Banaraswala – A Brand Bringing the Best Street Food of Varanasi Straight to Your Plate

Key Highlights:

• Founded: February 2025
• Founder: Vibhanshu Mishra
• First Outlet: Midpoint Mart, Kashiram Chowk, Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad
• Expansion Goal: 20+ outlets by 2026 across North India
• Signature Dishes: Tamatar Chaat, Kachoris, Malaiyyo, Lassi, Chena Dahi Vada, Banarasi Paan
• Unique Selling Point: Authentic Banarasi street food experience with traditional recipes and immersive ambiance

When you think of Banaras (Varanasi), images of vibrant ghats, spiritual energy, and the unmistakable aroma of street food come to mind. Banaraswala is a brand born from this very essence – the rich culinary traditions of the holy city. Founded by Vibhanshu Mishra, a true Banarasi at heart, Banaraswala is more than just a restaurant – it’s a heartfelt mission to share the timeless flavors of Banaras with the world.

The Beginning: A Culinary Dream Inspired by Banaras

Vibhanshu Mishra’s journey started long before Banaraswala opened its doors in February 2025. Growing up in Varanasi, Vibhanshu was enchanted by the simple yet soulful dishes his mother cooked at home and the vibrant street food culture that defines the city. The tastes, smells, and warmth of Banaras stayed with him throughout his life.

Driven by his passion for food and a deep connection to his roots, Vibhanshu pursued studies in Hotel Management and Food Science. But his vision went beyond academics. He dreamed of creating a space where people could experience the magic of Banaras – its legendary street food, its culture, and its hospitality – no matter where they were.

The Birth of Banaraswala

In February 2025, Vibhanshu’s dream became a reality with the launch of the first Banaraswala outlet at Midpoint Mart, Kashiram Chowk, Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad. More than just a dining space, Banaraswala offers an immersive experience that transports guests straight to the heart of Banaras. The interiors reflect the city’s heritage, from artwork of the ghats to vibrant live chaat counters that replicate the hustle and charm of Varanasi’s streets.

The Vision: More Than Just Food

At its core, Banaraswala aims to preserve and promote Banaras’ culinary legacy. The brand’s mission has evolved from simply serving food to creating a cultural journey. Each outlet is designed to evoke the colors, sounds, and flavors of Varanasi, making every visit feel like a walk through the old lanes of the city.

Banaraswala is also expanding beyond Ghaziabad, with plans to open over 20 outlets across North India, including Delhi, Noida, Lucknow, and Kanpur by 2026. The goal? To make the taste of authentic Banarasi street food available to food lovers far and wide.

Why the Name "Banaraswala"?

The name "Banaraswala" is deeply symbolic. “Wala” means “someone from Banaras,” instantly evoking a sense of belonging, warmth, and authenticity. It reflects not only the flavors but also the spirit, traditions, and hospitality of Banaras that Vibhanshu and his team strive to share with every dish.

A True Taste of Varanasi

What sets Banaraswala apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. From tamatar chaat, crispy kachoris, and chena dahi vada to the seasonal favorite malaiyyo and the iconic Banarasi paan, every dish is prepared following time-tested recipes passed down through generations in Varanasi.

Even the preparation of malaiyyo – a delicate milk-based winter delicacy – stays true to its roots, maintaining the precise temperature and traditional techniques to ensure every bite tastes exactly like it does on the streets of Banaras.

Blending Tradition with Innovation

While Banaraswala stays true to the old-world charm of Banarasi food, it also embraces modern hospitality trends. The brand incorporates interactive live food counters, digital tools for customer engagement, and vibrant, thematic decor that brings the experience full circle – blending tradition with a contemporary touch.

Challenges and Milestones

Starting Banaraswala wasn’t without its hurdles. One of the biggest challenges has been sourcing authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods outside Varanasi. However, through partnerships with local vendors, artisans, and food suppliers from Varanasi, Banaraswala has been able to maintain the original flavors.

The opening of the first outlet was a key milestone, with a resounding response from the community, proving that there is a strong demand for authentic Banarasi food beyond Varanasi.

Giving Back to the Community

Banaraswala also takes pride in empowering small vendors and food artisans in Varanasi. By collaborating with local chefs, sourcing from local businesses, and training staff in traditional cooking techniques, the brand actively supports the city’s economy and cultural heritage.

On the sustainability front, Banaraswala aims to minimize food wastage and use eco-friendly packaging, contributing to a greener planet.

What Customers Say

Guests love Banaraswala for its mouth-watering dishes, lively ambiance, and the nostalgic feeling of being transported to Banaras. Customer feedback often highlights the authenticity of the food and the immersive dining experience that makes Banaraswala stand out.

The Road Ahead

In the next 5 to 10 years, Banaraswala plans to expand across India and eventually go global, taking the soulful street food of Banaras to international markets. Vibhanshu and his team envision Banaraswala as a global ambassador of Banarasi culinary heritage.

A Message from Banaraswala

“Banaraswala is not just about food; it’s about bringing a piece of Banaras’ soul to every table. Every dish tells a story, every bite takes you on a journey, and every guest becomes a part of our extended Banarasi family.”

(For Latest Food News subscribe to our Indian Food Times WhatsApp channel)