Pahalwan Ji Ka Special Mattha — Restaurant in Kanpur

When we talk about food in Kanpur, one of the first names that comes to mind is the legendary outlet in Phoolbag. The taste here is not just food, it’s an emotion for the people who have grown up around this place. Very tasty 😋 and equally healthy, the first thing that stands out about this shop is its consistency. Despite the changing times and the growth of modern cafés, restaurants, and food joints across the city, this iconic spot has never changed its setup. The essence remains exactly as it was in the beginning, and that is what makes it so special.

Kanpur today has countless outlets, each trying to experiment with flavors and ambiance, but this Phoolbag shop stands apart. It is the first and original one, the place where it all began. The setup is simple, the atmosphere humble, and yet, it attracts people from all over the city. Regular customers often say that the taste has been maintained for decades without compromise, something rare to find in today’s world of quick food and shortcuts.

What makes it even more memorable is the presence of Pehelwan ji, who has been sitting there since the beginning. His watchful eyes, dedication, and personal involvement ensure that every plate served carries the same authentic touch. For many, meeting him is as delightful as enjoying the food itself.

This shop has become more than just an outlet—it’s a landmark of Kanpur’s food culture. Generations have grown up enjoying its taste, and even today, people proudly recommend it to visitors. The charm lies in its simplicity: no fancy setup, no unnecessary glamour, just pure, honest, and wholesome food. That is why, even with so many options available, the first shop in Phoolbag continues to hold a very special place in the hearts...

My Google Review # 000349.

Eat healthy, eat tasty and eat fresh.

This vendor - called Pahalwanji – has been selling bread and makhan (white butter) for more than 25 years now. We used to frequent it during our childhood days and today after 20 yrs, we still frequent it with our children.

The owner puts up his stall here for a limited time every morning and serves you the best white butter ever. He has grown over a period and learnt how to keep pace with the changing environment.

So, nowadays, you will be offered with a choice of breads to pick up from – brown, white, multigrain etc. You will have UPI and cash – both payment options available. You will get your bread butter packed in proper disposal bags and chaas (butter-milk) also packed in proper paper glasses.

What more you need? You can even order from the comfort of your home and they shall deliver on their own or through ZWIGGY type of delivery.

The place is flocked over by youth and elders alike. Crowded. Every time you go. But my advice will be to go on an empty stomach here, so you can relish all their dishes. They also have an outlet near Lal Bangla in Kanpur.

Date of...

We went there for an early sunday morning cycling to Jajmau Tila and from there this place can be reached in 15-20 min cycling (~7 km). Kanpur is famous for its makkhan-bun and pahalwan ji is the best possible bun-makkhan in the town. Try to go to this place early in the morning (before 9 AM) to have the taste of fresh makkhan. They provide different flavours in the bread, namely multi grain, sweet, pizza, mango and pineapple. Among these the best options are multi grain and mango. The food is very very fresh and pocket friendly. We have tried all the buns and the chass (it is extremely good in taste) and it took on an average 100 rs per person. The main problem of this place is the seating arrangement, there are very few (only 3-4) chairs available. However I would recommend the place as one of the best breakfast places of kanpur if you like...