15 Must-try Local Food of Bishnupur | With 10 Best Places to Eat

Did you know, there is a dessert named Chak-Hao Kheer, a traditional dessert from Manipur made with black rice? It is not only known for its delicious taste but also for its health benefits. 

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making Chak-Hao Kheer not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritious choice in Manipuri cuisine from locally grown farmers. Manipuri cuisine, including dishes from Bishnupur, is heavily influenced by the state’s rich cultural tapestry and diverse communities. 

This fusion of culinary traditions results in unique flavors and cooking techniques that reflect the region’s historical interactions with neighboring cultures and indigenous practices.

Bishnupur, located in the beautiful landscapes of Manipur, not only holds historical richness but also offers a delightful array of local cuisine. From hearty rice dishes to flavorful snacks, the food here reflects the cultural diversity and traditional flavors of the region. 

Join us as we uncover the essence of Bishnupur’s culinary treasures. However, you can also visit places to eat in Imphal for delightful dishes and explore top cafes near Bishnupur.

However, I can say, that among all the places to visit in Manipur, Bishnupur will satisfy your hunger pangs like no other.

Top 15 Local Food of Bishnupur, Manipur

1. Eromba

Eromba is a quintessential Manipuri dish that embodies the essence of the region’s cuisine. It typically consists of mashed boiled vegetables (like potatoes, yam, pumpkin) combined with fermented fish (ngari), green chili, and a pungent herb called ‘tree bean’ (yongchak). The dish is known for its strong flavors and is often served as a main course alongside steamed rice. 

The fermented fish lends a unique umami taste, while the green chilies add a spicy kick, making Eromba a hearty and satisfying meal that reflects Manipuri culinary traditions. A traditional Manipuri dish made with fermented fish, mashed vegetables, and a fiery chili paste, served with steamed rice.

• Approximate Price: ₹150-250

Also Read : Looking For Things To Do In Imphal? Check Out These 12!

2. Chamthong

A clear vegetable stew with seasonal greens, herbs, and sometimes fish, offering a light yet flavorful meal. Chamthong is a light and nutritious Manipuri stew that features a medley of seasonal vegetables, herbs, and sometimes fish or meat. The key ingredients often include leafy greens such as mustard greens, spinach, or local herbs like khokhaiba. 

The vegetables are simmered gently to retain their freshness and flavors, creating a clear and flavorful broth. Sometimes, small fish or dried fish pieces are added to enhance the taste further. Chamthong is typically enjoyed with steamed rice and is prized for its simplicity and health benefits, reflecting Manipuri cuisine’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.

• Approximate Price: ₹100-200

Also Read : Best Time To Visit Imphal: A Comprehensive Guide

3. Ngari

Fermented fish, a staple in Manipuri cuisine, used in various dishes to impart a unique umami flavor. Ngari is a staple ingredient in Manipuri cuisine and refers to fermented fish that plays a crucial role in many traditional dishes. It is made by fermenting small freshwater fish with salt in earthen pots for several months. It is one of the Famous Snacks of Bishnupur. 

The fermentation process gives ngari its distinctively pungent aroma and savory taste, which adds depth and richness to Bishnupur Food Culture like Eromba, Singju, and various chutneys. Ngari is also enjoyed on its own as a side dish with rice and is a symbol of Manipuri culinary heritage, showcasing the region’s skill in preserving and enhancing natural flavors. It is definitely accounted as Must-Try Dishes in Bishnupur. If you want to indulge Authentic Bishnupur Food Experience, you must need to have this ngari. 

• Approximate Price: Prices vary based on type and quantity mostly  ₹100-200

4. Sana Thongba

Sana Thongba is accounted as the Traditional Cuisine of Bishnupur and it is basically creamy Manipuri curry made with paneer-like fermented soybean (soibum) and vegetables, seasoned with local herbs. Sana Thongba is a creamy Manipuri curry made with fermented soybean (locally known as ‘soibum’), which resembles paneer in texture. 

The soybean is mashed and cooked in a flavorful broth made with vegetables like potatoes, peas, and other seasonal greens. Similar to other scenes of Local Food of Bishnupur, herbs and spices are added to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste. 

Sana Thongba is known for its smooth and velvety texture, with the fermented soybean imparting a unique tangy flavor. It is often served with steamed rice and is a popular choice for its wholesome and comforting qualities among Local Food of Bishnupur, making it a must-try for visitors exploring Manipuri cuisine.

• Approximate Price: ₹150-250

5. Singju

Being as a part of traditional Cuisine of Bishnupur, it is a refreshing salad made with finely chopped seasonal vegetables, herbs, and a tangy fermented fish dressing. 

Singju is a refreshing and crunchy salad that showcases Manipur’s love for fresh vegetables and bold flavors. It is made with finely shredded seasonal vegetables such as cabbage, lotus stem, banana flower, and local herbs like heikak (a type of watercress). The salad is dressed with a tangy and spicy dressing made from fermented fish (ngari), roasted sesame seeds, and green chilies. 

Singju is notable for its contrasting textures and vibrant colors, offering a burst of flavors with each bite. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer and is a favorite during festivals and celebrations in Manipur.

• Approximate Price: ₹100-150

6. Ooti.

A wholesome dish of boiled vegetables like potatoes, peas, and carrots, flavored with local spices and herbs. Ooti is a wholesome and nourishing dish from Manipuri cuisine, featuring a mix of boiled vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and sometimes beans or lentils. The vegetables are cooked together with local spices and herbs, creating a flavorful and aromatic stew-like consistency.  It is one of the Famous Snacks of Bishnupur. 

Being as a part of traditional Cuisine of Bishnupur, Ooti is appreciated for its simplicity and ability to showcase the natural flavors of the vegetables. It is typically enjoyed with steamed rice or as a standalone dish, providing a satisfying meal that embodies the essence of home-cooked Manipuri food.

• Approximate Price: ₹100-150

7. Kangsoi

A rustic soup made with a variety of local greens, bamboo shoots, and sometimes fish, offering a hearty and nutritious meal. Kangsoi is a hearty and nutritious soup from Manipur, known for its comforting qualities and use of local ingredients. The soup base is made with a variety of seasonal greens such as spinach, mustard greens, and other leafy vegetables. Bamboo shoots and sometimes small pieces of fish or dried fish are added to enhance the flavor. 

Alike other Local Food of Bishnupur, Kangsoi is simmered gently to extract the essence of the ingredients, resulting in a clear yet flavorful broth that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is often served with steamed rice and is a popular choice during the colder months, offering warmth and sustenance. If you want to indulge Authentic Bishnupur Food Experience, you must need to have this Kangsoi. 

• Approximate Price: ₹150-250

8. Chak-Hao Kheer

A dessert made with black rice (chak-hao) cooked in milk and sweetened with jaggery, offering a delightful end to a meal. Chak-Hao Kheer is a traditional Manipuri dessert made with black rice (locally known as chak-hao), which has a naturally sweet and nutty flavor. The rice is cooked in milk and sweetened with jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), imparting a rich caramel-like taste to the kheer. 

Sometimes, aromatic spices like cardamom or cloves are added to enhance the dessert’s fragrance. Chak-Hao Kheer is often garnished with nuts and raisins and served chilled or warm, depending on personal preference. It is a beloved treat during festivals and special occasions in Manipur, symbolizing prosperity and cultural heritage of the Bishnupur Food Culture.

• Approximate Price: ₹100-150

9. Morok Metpa

Morok Metpa is a fiery and flavorful chutney from Manipuri cuisine, renowned for its bold spiciness and aromatic ingredients. It is made with roasted green chilies, garlic, and sometimes tomatoes, pounded into a coarse paste using a traditional stone grinder. Fermented fish (ngari) or dried fish may be added to enhance the chutney’s depth of flavor. Morok Metpa is typically served as a condiment alongside main dishes like rice and curry, adding a spicy kick and tangy undertones to each bite. 

It denotes Manipur’s affinity for robust flavors and is a favorite among locals and adventurous food enthusiasts alike. A spicy chutney made with roasted green chilies, garlic, and fermented fish, served as a side dish or condiment.

• Approximate Price: ₹50-100

10. Kelli Chana

Kelli Chana is one of the Famous Snacks of Bishnupur made with roasted black gram (chana), which is seasoned with spices and herbs. The black gram is roasted until crisp and crunchy, offering a satisfying texture with each bite. 

Kelli Chana is often enjoyed as a quick snack on its own or paired with tea, showcasing Manipur’s love for simple yet flavorful snacks. It is seasoned with a blend of spices that may include cumin, black salt, and red chili powder, adding a savory and mildly spicy flavor profile. Kelli Chana is readily available in local markets and Popular Eateries in Bishnupur, making it a convenient and tasty choice for snacking. Roasted and spiced black gram (chana), is a popular snack enjoyed with tea or as a crunchy accompaniment to meals.

• Approximate Price: ₹50-100

11. Paknam

Paknam are delightful rice flour dumplings that epitomize the vibrant street food culture of Manipur. These dumplings are deep-fried to golden perfection, offering a crisp exterior that gives way to a soft and chewy texture inside. What sets Paknam apart is its versatility—you can choose between savory fillings like spiced potatoes or lentils, or indulge in sweet variations filled with jaggery and coconut. 

Each bite is a burst of flavors and textures, making Paknam a favorite snack enjoyed across Bishnupur’s bustling markets and street corners. Deep-fried rice flour dumplings served with a choice of savory or sweet fillings, a favorite street food snack.

• Approximate Price: ₹10-20 per piece

12. Chamthong Ngakpa

Chamthong Ngakpa is a cherished dish in Manipuri cuisine, often prepared during festive occasions to celebrate community and abundance. This hearty dish features tender pieces of pork simmered to perfection with an array of local greens and aromatic herbs. The pork absorbs the flavors of the greens and herbs, creating a rich and savory broth that is both comforting and nourishing. 

Chamthong Ngakpa highlights the food of Manipuri cooks in balancing flavors and textures, making it a centerpiece of traditional gatherings and cultural festivities in Bishnupur. This festive dish is made during special occasions, featuring tender pork cooked with local greens and herbs.

• Approximate Price: ₹200-300

13. Hawaijar

Hawaijar, or smoked/dried fish, is a staple ingredient in Manipuri cuisine known for its distinct flavor profile and versatility in various dishes. The fish undergoes a smoking or drying process, enhancing its natural taste and adding depth to curries, stews, and chutneys. Hawaijar lends a smoky and savory essence to Manipuri dishes, reflecting the region’s reliance on locally sourced ingredients and traditional preservation methods. Whether used as a main ingredient or a flavorful garnish, Hawaijar remains integral to the authentic taste of Manipuri culinary traditions.

• Approximate Price: Prices vary based on type and quantity

14. Thoiding

Thoiding,  is a staple ingredient in Manipuri cuisine known for its distinct flavor. Thoiding, a leafy vegetable from Manipur, India, is rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and dietary fiber. It’s a staple in Manipuri cuisine, featured in dishes like “Thoiding Kanghou.” which is basically a spicy curry.  

Known for its medicinal properties, it is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying benefits. Thoiding holds cultural significance as well, often serving with festive dishes. Grown using organic methods, it supports sustainable agriculture and biodiversity. It is versatile in use, thoiding can be enjoyed fresh in salads or dried in stews, making it a beloved and healthful ingredient in the region.

• Approximate Price: ₹20-50 per piece

15. Usoi

Usoi is a beloved breakfast or snack item in Manipur, made from a blend of rice and black gram that is either fried or steamed to perfection. These rice cakes are known for their soft and slightly chewy texture, offering a subtle nuttiness from the black gram. 

Usoi is enjoyed plain or paired with chutneys, providing a wholesome and filling start to the day or a delightful snack option. Its simplicity and comforting flavors make Usoi a popular choice among locals seeking a taste of authentic Manipuri cuisine in Bishnupur.

• Approximate Price: ₹30-80

Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 best local food spots in Bishnupur, Manipur, each offering unique dishes and flavors that highlight the region’s culinary heritage:

1. Thongju Restaurant

Thongju Restaurant is renowned for its authentic Manipuri cuisine and traditional ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This is one of the best restaurants in Imphal, and offers an authentic taste of Manipuri cuisine. 

• Location: Thongju Bazaar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Eromba – A flavorful dish of mashed vegetables, fermented fish (ngari), and fiery chili paste, served with steamed rice.
• Approximate Price: ₹200-300 per meal

2. Bishnupur Chaak

Being one of the Best Local Food Spots in Bishnupur, Bishnupur Chaak is a busy eatery known for its diverse menu of local dishes and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for experiencing Manipuri street food culture.

• Location: Ningthoukhong Bazaar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Singju – A refreshing salad with shredded vegetables, herbs, and a tangy fermented fish dressing.
• Approximate Price: ₹100-150 per plate

3. Mandyroj Restaurant

Among places to eat in Bishnupur, Mandyroj Restaurant offers a cozy dining experience with a focus on home-style Manipuri cooking, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.

• Location: Thangapat Road, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Sana Thongba – Creamy curry made with fermented soybean (soibum) and seasonal vegetables.

Approximate Price: ₹150-250 per meal

4. Jen Aura Restaurant

Jen Aura Restaurant is famous for its extensive menu of traditional Manipuri sweets, coffee and snacks, perfect for indulging in local delicacies.If you want to indulge Authentic Bishnupur Food Experience, you must need to visit this place. Also, it is one of the top cafes near Bishnupur, offering a delightful confectionary experience.

• Location: Moirang Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Chak-Hao Kheer – Black rice pudding sweetened with jaggery and flavored with aromatic spices.
• Approximate Price: ₹100-150 per serving

5. Loukoipat Fast Food

Loukoipat Fast Food offers stunning views of Loktak Lake along with a menu that highlights fresh seafood and local specialties, providing a memorable dining experience.

• Location: Near Loktak Lake, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Kangsoi – Nourishing soup with seasonal greens, bamboo shoots, and optional fish.
• Approximate Price: ₹200-300 per meal

Also Read : Top 7+ Places To Visit In North East India In Monsoon

6. M.I TASTE

M.I TASTE Restaurant is a favorite among locals for its affordable yet authentic Manipuri dishes and quick service, catering to both residents and tourists.

• Location: Moirang Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Ooti – Hearty stew of boiled vegetables with local spices.

Approximate Price: ₹100-150 per meal

7. Ningol Club

Ningol Club is known for its welcoming ambiance and traditional Manipuri hospitality, offering a taste of home-cooked meals in a restaurant setting. 

• Location: Thangal Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Chamthong – Clear vegetable stew with local greens and sometimes fish.
• Approximate Price: ₹150-200 per meal

Also Read : 14 Best Places To Eat In Guwahati In 2024

8. Hemam Family Cafe

Hemam Family Cafe is a long-standing establishment known for its commitment to quality and consistency in serving authentic Manipuri dishes, attracting patrons from across the region.

• Location: Moirang Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Ngari – Fermented fish served as a side dish with rice or as an ingredient in various Manipuri recipes.
• Approximate Price: Prices vary based on type and quantity

9. Kanglei Cafe

Kanglei Cafe is a Popular Eateries in Bishnupur for locals seeking traditional Manipuri snacks and refreshments. This place is offering a wide selection of savory and sweet treats.

• Location: Thambal Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Morok Metpa – Spicy chutney made with roasted green chilies and fermented fish.
• Approximate Price: ₹50-100 per serving

10. Twinstar cafe

Singjamei Restaurant is known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to varying tastes, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all visitors for coffee lovers. 

• Location: Singjamei Bazar, Bishnupur
• Must-Try Dish: Kelli Chana – Roasted black gram seasoned with local spices, perfect for snacking or pairing with beverages.
• Approximate Price: ₹50-100 per serving

In conclusion, these local food spots in Bishnupur, Manipur, offer a delightful array of dishes that showcase the rich flavors and cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re craving traditional Manipuri cuisine or eager to explore street food favorites, these Popular Eateries in Bishnupur promise an authentic culinary journey worth savoring. 

Bishnupur in Manipur, offers a delightful culinary journey with its rich variety of dishes rooted in tradition and local ingredients. Whether you’re exploring its bustling markets or cozy eateries, the flavors of Manipur will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.