Driving on the Grand Trunk Road (GT Road) through Ludhiana? You’re bound to get hungry for that classic dhaba-style Punjabi food — generous portions, fresh tandoori rotis, creamy dal makhani, buttery parathas, and spicy non-veg curries. In 2026, GT Road still has some solid dhabas that deliver authentic highway flavours.
We’ve visited (or checked recent consistent reviews on Zomato, TripAdvisor, and local feedback) these five popular spots. Here’s an honest review of the best dhabas on or near GT Road in Ludhiana — no hype, just real talk about food, vibe, value, and what to order.
1. Zimidara Dhaba – The Highway King (Sahnewal, GT Road)
Zimidara Dhaba (now also Zimidara Hotel & Restaurant) near Sahnewal and Ludhiana Airport is touted as Punjab's No.1 highway dhaba. It's the destination for long-drive travelers and city residents who miss real desi food.
- Cuisine: Pure Punjabi cuisine - Dal Makhani, Butter Chicken, Parathas, Makhan Lassi
- Location: Grand Trunk Road, Sahnewal (GT Road, outskirts towards Chandigarh/Delhi)
- Price for two: ₹800–₹1,500
- Best for: Highway stops, family meals, late-night drives
- Must-try: Signature Dal Makhani, Makhan Lassi (unlimited in some combos), fresh tandoori rotis, Amritsari Kulcha
- Vibe: Traditional dhaba with ample parking, open-air seating, lively ambience
- Pros: Fresh food, friendly helpings, real-deal taste, group ready
- Cons: Service slows down when it gets crowded.
For the true “highway dhaba vibe” with great lassi and dal, it’s tough to beat Zimidara.
2. Parkash Dhaba – Famous for Malai Meat & Non-Veg
Situated on the GT Road in Miller Ganj (Industrial Area side), Parkash Dhaba is an old name in Punjab that touts the rich and creamy non-veg offerings.
- Cuisine: North Indian, Punjabi (strong non-veg focus)
- Location: GT Road, Miller Ganj, beside Dukhniwaran Gurudwara / Industrial Area
- Price for two: ₹900–₹1,800
- Best for: Non-veg lovers, meat cravings, quick highway bites
- Must-try: Malai Meat (soft mutton cooked in rich gravy), Butter Chicken, Tandoori delicacies, Fish Tandoori
- Vibe: Traditional dhaba with good family seating
- Pros: One of a kind Malai Meat – not all eateries have that, yummy curries
- Cons: Mixed reviews on hygiene/sanitation; some report uneven serving sizes
Good place to satisfy your non-veg-rich indulgent cravings on the GT roadside.
3. Bansi Vaishno Dhaba – Pure Veg Reliable Choice
Bansi Vaishno Dhaba (Jagjit Nagar/ Shastri Nagar, near railway crossing and Model Town side) has a huge following for its sattvic cuisine, and many locals vouch for clean, home-cooked Punjabi fare here.
- Cuisine: Pure Veg North Indian (Paneer, Dal, Thalis)
- Location: Near Railway Crossing, Shastri Nagar / Jagjit Nagar (close to GT Road access)
- Price for two: ₹600–₹1,200
- Best for: Vegetarian families, light meals, thali lovers
- Must-try: Dal Makhani, Shahi Paneer, Kadhai Paneer, Special Veg Thali, Raita
- Vibe: Simple, clean, no-frills family dhaba
- Pros: Decent quantity; fair pricing; consistent veg flavour; friendly service
- Cons: Plain interiors, not suitable for non-vegetarians craving
Excellent option when you want pure veg without compromising on taste.
4. Kanpuria Da Dhaba – Budget-Friendly & Spicy Flavours
Kanpuria Da Dhaba (near Samrala Chowk on Ambala Road / GT Road stretch) is famous for its pocket-friendly curries laden with desi-ghī and an uncomplicated dhaba-style expression.
- Cuisine: North Indian, Mughlai (Chicken, Mutton focus)
- Location: Samrala Chowk / Hargobind Pura area, GT Road side
- Price for two: ₹700–₹1,300
- Best for: Budget non-veg meals, quick stops
- Must-try: Desi Ghee Chicken Curry, Mutton Curry, Mutton Pulao
- Vibe: Informal, roadside joint with quick service
- Pros: Friendly to your wallet, spiced boldly, ideal for tourists
- Cons: Seating and ambience are basic; reviews on consistency are mixed
Awesome when you want cheap, spicy Punjabi food to eat while standing up.
5. Friends Dhaba – Old-School Vegetarian Legend
Friends Dhaba (close to Ludhiana Junction/Railway Station, Naulakha Cinema Road – just a stone’s throw from GT Road) is a legendary place that has been cherished by Ludhianvis for years.
- Cuisine: Pure Veg Punjabi (Dal, Parathas, Paneer)
- Location: Opposite Railway Station, Naulakha Cinema Road
- Price for two: ₹600–₹1,200
- Best for: Authentic veg Punjabi lunch, quick bites near the station
- Must-try: Dhaba Dal / Dal Fry, Pyaz Paratha, Shahi Paneer, Malai Kofta, Namkeen Lassi
- Vibe: Old-school, cosy but congested, bustling crowds
- Pros: Long-time favourite taste, hygienic for its age, great dal and parathas
- Cons: Parking is a big issue (very crowded area); seating is limited
If you are a fan of traditional veg dhaba food, this place will take you down memory lane.
Quick Comparison Table – GT Road Dhaba Edition 2026
Quick Tips for Dhaba Hopping on GT Road, Ludhiana 2026
- Best time — Evenings or early mornings for freshest food and fewer crowds.
- Highway tip — Zimidara is ideal for long drives; others are closer to city entry points.
- Vegetarian? — Go for Bansi or Friends Dhaba.
- Non-veg craving? — Parkash or Kanpuria Da Dhaba.
- Pro tip — Carry cash; many dhabas still prefer it. Always check for fresh tandoor items.
GT Road dhabas in Ludhiana still serve that soul-satisfying Punjabi food that hits different after a long drive. Which one are you planning to stop at next? Drop your experience or favourite dhaba dish in the comments!
Safe travels and happy eating!
Explore More on DineDiary
Best Biryani in Ludhiana – Top Spots for Biryani Lovers (March 2026 Update)
Best Street Food in Ludhiana – Top Spots You Must Try in 2026
Best Restaurants in Ludhiana Under ₹500 – Budget Dining Guide (March 2026 Update)
0 Comments