Whether you’re studying at Jammu University, Model Institute of Engineering & Technology, or just exploring the city on a student budget, Jammu has amazing cheap-eat gems serving flavour-packed, comforting food. Here’s your Starving Scholars: Jammu Edition — curated for hungry students who don’t want to overspend!
1. Pahalwan’s Food Court, Gandhi Nagar
A classic Jammu favourite, Pahalwan’s is known for its fresh snacks, sweets, and hearty vegetarian meals. It’s a perfect hangout spot for students after classes — always clean, affordable, and fast. Their Rajma Chawal and Chole Bhature are absolute stars here, giving homely vibes and full satisfaction. You can also grab freshly-made Kulchas, Aloo Tikkis, and their famous Rasmalai. Budget: ₹80–₹180.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RtqzA1izcfdmB1kr6
2. Raghunath Sweet Shop, Raghunath Bazaar
A legendary spot in the heart of Jammu, Raghunath Sweet Shop is famous for its fresh chaat, samosas, and North-Indian snacks. Students love the Aloo Tikki Chaat, Golgappa, and Paneer Pakora — all budget-friendly and full of flavour. This place is always buzzing with students, shoppers, and locals. You can also try their Jalebi and Gulab Jamun. Everything falls in the ₹20–₹120 range.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d311qsfkNx3vHZBH8
3. Billu Da Dhaba, Talab Tillo
Famous for hearty Punjabi meals served at pocket-friendly prices, Billu Da Dhaba is a go-to for students craving comfort food. Their Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and Amritsari Kulcha are the most loved dishes. Portions are big, rotis are soft, and meals easily fit in the ₹120–₹250 range. Perfect for group dinners and birthday treats on a budget.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HT9Dnsa2cwPA9gMk8
4. Sharma Vaishno Dhaba, Jewel Chowk
One of Jammu’s iconic vegetarian dhabas, Sharma Vaishno Dhaba serves fresh, homely food at extremely affordable prices. Students swear by their Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Fry, and hot Tandoori Rotis. The thalis here are super filling and cost less than ₹120. It’s close to coaching hubs, making it a common lunch spot.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ny2t2PtvPtwCV6DMA
5. Nathu’s Sweets & Restaurant, Trikuta Nagar
Nathu’s offers a more modern, comfortable seating vibe while still being affordable. It’s student-friendly and known for its Pav Bhaji, Chole Bhature, Dosa, and Chinese combos. Their snacks counter also has great patties, pastries, and chaat. With most items priced between ₹100–₹200, it’s perfect for casual outings or quick meals.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cm7guH7u2qNigyYz8
6. Café Superb, Gandhinagar
A popular, long-standing café, Café Superb is loved by college students for its affordability and comfort-food menu. Their Spring Rolls, Chole Bhature, Paneer Rolls, and Cold Coffee are absolute hits. It’s the kind of place where students sit for hours discussing assignments or planning events. Budget: ₹80–₹200.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hL6SS4PE8TBa7V4NA
7. Baldoo’s, Rajinder Bazaar
A true hidden gem! Baldoo’s is famous for its delicious Rajma Chawal, served with onions, pickles, and ghee. The food is simple, homely, and extremely affordable — especially for students living in hostels or PGs. Their Aloo Puri, Chole Puri, and Kachori Sabzi are also favourites. Everything costs ₹50–₹100.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nvNxxc5kbK8rQakH8
8. Domino’s (Residency Road) – Student Favourite Lokation
While Domino’s is everywhere, the Residency Road outlet is especially popular among students for being close to colleges and for offering regular deals. The Cheese Burst Margherita, Garlic Breadsticks, and ₹99 pizza combos are perfect for broke days. Friends often gather here for group study, chill sessions, or society meetings.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1V33myrj5wYqAj1R9
9. Ahdoos Restaurant, Residency Road
Known for authentic Kashmiri cuisine, Ahdoos is surprisingly budget-friendly for students if you choose the right dishes. Their Rogan Josh, Nadru Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao are absolutely delicious. Students often visit in groups and share dishes to split costs. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to taste local Kashmiri flavours without spending much.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TejKQszYMbHofkbC7
10. Vinayak Fast Food, Talab Tillo
A crowd-favourite among students, Vinayak Fast Food serves tasty burgers, sandwiches, chaats, and momos at very low prices. Their Paneer Momos, Veg Grilled Sandwich, and Burgers are must-tries. Perfect for evening snacks after classes or tuitions. Everything here fits in the ₹40–₹120 range.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Dy8qdjkct9hfSiot8
