Food lovers, rejoice! The year-end reports from Zomato and Blinkit, are in, and they paint a delicious picture of India’s eating habits in 2024. Buckle up, as we delve into the delightful (and sometimes surprising) trends that fueled our kitchens and satisfied our cravings.
Biryani: The Undisputed King
Move over, pizza! For the ninth year running, biryani has been crowned the undisputed champion of Indian taste buds. Zomato users ordered a staggering 9 crore (90 million) plates of this fragrant rice dish in 2024. That’s roughly three biryanis devoured every second! Whether it’s the Hyderabadi delight, the Lucknowi aroma, or the quintessential Kolkata biryani, this dish continues to rule the hearts (and stomachs) of the nation.
Pizza: A Slipping Crown
While pizza remains a popular choice, its reign seems to be facing some heat. Zomato saw a noticeable decline in pizza orders compared to 2023. Perhaps Indians are exploring the vast culinary landscape available, or maybe they’re experimenting with healthier options. Whatever the reason, pizza appears to be taking a backseat this year.
Unexpected Finds: Tea Over Coffee, Maggi Mania
Zomato and Blinkit, quick e-commerce platforms, provides a glimpse into our instant gratification needs. Here, Maggi ruled supreme, with over 1.7 crore instant noodle packs flying off the virtual shelves. It seems Indians love the convenience (and nostalgia) of a quick Maggi fix.
Interestingly, tea emerged as the clear winner over coffee in the beverage category. With over 77 lakh cups ordered compared to coffee’s 74 lakh, tea seems to be the hot (or should we say, warm?) beverage of choice. Maybe it’s the perfect pick-me-up during a busy day, or perhaps it’s the comforting aroma that brings us back to our childhood.
Beyond the Foodie Frenzy: A Glimpse into Consumer Habits
Zomato and Blinkit reports go beyond just revealing our favorite dishes. One Zomato user ordered a whopping 120 Manchurian combos on a train, while another explored a record-breaking 1,377 different restaurants in a single year! These anecdotes highlight the growing popularity of online food ordering and the diverse culinary experiences Indians seek.
The Takeaway: A Nation of Diverse Tastes
From our enduring love for biryani to our surprising preference for tea, India’s 2024 food and drink trends paint a vibrant picture of a nation with diverse tastes. Whether it’s a quick Maggi fix or a delicious biryani feast, these reports showcase our ever-evolving culinary landscape and the growing love for convenient online food ordering. So, the next time you’re in doubt about what to order, remember, Biryani may be king, but there’s a world of deliciousness waiting to be discovered in India!
