Host offerings
Born in Nagaland to Oriya parents and raised in West Bengal, Manisha has called Pondicherry home for over 40 years. Her diverse cultural background and deep expertise in medicinal plants have shaped her unique culinary approach, blending the rich flavors of Indian and French Creole cuisines. With a passion for food as medicine, she teaches how culinary traditions can enhance health and well-being. Manisha's work has been featured in National Geographic, Conde Nast, ARTE - European Cultural TV, and Hyundai Road Chasers, where she showcases the cultural and medicinal value of food. For over two decades, she has shared her knowledge with thousands of international students through hands-on cooking classes, food walks, and cycle tours in French, English, and various regional Indian languages. Manisha's goal through this Pondicherry culinary tour is to provide a unique opportunity to taste local delicacies, learn about the city’s rich history, and connect with friendly vendors.
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
Food tour (1 - 10 guests) Embark on a 2.5 hour walking food tour in the heart of Pondicherry, guided by a local, Manisha, who will take you through the vibrant streets of the city, weaving through the historical Goubert Market, iconic food stalls, and hidden gems. This culinary adventure is a perfect blend of tasting authentic street food, learning about Pondicherry's rich food heritage, and sharing stories with friendly vendors along the way.
Your tour begins at the bustling Goubert Market, where every stop tells a story of the city's rich food heritage. Here you will sample sweet, locally-grown red bananas, a unique Pondicherry treat. Then step back in time as you visit the historic Indian Coffee House, where you’ll savor aromatic filter coffee that evokes the charm of British colonial days. As you weave through the city's bustling streets, savor quintessential street snacks loved by locals - crispy vegetable bhaji (fritters) and pillowy paniyaram (pan fried lentil dumplings) at the beloved Srim RK Juice Centre on Mission street. As you continue your exploration near the Puducherry railway station, treat yourself to Nizam Soup Stall's famous mutton samosas and soul-warming bone soup. Vegetarians can enjoy hearty potato samosas at Madhu Sweet and Snacks, known for its flavorful treats. For the grand finale, choose between indulging in flaky lachha parathas served with traditional accompaniments, or dive into local tiffin specialties at Cool Cat's, a favorite among food lovers. And no food tour is complete without dessert, so end your adventure with creamy kulfi made from Ponlait, Pondicherry’s own beloved dairy brand.
This Pondicherry food tour is not just about eating - it’s about connecting with the history, culture, meeting the vendors who make it so special, and experiencing the city through the eyes of a local. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this immersive culinary journey offers a delightful way to taste the true flavors of Pondicherry. Perfect for food lovers and travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Pondicherry, with local delicacies, insights into the city's culinary history, and connections with friendly vendors.
Notes: Manisha can accommodate a vegetarian diet on her Pondicherry food experience. Put on your comfiest shoes, wear something breezy, grab a hat, and come hungry!
Languages spoken: #<HostLanguage::ActiveRecord_Associations_CollectionProxy:0x00007f9c6ea421c8>
This is just a sample menu to give you an idea of the types of dishes the host cooks. Your menu will vary according to seasonal availability.
Pricing (per person)*
| 1 person | 4 people | 5+ people | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Tour | $2,000 | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| *Does not include 3% payment processing fee applied at checkout. | |||
| Lunch | Dinner | |
|---|---|---|
| Food Tour | 5:00pm - 08:00pm |
Traveling Spoon connects you with meaningful culinary experiences, from private cooking lessons to homecooked meals in people's homes. Enjoy an immersive cultural experience that gives you a glimpse into the local way of life.
