Most of Varanasi is asleep at 2 AM. The ghats are quiet and the lanes have gone still. But near Raja Bazar, close to the Taj Hotel in Nadesar, one small cart is just getting started. A video shared by a food creator has put the spotlight on an elderly vendor who sets up shop here every night. His stall reportedly stays open from 2 AM to 6 AM, serving plates of chole papdi for just Rs 20. The clip has got people talking about the city's love for street food, which clearly doesn't follow office hours.
What's On The Plate?
The video shows how he puts each plate together. It begins with a generous scoop of chole on a paper plate, and the papdi and toppings go on from there. Nothing fancy, nothing plated for the camera. Just a hot, simple plate made quickly for whoever is standing in front of him.
Why Rs 20 Is The Part Everyone Is Talking About?
When a viewer asked about the price in the comments, the creator confirmed it: Rs 20 a plate. In a time when even a basic chaat plate can cost double that, the number caught people's attention. Add the odd hours, and the little pushcart has turned into a talking point among Varanasi's street food fans.
A City That Eats At All Hours
This isn't surprising for Varanasi. The city runs on its own clock, with early aartis, dawn boat rides and kachori-sabzi breakfasts that start before most people have had chai. A late-night cart fits right in. Anyone returning from a night train, finishing a shift, or simply unable to sleep can find something hot to eat.
There is also something comforting about a vendor who has shown up night after night, long after everyone else has packed up. Stalls like this rarely have a fancy name or a social media page. Their reputation travels by word of mouth, and now, through a single video.
What You Need To Keep In Mind If Planning To Visit?
- Look for the stall near Raja Bazar, Taj Hotel, Nadesar.
- The reported timing is 2 AM to 6 AM, so plan accordingly.
- Carry small change, since the plate is priced at Rs 20.
- Timings at street stalls can change, so don't be surprised if things look different on your visit.
If you're a night owl with midnight cravings, this is the spot for you the next time you're in Varanasi.
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