We Delhiites love our food. And for that reason, the city offers so many options when it comes to exploring different cuisines. There are so many international and national food chain outlets here, like KFC, Nizam’s, Pind Balluchi etc. But there are certain restaurants, cafes and eating joints that are exclusive to Delhi NCR, and we are absolutely proud of the amazing food they offer. We only wish they were everywhere.
So much is the love that we have put together a list of 22 eating joints in and around Delhi that the rest of India is missing out on:
1. QD’s Restaurant
If momos are your thing, then QD’s is your answer. Try their different varieties of Tandoori Momos, served with creamy mayonnaise and other spicy, tangy sauces.
Location: GTB Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Satyaniketan, Kirti Nagar
2. Big Yellow Door
This friendly, uber cool cafe is the perfect hang-out place if you’re on a budget. Must-haves are BYD Cheese ‘Bomb’ Burger, White Sauce Pasta, Nachos and Shakes.
Location: Vijay Nagar, Satyaniketan
3. Cafe Lota
Secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s the perfect place for a first date. Enjoy their modern twist to desi dishes. Cool yourself with their refreshing Masala Chaas.
Location: National Crafts Museum, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
4. Wenger’s Deli
Delhi is no stranger to Wenger’s and its sweet treats. But did you know they have a deli option where people can sit and enjoy their food even more? Perfect place for a dessert breakfast. Try their Nutella Waffles, Peri Peri Chicken Panini and Smoothies.
Location: A-18, Radial Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi
5. Al Bake
Craving for moist, juicy shawarmas that melt in your mouth? Al-Bake is your go-to place. Served with creamy mayonnaise, they make for a delicious evening bite.
Location: New Friends Colony, Jasola, Saket, Nehru Place, Noida
6. Gulati Restaurant
If you’re a Butter Chicken lover, then Gulati should be on your bucket list. But it caters to the tastes of veg and meat lovers alike. Also try Paneer Lababdar, Galouti Kebab and Kakori Kebab. Remember to book a table in advance.
Location: 6, Pandara Road Market, New Delhi
7. Rigo Restaurant
Looking for authentic Chinese and Tibetan cuisine in Delhi? Fed up of the ‘Chaines Noodless’ at the local eating joint? Go to Rigo and experience goodness without burning a hole in your pocket. Their Thukpa and Devil’s Momos are absolute delights.
Location: 180, Tibetan Old Camp, Majnu Ka Tila, New Delhi
8. Lodi – The Garden Restaurant
The perfect romantic setting for your dinner date! Enjoy European, Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine, but end it all with the delectable Homemade Fig Ice Cream.
Location: Opposite Mausam Bhawan, Near Gate 1, Lodhi Road, New Delhi
9. Karim’s
If you’re looking for amazing non-veg delights in the city, then Karim’s warrants a visit. Try Mutton Qorma, Chicken Jahangiri and Nahari to get the ultimate taste of authentic Mughlai cuisine.
Location*: Jama Masjid, Preet Vihar, Nizamuddin, Lodhi Road, Karol Bagh, Noida
10. Mahabelly
Get a taste of authentic South Indian flavours without traveling all the way to South. The dishes might be difficult to pronounce but the food is to die for.
Location: MA-A05, Ground Floor, Restaurant Block, DLF Place Mall, Saket, New Delhi
11. Billu’s Food Hut
Don’t judge the place on its appearance. Any Delhiite would vouch for it! Order anything from their assortment of pastas and feel your taste buds dancing. Special mention for Punjabi Pasta.
Location: G-28, Aggarwal Millenium Tower, Netaji Subhash Place, New Delhi
12. Sita Ram Diwan Chand
If you are in Delhi and haven’t had ‘Sita Ram ke Chhole Bhature’ then you’re wasting your life. These legendary and delectable Chhole Bhature are a must-try during a visit of the national capital.
Location: Paharganj, Pitampura
13. Potbelly Rooftop Cafe
Bihari food in Delhi? Yes! Enjoy Litti Chokha and Dalpitti while enjoying the serenity of its rooftop seating area. Also try Baggia Basket and Aloo Lalu Chop. Beat the summer heat with Sattu Cooler and feel instantly refreshed.
Location: 116-C, 4th Floor, Shahpur Jat, New Delhi
14. Rajinder Da Dhaba
If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite late night then this is your place. Great comfort food, especially the Kebabs and Chicken Malai Tikka. Their kathi rolls are perfect for ‘drive and bite’ purposes.
Location: AB-14, Safdarjung Enclave, Safdarjung, New Delhi
15. Instapizza
Imagine the goodness of biting into a pizza crust filled (yes, you read it right, FILLED) with your favourite toppings! Your dream has come true. Instapizza offers amazing deep dish pizzas. It’s one dish we wouldn’t mind going to hell for!
Location: Noida, Kalkaji, Vasant Vihar, Rajouri Garden, Gurgaon
16. Theos (Noida)
Cakes, pastries, muffins, macaroons, mousse – all things sweet at one place. Also enjoy a filling meal of Italian cuisine followed by the sweet delights. Their Blueberry Cheesecake is mind-numbingly delicious.
Location: Sec-41, Sec-50 Noida
17. Bistro 37 (Noida)
This small cafe offers an assortment of burgers, sandwiches and salads to enjoy, that too at very reasonable rates. And french fries done in so many ways – cheesy fries, red hot chilli fries, bhelpuri-style fries (What!?). Amazing, right?
Location: Shop 11, Godawri Complex, Sector 37, Noida
18. Changezi Chicken (Daryaganj)
The name says it all! If you haven’t been to this place, your Old Delhi pilgrimage remains incomplete. Visit this place and try out their signature Changezi Chicken with Khameeri Roti. Satisfy your food demons!
Location: 3614, N.S. Marg, Daryaganj, New Delhi
19. Cafe MRP
Beer at 50 bucks! Need we say more?
Location: 1st Floor, C-39, Opposite Odeon Cinema, Connaught Place, New Delhi
20. Rustom’s Parsi Bhonu
Enjoy Parsi food and hospitality at this cozy restaurant. Genuine Parsi flavours in dishes like Dhansak, Chicken Farcha, defines comfort food.
Location: 94-A/B, Adchini, New Delhi
21. Art Of Spices
Another late night food joint, famous for the ‘drive and bite’ kathi rolls. Choose from chicken, mutton, paneer and veg rolls and bite into sheer joy. Also try the Chicken Malai Tikka. Trust me when I say that you’ve never had one like this before!
Location: Karol Bagh, Paschim Vihar
22. Alkauser
This takeaway joint specializes in Mughlai cuisine with a modern take. Try their Lucknowi Dum Handi Biryani and Kakori Wrap-a-kebab. You ‘ll experience happiness like never before.
Location: Chanakyapuri, Rajinder Nagar, Punjabi Bagh, Gurgaon