The most basic way to describe misal would be to call it a blend of farsan, sev, poha, potato and onion served with a spicy lentil curry. A more accurate way to describe it, however, is as an essential Maharashtrian snack, part of the cultural identity of its people, particularly in Pune. And so, here’s our list of the best places for misal in Pune:

Kata Kirr, Karve Nagar
This chain has five outlets across the city, but the oldest one is at Karve Nagar near Cummins College. When you enter, you will notice a wide-bottomed pot with a fiery red curry simmering on a stove. This is their secret sauce, which makes their misal among the spiciest in the city. This curry, or sample as it is called, is poured over a plate of potato, farsan and sev, and garnished with onions. The result is so spicy it’s best to wash it down with buttermilk (taak). The standard 10-minute wait can go up to an hour on weekends, proof of just how good the misal here is.
Cost for 2: INR 200
Location: Click here for directions

Bedekar Tea Stall, Budhwar Peth
Arguably Pune’s most legendary and popular outlet, this one has been in business for 40 years. They pride themselves at serving ‘assal’ Puneri misal that is slightly sweet and tangy, and not very high on spice. Their preparation is a mix of matki (moth bean), pohe, chiwda, sev and farsan topped with piping hot rassa, cloaked with onions and coriander. The place itself is little more than a shanty with bench-style seating, where you pay before you eat. But the misal is so good, people start queuing from 7am when it opens.
Cost for 2: INR 200
Location: Click here for directions

Misal ani Barach Kahi, Viman Nagar
This is one of the few misal places with a good décor, an extensive range of misals in various masalas. From Nashik Misal (served in black masala) to the special matki misal or the misal made in green masala, you are spoilt for choice. Apart from the Nasik misal (available only between 8-10.30am, other misals are served with curd, papad and a coconut barfi). The misal portions are large and one plate can be shared between two.
Cost for 2: INR 100
Location: Click here for directions

Hotel Ramnath, Tilak Road
Situated on Tilak Road, this place is known for its Kolhapuri misal, which is high on the heat quotient. They plate a deep red, rich misal comprising beans, pohe and lots of sev that’s notably high on spice and lavished with chopped onions and lemon. Served with bread slices, the misal packs a punch with its spicy afterkick. If you are not much of a spice lover, get the normal version.
Cost for 2: INR 100
Location: Click here for directions