, Biggies Burger offers a spicy masala burger that’s a hit with locals and travelers alike.
Insight: McDonald’s in India is unique for its extensive vegetarian menu, including the McAloo Tikki (a spiced potato patty burger) and the Maharaja Mac (available in chicken or veggie versions). These are affordable (starting at ₹50-₹150) and widely loved.
Pizzas
Domino’s and Pizza Hut dominate the pizza scene, with outlets in most cities and towns. You’ll find classics like Margherita and Pepperoni, but Indian twists like Paneer Makhani Pizza or Tandoori Chicken Pizza add local flair. Smaller chains like Mojo Pizza and Oven Story are popular for gourmet options and quick delivery.
Insight: Pizzas in India are often customizable with extra toppings like spicy green chilies or sweet corn, catering to local tastes. Prices typically range from ₹200-₹600 for a medium pizza.
Sandwiches & Salads
Subway is a go-to for fresh sandwiches and salads, with outlets in malls and city centers. Other chains like Cafe Coffee Day and independent cafes offer pre-packed sandwiches with fillings like grilled chicken, veggies, or cheese. For healthier options, look for salad-focused spots like Salad Days, which offer customizable bowls with global ingredients.
Insight: Many cafes in urban areas now cater to health-conscious travelers, offering quinoa, kale, or avocado-based salads, though these may cost ₹300-₹500.
Other Western Favorites
- Fried Chicken: KFC is ubiquitous, but local chains like WOW! Chicken offer crispy fried chicken with Indian spices.
- Pastas: Chains like Pasta Street and Domino’s offer creamy or tomato-based pastas for takeaway.
- Desserts: Donut shops like Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’ Donuts and Mad Over Donuts, along with ice cream chains like Baskin Robbins, are perfect for a sweet fix.
Insight: Dessert portions in India are often smaller but richer than Western equivalents. A single donut or scoop of ice cream costs around ₹80-₹150.
Where to Find Takeaway
Food Delivery Apps
Apps like Zomato and Swiggy can be lifesavers for travelers. They list menus from thousands of restaurants, from global chains to local gems, and offer delivery within 30-60 minutes in most cities. You can filter by cuisine, price, or ratings, and track your order in real-time. These apps also show discounts (often 20-40% off) and user reviews, which help you pick reliable spots.
Tip: Download these apps before you arrive and link a local SIM or international card for seamless payments. Most apps are in English and easy to navigate.
Restaurant Websites & Apps
Major chains like Domino’s, McDonald’s, and Burger King have their own apps and websites for direct ordering. These platforms often offer exclusive deals and let you customize orders (e.g., no onions, extra cheese). Some local chains, like Biggies Burger, also have user-friendly apps.
Insight: Ordering directly from a chain’s app can sometimes be cheaper than third-party apps, as they skip delivery platform fees.
Upscale Hotels & Food Courts
Many 4- and 5-star hotels, have restaurants serving Western dishes, from burgers to pastas, available for takeaway or room service. Malls in cities have food courts with chains like Taco Bell, Wendy’s, and Chili’s.
Tip: Hotel restaurants are pricier (₹500-₹1000 per dish) but reliable for consistent quality, especially if you’re wary of street food hygiene.
Local Cafes & Bakeries
Independent cafes in shopping hubs of cities often serve Western-style sandwiches, wraps, and desserts. Bakeries like Theobroma or Birdy’s offer takeaway pastries, cakes, and sandwiches, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Insight: Cafes in tourist hubs often have Wi-Fi and English-speaking staff, making them great spots to relax and order takeaway.
Things to Consider
Spice Levels
Indian cuisine loves bold flavors, and even Western chains adapt to this. A “mild” burger at KFC might still have a spicy kick. Always ask about spice levels or request “no spice” when ordering. Apps like Zomato often let you add special instructions for milder flavors.
Tip: If you’re sensitive to spice, stick to global chains over local ones, as they’re more likely to offer neutral flavors.
Vegetarian Options
India’s large vegetarian population (about 30% of the country) means vegetarian Western dishes are everywhere. McDonald’s, Domino’s, and Subway have extensive veggie menus, with options like paneer wraps, veggie burgers, or mushroom pizzas. Vegan options are less common but growing in urban areas, especially at cafes like Greenr Cafe (Delhi, Mumbai).
Insight: Vegetarian dishes are often cheaper (₹100-₹300) and just as flavorful as meat-based ones, making India a paradise for veggie-loving travelers.
Hygiene & Quality
Food safety can vary, especially in smaller establishments. Stick to well-rated restaurants (check Zomato/Swiggy ratings) or chains in tourist areas to minimize risks. Busy outlets with high turnover ensure fresher food. If you’re unsure, opt for packaged items like pre-packed sandwiches or sealed desserts.
Tip: Carry hand sanitizer and avoid raw salads in smaller eateries to stay safe while enjoying takeaway.
Local Variations & Fusion Cuisine
Western food in India often comes with a local twist. Expect burgers with tandoori sauce, pizzas topped with paneer tikka, or wraps stuffed with spicy kebab fillings. Chains like Burger King offer Masala Whopper, while cafes serve fusion dishes like Butter Chicken Pasta. These unique flavors are a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Insight: Fusion dishes are often spicier and heavier than their Western counterparts, so balance them with lighter options like salads if you’re eating on the go.
Timing & Availability
Takeaway is available throughout the day in cities, but some restaurants close between 3 PM and 6 PM (post-lunch, pre-dinner). Delivery apps operate late (until midnight or later in large cities), but rural areas may have limited options. Plan ahead if you’re in smaller towns.
Insight: Peak hours (12-2 PM, 7-9 PM) can lead to longer delivery times, so order early to avoid delays.
Why Try Western Takeaway in India?
While India’s street food and traditional cuisine are incredible, Western takeaway offers comfort and familiarity, especially after days of spicy curries or on busy travel days. It’s also a great way to experience India’s unique take on global dishes. Whether you’re craving a quick burger in Delhi’s bustling markets or a pizza delivered to your Goa beach resort, these options make dining convenient and delicious.
Categories :