Within close proximity of Dasashwamedh Road and the ghats lies the Phulwari Restaurant and Sami Cafe, a little haven which offers diners a cozy respite from the abrasive crowds of the city. Acclaimed for its interesting menu, expect to find a lineup of Mediterranean delicacies such as falafel, as well as the usual Italian suspects- pasta, lasagna and others. Their shady garden is a fine spot to catch up with travelers and exchange notes.
The Bread of Life Bakery is undeniably a haven for home-sick Western tourists who crave their hearty breakfasts consisting muffins, warm pancakes with syrup, steaming hot chocolate, croissants and fresh omelets. Not just this, Chinese dishes are also served at this relaxed cafe where one can lounge around writing postcards or letters for hours on end. An art gallery and silk shop upstairs stocks some interesting things that can be taken home as souvenirs. A good idea would be to drop in after a sunrise boat ride. Only cash accepted.
Monalisa Cafe and German Bakery attracts South East Asian tourists for its super renditions of popular Japanese and Korean dishes. Cheap Indian cuisine like vegetable kofta curry and parathas also has many takers who flock to this cozy little joint where one can hook up with other tourists. Long-term travelers in Varanasi often converge here and become die-hard regulars after a while. Monalisa is a much-needed break from the crowds and heat of the Old City.
The charming Buddhist pilgrim site of Sarnath has only a few quality restaurants to its credit. Rangoli Garden Restaurant is one among them which has a nice homely vibe to it. The large dining hall is surprisingly cool and comfy even in hot summer afternoons. The seating is comfortable and the service is friendly and relatively quick. The menu has an awesome range of Indian cuisine along with delicious Chinese delicacies. Paneer (Cottage Cheese) preparations are especially delightful with the few chicken and lamb varieties. Do visit for a satisfying meal.
Flavours Cafe is located near Banaras Hindu University. It serves great snacks, desserts and beverages. To start with they have some amazing signature drinks such as Masala Mocha, Masala Latte and Masala Cappuccino. The beverage menu includes fruit punch, desi drinks, fruit juices, iced tea, smoothies and milkshakes. The snack menu consists of pizzas, sandwiches, pastas, French fries and rolls. A visit to this cafe is incomplete without trying their Chocolate Danish Pastry, Banana Muffin and Caramal Mocha Cake. The menu is quite affordable and the quality of food is sure to bring you back again and again.
Anamika Coffee and Kulfi House is a famous ice cream parlor that was established quite a few years ago. Since then it has become the favorite of not only the locals but also the tourists from across the country. It is a very small joint but well maintained and neatly kept. Apart from kulfis and ice creams it also serves snacks. Some of the items from its menu include Masala Dosa, Idli, Pav Bhaji, Sattu Paratha, Manchurian and Chilli Paneer. It is an affordable place so you will surely be tempted to do often.