New Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is renowned for its diverse culinary landscape that reflects the country’s rich heritage and multicultural influences. From street food stalls serving tantalizing snacks to high-end restaurants offering gourmet dining experiences, Delhi is a food lover’s paradise. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best restaurants and places to eat in New Delhi, showcasing a variety of cuisines and dining styles.
1. Parikrama – The Revolving Restaurant
India’s first rotating restaurant, Parikrama, is situated in Connaught Place and provides a distinctive dining experience with expansive city views. While enjoying delectable North Indian food, patrons can take in breathtaking views of Delhi sites like India Gate, the Red Fort, and Connaught Place thanks to the restaurant’s 360-degree rotation. Kebabs, curries, and a variety of sweets are among the traditional and modern foods on the menu. It is a well-liked location for romantic dinners and special occasions because of the captivating vistas and delicious cuisine.
2. Bukhara
Bukhara, an award-winning restaurant known for its authentic North Indian food, especially its delicious tandoori specialties, is located in the opulent ITC Maurya Hotel. The rustic decor, featuring wooden furnishings and mud walls, creates a cozy and welcoming environment. Signature dishes include juicy kebabs, expertly grilled, and dal Bukhara, a rich black lentil dish slow-cooked overnight. The restaurant has a devoted following among both residents and tourists from other countries thanks to its dedication to flavor and quality.
3. Karol Bagh’s Street Food
Visit Karol Bagh, where lively street food vendors fill the streets, for a true sense of Delhi. Here, you may savor regional specialties like jalebis (sweet, fried delights), parathas, and chaat (spicy appetizers). Must-visit locations include Jain Chaat for a variety of tasty appetizers and Om Corner for their mouthwatering chole bhature. For foodies wishing to experience the city’s street food culture, the vibrant atmosphere and variety of flavors make it a gourmet adventure.
4. Indian Accent
The Lodhi Hotel’s Indian Accent serves classic Indian food with a modern touch. Under the direction of Chef Manish Mehrotra, who blends regional Indian flavors with international culinary methods, the restaurant is well-known for its inventive cuisine and creative presentation. The chef’s inventiveness and attention to detail are evident in signature dishes like the butter chicken pie and blue cheese naan. Indian Accent is a great option for good dining in Delhi because of its elegant atmosphere and large wine selection.
5. Saravana Bhavan
Saravana Bhavan is a must-see among the best restaurants and places to eat in New Delhi for anyone who enjoys South Indian cuisine. This renowned chain offers authentic vegetarian dishes, including idlis (steamed rice cakes), dosas (rice crepes), and a variety of sambars (lentil soups). The restaurant is favored by both locals and visitors, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and an extensive menu that caters to all palates. For a true taste of South India, be sure to sample the filter coffee.
6. Rao’s Kitchen
Rao’s Kitchen, which is well-known for its home-style North Indian cuisine, is situated in the center of New Delhi. The restaurant takes pleasure in producing tasty meals with products that are obtained locally and freshly. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian alternatives are available on the menu; popular selections include butter chicken, paneer tikka, and a variety of aromatic curries. It’s a terrific place for casual eating and family meals because of its welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff.
7. Moti Mahal Delux
Famous for its outstanding North Indian food and lengthy history, Moti Mahal Delux is a restaurant in New Delhi. It was founded in 1947 and is recognized for having popularized the famous dal Makhani and butter chicken, which are now mainstays of Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s traditional décor, which honors its cultural past, creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Kebabs, biryanis, and aromatic curries are just a few of the many delicacies available to guests, all of which are made using traditional spices and methods. Moti Mahal Delux continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its tradition of excellence and dedication to quality.
8. The Spice Route
The Spice Route, housed in The Imperial Hotel, is well-known for its mouthwatering South Asian food and gorgeous décor. The restaurant creates an atmosphere influenced by historic trading routes, with elaborate murals and Southeast Asian items. Highlights of the menu include the Kerala-style fish curry and the fragrant curries served with fragrant jasmine rice, among other cuisines from Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. For foodies, The Spice Route is a must-visit because of its distinctive ambiance and superb cuisine.
9. Nizam’s Kathi Kabab
For an iconic Delhi experience, head to Nizam’s Kathi Kabab, famous for its delicious kathi rolls—grilled meat or vegetables wrapped in paratha bread. Located in Connaught Place, this eatery has a loyal following and is known for its flavorful kebabs and quick service. The kathi rolls come with a variety of fillings, including chicken, mutton, and paneer, making it an excellent spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The lively atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
10. Cafe Lota
Café Lota, located within the National Crafts Museum in New Delhi, is a delightful dining spot that celebrates India’s diverse culinary heritage. The café offers a menu that features regional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian flavors. Guests can savor a variety of offerings, including the Kerala-style fish curry, Rajasthani dal baati churma, and delectable vegetarian options that highlight seasonal produce. The serene ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery and handicrafts, creates a perfect setting for a relaxed meal. With its emphasis on authenticity and quality, Café Lota is a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring Delhi.
11. Lajpat Nagar’s Chaat
Lajpat Nagar’s Chaat is a culinary hotspot in New Delhi, famous for its vibrant street food scene and a plethora of chaat options. The bustling lanes are lined with vendors serving mouthwatering snacks that are a feast for the senses. Visitors can indulge in a variety of tangy and spicy chaat dishes, including aloo chaat, bhalla papdi, and bhel puri, each bursting with flavors and topped with chutneys and spices. The lively atmosphere, combined with the irresistible aromas wafting through the air, creates an exciting dining experience. For food lovers, Lajpat Nagar’s chaat offerings are an unmissable taste of Delhi’s street food culture.
12. The Pind
The Pind is one of the best restaurants and places to eat in New Delhi, offering a vibrant Punjabi dining experience that captures the essence of rural Punjab through its rustic decor and warm ambiance. With mud walls, traditional lanterns, and a village-like setting, the restaurant provides a unique atmosphere that feels like a trip to the countryside. The menu features a wide array of authentic Punjabi dishes, including tandoori specialties, rich curries, and freshly baked bread. Signature offerings like dal makhani and assorted kebabs showcase the rich flavors of Punjabi cuisine. The lively atmosphere, often enhanced by traditional music and dance, makes The Pind a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations.
13. SodaBottleOpenerWala
SodaBottleOpenerWala is a charming Irani café in New Delhi that transports guests to the vibrant streets of Mumbai. With its retro decor, complete with vintage posters and quirky memorabilia, the café exudes a nostalgic vibe. The menu features a delightful selection of Parsi and Bombay-inspired dishes, including akuri (spicy scrambled eggs), berry pulao, and bun maska (buttered bread rolls). The café also offers a range of refreshing beverages, from traditional Iranian chai to innovative cocktails. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly service, SodaBottleOpenerWala is the perfect spot for a casual meal or an afternoon coffee with friends.
14. Chaat Gali
Chaat Gali, located in Connaught Place, is a bustling food hub that offers a delightful array of traditional Indian street snacks. This vibrant destination is famous for its mouthwatering chaat, a popular category of snacks known for their tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. Visitors can indulge in a variety of chaat options, including dahi puri, papdi chaat, and aloo tikki, each bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant spices. The lively atmosphere, with vendors skillfully preparing food on the spot, adds to the excitement of the experience. Chaat Gali is a must-visit for anyone wanting to savor the authentic taste of Delhi’s street food culture.
15. The Oberoi’s Taika
Taika, located in The Oberoi Hotel, offers a luxurious dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine. The restaurant’s elegant decor, inspired by traditional Asian aesthetics, sets the stage for a memorable meal. Guests can enjoy an exquisite menu featuring dishes from China, Japan, and Thailand, crafted with the finest ingredients and innovative techniques. Highlights include sushi, dim sum, and Peking duck, all expertly prepared to showcase authentic flavors. The attentive service and sophisticated ambiance make Taika a perfect choice for special occasions or a refined dining experience in the heart of New Delhi.
For travelers flying from Santa Ana to New Delhi, Indian Eagle offers convenient flight options to make your journey easier. As you explore these dining options, you’ll satisfy your taste buds and enjoy the warmth and hospitality that define Delhi’s food culture. Moreover, with so many exceptional places to eat, each visit promises a delicious adventure. In addition, you will always discover something new and exciting in the capital’s ever-evolving culinary scene.”
