Bikanervala Vs Haldiram’s: Navratri Thali Taste Test

Navratri fasting feels like feasting, thanks to the delicious food. And with Indian snack giants and QSRs like Bikanervala and Haldiram’s, introducing their extremely popular Navratri thalis – a comparative taste test was a necessity. In the Bikanervala vs Haldiram’s Navratri Thali showdown, we compare their Navratri Thalis based on several factors—taste, portion size, variety, packaging, and overall value.

But which one offers the best overall experience? 

In this review of Bikanervala vs Haldiram Navratri Thali, we’ll compare the most extravagant Navratri thalis options from both brands.

Our Selection Process

We ordered the Navratri Special Falahari Thali from both these joints and placed simultaneous orders through Zomato. We then evaluated the experience based on these key factors:

• Ease of ordering
• Delivery time
• Condition of the product upon arrival
• Packaging quality
• Taste of the contents 
• Value For Money

What Did We Order?

The table holds all the details of our order: 

Navratri Thali Breakdown: What’s on the Menu?

Got a Navratri-Related Query? We Answered 55 Most-Asked Questions!

Bikanervala vs Haldiram’s Navratri Thali : In-Depth Comparison

1. Packaging 

• Haldiram’s : The packaging was well-sealed. While there was some mild mixing here and there, it didn’t significantly impact the flavor of the dishes. However, it could have been more attractive in terms of design. It did come with two spoons and two tissues. The pooris were packed separately, preventing them from becoming soggy or mixing with other food items. 
• Bikanervala: Bikanervala too had a similar packaging. It includes two disposable spoons and two tissues. These are convenient additions for consumers. The pooris are packaged separately from the other items. This is likely done to maintain their crispiness and prevent them from becoming soggy. The overall box packaging is attractive.
• The Winner: Haldiram’s stood out for its secure packaging, as there were no leakages during transport. 

2. Main Dishes 

a. Salad 

• Bikanervala : The salad by Bikanervala included slices of peeled cucumber cut diagonally. 
• Haldiram’s: Haldiram’s salad had thick cucumber slices with the peel.
• The Winner: Bikanervala

b. Raita 

• Bikanervala : Bikanervala’s raita is delicious and showcases extra effort in preparation as it uses kuttu ki boondi instead of a plain cucumber raita. It was a well-executed part of the meal, tying all the elements together.
• Haldiram’s: The raita, made with cucumber, was light and refreshing but felt more basic compared to the Kuttu boondi raita from Bikanervala.
• The Winner: Bikanervala

c. Aloo Sabzi 

• Bikanervala : Flavorful however not as tangy as the one by Haldriam’s. 
• Haldiram’s: Tangier and tastier, reminiscent of traditional “bhandara” style aloo sabzi. Clear winner!
• The Winner: Haldiram’s 

d. Shahi Paneer

• Bikanervala (Paneer Subzi) : Tastes excellent and has a delightful aroma of ghee. Much more flavorful and slightly spicier than the competition.
• Haldiram’s (Paneer curry): Good but less flavorful compared to Bikanervala.
• The Winner: Bikanervala 

e. Kaddu vs Kofta 

• Bikanervala (Shahi Kofta) : An extremely good gravy but sadly the koftas were tough.
• Haldiram’s (Sitafal Sabzi/ Kaddu) : This was more flavorful and traditional as compared to Shahi Kofta by Bikanervala. 
• The Winner: Haldiram’s 

f. Breads: Singhara vs Kuttu Puri 

• Bikanervala (Kuttu ki Puri) : Kuttu poori, primarily made from buckwheat flour, is traditionally denser and has a more rustic texture. These could have been softer. 
• Haldiram’s (Singhare ki Puri) : Haldiram’s Singhare ki poori shines due to its softer texture. The best part was that it tasted great even when consumed cold. 
• The Winner: Haldiram’s 

g. Samak Khichdi 

• Bikanervala (Wet): Extremely bland. The flavors could have been better. The khichdi became gelationous. 
• Haldiram’s (Dry) : This is more flavorful and has a satisfying khila-khila texture.

Although the texture of the khichdi is subject to personal preference, we liked the flavors of the one by Haldiram’s better. 

The Winner: Haldiram’s 

3. Snacks 

• Bikanervala (Aloo Chips) : Bikanervala’s aloo chips had a better crunch, making them more enjoyable and satisfying. 
• Haldiram’s (Aloo Papad) : Haldiram’s papad, while still tasty, didn’t have the same level of crispness and has soaked in too much oil.
• The Winner: Bikanervala 

4. Desserts 

• Bikanervala (Makhane Ki Kheer): Bikanervala’s Makhana Kheer is unique and delivers a rich, creamy texture that is the perfect finish to this extravagant meal.
• Haldiram’s (Gulab Jamun): The gulab jamun by Haldiram’s could have been better. Also, it doesn’t align with the Navratri fasting theme, as it may contain ingredients that are not typically allowed during the fast. The use of alternative Navratri-friendly flours to make the gulab jamun have not been mentioned anywhere. 
• The Winner: Bikanervala 

5. Extras 

• Bikanervala (Arbi ka achar): The arbi ka achar from Bikanervala is a unique addition but it lacks the heartiness that the vada brings to the table. 
• Haldiram’s (Sabudana Vada): The sabudana vada was fried to perfection and has a crunchy and crisp outer layer. This makes it better as a side dish. 
• The Winner: Haldiram’s 

The Final Result 

The final result was a tie as both – Bikanervala Special Navratri Thali and Haldiram’s Navratri Thali were delicious. Each of the Navratri thalis has elements that might resonate differently with taste preferences. 

Two panelists favored Bikanervala Special Navratri Thali for the thoughtfulness in their thali curation. Their selection of dishes, such as the kofta, which adds richness and flavor, along with the kuttu ki boondi ka raita instead of standard raita, showcases their creativity. 

Additionally, the arbi ka achaar was a unique side dish. While the makhane ki kheer stands out as a well-crafted dessert. 

On the other hand, Haldiram’s Navratri Thali was favored by the other two panelists for their flavors and the variety available. The panelists noted that the sabudana vada was a standout item, adding a familiar and beloved taste that resonates with many. 

Haldiram’s competitive curation is another add on point which was evident in the balance of flavors across their dishes. 

Conclusion: Which Navratri Thali Should You Choose?

In summary, choosing between Bikanervala vs Haldiram’s Navratri Thali will narrow down to personal preference. 

Bikanervala excels at creativity and attentive curation, whilst Haldiram’s shines with its numerous flavors and popular dishes.

Which Navratri thali would you choose? Comment down below.