Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India, is a place where food means more than just eating to stay alive; it’s a whole way of life. Along with Indian dishes, people in Delhi also love trying foods from all around the world. You can find street food everywhere in this fast-paced city. Some famous dishes like tandoori chicken are said to have started right here in Delhi. If you’re visiting, you really should go on a food adventure to really understand what Delhi is all about. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to eat in Delhi.
Dum Pukht
Dum Pukht is all about Awadhi cuisine from Lucknow. They cook meat, spices, and herbs together inside a pot covered with dough. The meat soaks up all the flavors as it cooks, making the food amazing. This restaurant is super famous and even got named the best in India by S. Pellegrino and Acqua Panna in 2014. Their biryanis and slow-cooked kebabs are a must-try, and the restaurant itself is so fancy, with chandeliers and everything.
- Location: ITC Maurya, Chanakyapuri, Delhi
- Timings: 7 pm to 11:45 pm (Mon-Sa); 12:30 pm to 2:45 pm and 7 pm to 11:45 pm (Sunday)
- Cost for two: ₹ 4000
Indian Accent
Indian Accent is a cool place inside a small hotel. The chef mixes Indian food with ideas from the West in cool ways. They do things like stuff galawati kebabs with foie gras, strawberries, and green chili chutney. And they even play with butter chicken by adding peanut butter and roasted peanuts. If you’re into trying new things, this is your spot.
- Location: The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, Delhi
- Timings: 12 pm to 2:30 pm and 7 pm to 10:30 pm
- Cost for two: ₹ 5000
Bukhara
Bukhara is like a neighbor to Dum Pukht, but it’s totally different. It’s dark and rustic and has been around since 1978. They cook marinated meat in a tandoor and serve it with bread and curries. The famous dish here is Daal Bukhara, made from lentils cooked for 24 hours. Yep, that’s a long time!
- Location: ITC Maurya, Chanakyapuri, Delhi
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 2:45 pm and 7 pm to 11:45 pm
- Cost for two: ₹ 6500
Spice Route
Spice Route takes you on a journey along the spice route from Kerala in India to places like Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and more. The restaurant is all decked out with cool stuff from these places. They serve Asian food, and you should try the Thai-style lobster and the vermicelli payasam – it’s like a dessert with cashew nuts and raisins.
- Location: The Imperial Hotel, Janpath, Delhi
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 2:45 pm, 7 pm to 11:45 pm
- Cost for two: ₹ 6000
Dakshin
Dakshin is all about South Indian food from different states like Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. You can get all kinds of dishes, like lamb with spices or deep-fried prawns. They serve dishes that might not be vegetarian, so you get a wide range of flavors. You should try Meen Moilee, Chicken Chettinad, and Tomato Pappu.
- Location: Welcome Hotel Sheraton, Saket, Delhi
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 2:45 pm, 7:30 pm to 11:30 pm, Monday (Closed)
- Cost for two: ₹ 4000
Varq
Varq is a mix of street food and fancy dining. They give old dishes a new twist, like jalebis with silver leaves and pistachio dip. They also have cool new dishes like ganderi chicken kebabs and atta raan, which is roast leg of lamb.
- Location: Taj Mahal Hotel, Mansingh Road, Delhi
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 2:45 pm and 7 pm to 11:30 pm
- Cost for two: ₹ 4500
Karim’s
Karim’s is like a historic spot with Mughal Empire eats since 1913. Their mutton burra kebabs and tandoori chicken are legendary. You can hit up the OG spot next to Jama Masjid.
- Location: Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid, Delhi
- Timings: 9 am to 12:30 am
- Cost for two: ₹ 800
Moti Mahal is old school and hella famous. They’re the ones who dropped the recipes for burra kebabs, butter chicken, and tandoori chicken. Now they’re all over the place, from Daryaganj to other spots.
- Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Daryaganj, and others, Delhi
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Cost for two: ₹ 1000
Punjabi by Nature
Punjabi by Nature is repping Punjabi cuisine, duh. Try their raan-e-Punjab and vodka golgappa – it’s lit. They’re hanging out in different spots around Delhi.
- Location: Multiple, Delhi
- Timings: 12 pm to 11 am
- Cost for two: ₹ 1400
And that’s a wrap on some sweet eats in Delhi, my peeps!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is special about the culinary scene in Delhi?
A1: The culinary scene in Delhi is more than just eating – it’s a way of life. It combines Indian and international cuisines, making it a vibrant and diverse experience.
Q2: What role does street food play in Delhi’s food culture?
A2: Street food is an integral part of Delhi’s fast-paced lifestyle. Roadside stalls are everywhere, offering a wide variety of delicious and quick bites.
Q3: Are there any dishes that originated from Delhi’s restaurants?
A3: Yes, some famous dishes like tandoori chicken are believed to have originated in Delhi’s restaurants. These dishes have become popular worldwide.
Q4: Why is going on a food trail recommended for travelers in Delhi?
A4: Going on a food trail in Delhi allows travelers to experience the city’s true essence. It’s a great way to explore its diverse culinary offerings and cultural heritage.
