Delhi's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry: from the chaotic old city where locals and tourists alike savor sizzling kebabs and hot-off-the-tandoor rotis, to the immigrant neighborhoods and sleek new restaurants where innovative chefs push the boundaries of tradition. Each beloved Mytoury has its own story—whether it’s a family legacy, a legendary recipe, a rivalry with another restaurant, or a devoted following.
According to local food writer Sharanya Deepak, understanding Delhi is best done through its food. 'The city moves in dazzling, rapid color, pausing only for meals, so a dish is arguably the best way to grasp its essence,' she says. Meals here can be quick bites or extended feasts, with renowned spots in the historic old city and hidden gems scattered everywhere. 'Follow the enticing aroma from a side street or a small shop and let your instincts guide you,' Deepak advises.
While one list can't fully capture the essence of a city as complex as Delhi, these 38 must-visit restaurants are a great starting point. They offer comfort, innovation, and unique dining experiences that often require navigating narrow lanes or tight spaces, so don’t hesitate to ask locals for help once you’re nearby.
Tip for getting around: Avoid taxis in Old Delhi; instead, use the metro and then walk or take a rickshaw. For other parts of Delhi, like Central, East, South, and West districts, opt for Uber.
Editor’s Note: Due to disruptions in global travel caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dinogo is not currently updating international maps.
Following the Dalai Lama's escape to India in 1959, Tibetan immigrants brought with them beloved dishes like momos, steamed dumplings that are now a popular street food in Delhi. While Nepali vendors sell these dumplings across the city, the Majnu Ka Tilla area—home to a significant Tibetan community—is a hotspot. Near the local monastery, you can find a stall offering laphing, a translucent pancake filled with soybeans and spicy red chile paste. Make sure to visit the Himalayan, a cherished restaurant known for its variety of momos and Tibetan specialties such as shabaley (savory fried pastries), tingmo (yeast bread enjoyed with tea or meat dishes), and a cold beer. For a cozy spot for tea and cake, the small AMA cafe is a student favorite. Ask your cab to drop you by the monastery and stroll down the only lane to discover the food stalls and Mytouries. [$]
Beloved in North India and Pakistan, nihari is a spiced goat or beef stew slow-cooked for hours with generous amounts of ginger, served alongside khameeri roti (a light, dry flatbread) perfect for soaking up the rich stew. At Noora Nihari, a humble Mytoury in one of Delhi’s historic neighborhoods, this hearty dish simmers for 12 hours before being served to early morning worshippers and late-night revelers alike. [$]
Culinary Tour of Snacks and Sweets in Shahjahanabad (Old City)
Shahjahanabad, the historic heart of Delhi, is brimming with vendors and shops offering a variety of snacks and sweets. For savory treats, try dahi bhalla (crisp lentil balls soaked in yogurt) and aloo tikki (potato patties topped with yogurt and tamarind-mint chutneys) at the renowned Natraj chaat shop. Kanwarji Sweets is famous for its gulab jamun (milk balls soaked in cardamom and rose syrup), while Chaina Ram serves a delectable halwa made from simmered lentils. Vendors also prepare daulat ki chaat by mixing sugar, saffron, and heavy cream, then letting it blend with the morning dew before selling it to early risers (the dessert is best consumed before it melts in the heat). [$]
In Sadar Bazaar, where locals shop for everything from steel pipes to fresh produce, Ashok and Ashok stands out as a must-visit. Nestled on a quieter street within the bustling market, this Mytoury is renowned for its 'meat gravy'—a rich, slow-cooked dish of chicken or lamb simmered for over six hours in a special iron kadhai (frying pot) with house-made clarified butter. The meat, tender and deeply spiced, is served with small rotis made from makka (corn flour), garnished with green chiles and coriander. Be aware that the lamb often sells out by early afternoon, so arrive before noon for the best chance to try it, though chicken is usually available throughout the day. [$-$$]
Kachoris are a popular breakfast item across North India. Vendors fill flaky pastries with lentils or potatoes, deep-fry them, and serve with anise or mint chutneys. Jung Bahadur, located in the historic Chandni Chowk area of the old city, is a renowned spot for these treats. Their kachoris are packed with lentils and herbs, served with a side of spicy potatoes, chiles, and coriander. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or a full meal, enjoy your kachoris while wandering the nearby streets lined with closely packed shops and homes. [$]
While Delhi is home to many vendors serving the sweet rice pudding known as kheer, the Siddique family’s stall stands out as a local icon. Nestled in the heart of Old Delhi, their kheer is so beloved that locals claim it can ignite romance between couples who share it. Be prepared for engaging conversations with owner Jamaluddin Siddique, who dispenses wisdom and advice with each spoonful. This kheer, with its creamy texture and aromatic cardamom, has been a staple of Delhi’s culinary scene for centuries. Fun fact: Bollywood star Madhubala once lived above this very shop. [$]
Breakfast at this bustling stall, located in one of Delhi’s historic quarters, is a lively affair. The owner, known for his no-nonsense approach, serves up plates of bedmi aloo (spicy, slow-cooked potatoes) and nagori halwa (semolina sweetened with saffron and sugar). Accompanying these dishes are poori, light and fluffy flatbreads that are seasoned and fried fresh to order. You can complement your meal with a lassi that ranges from thick and sweet to thin and salty with a hint of black pepper, depending on your preference. The shop also has a wide selection of sweets available for a tasty midday snack. [$]
While the Jama Masjid, the grand mosque commissioned by Shah Jahan (the same emperor behind the Taj Mahal), is a must-see in Delhi, its surrounding area is also a culinary treasure trove. For an authentic Old Delhi dining experience, visit Al Jawahar, a local favorite that often outshines its more famous neighbor, Karim’s. This no-frills Mytoury features simple tables, attentive staff, and a reliable menu of traditional dishes. Gather your friends and enjoy a feast of seekh kebabs (spiced minced chicken), rich and spicy mutton korma, and sheermal (sweet, saffron-infused bread). Don’t miss the phirni rice pudding flavored with cardamom and served in clay pots, and if you have any room left, a soothing cup of sweet, milky chai. [$$]
Unlike typical naan, which often serves as a mere side, the naan from Prem Di Hatti, inspired by the Punjabi city of Amritsar, stands as a dish on its own. In West Delhi, a hub for Punjabi cuisine, this naan house fills its naan with freshly made paneer, bakes it in a tandoor, and serves it with a buttery finish and a side of pickled onions. The delight comes from the combination of warm, crumbly paneer and freshly baked bread, complemented by a thick, sweet lassi adorned with pistachios. To avoid disappointment, visit early as Prem Di Hatti tends to sell out quickly. [$]
Kulfi, often referred to as Indian ice cream, is traditionally made by cooking milk with saffron, cardamom, and pistachios, then freezing it into a popsicle-like treat. For over a century, Kuremal Mohanlal has been pioneering unique kulfi flavors. Nestled in an alley of the old city, the shop crafts kulfis from seasonal fruits such as mangoes, sapodilla, sugarcane, litchis, and jamun. They also offer innovative varieties like fig, cream, coconut, and date kulfis, along with fruit-stuffed versions inside hollowed apples and pomegranates. Kuremal is a beloved spot for a cool respite on a hot Delhi day. [$]
Minar Restaurant is renowned for its outstanding butter chicken, a dish that while originally from Moti Mahal, has reached new heights here. This upscale, classic family restaurant serves the chicken in a velvety, buttery tomato sauce that's subtly spiced. Ideal for sharing with friends, the meal includes delicious sides like dal makhani (slow-cooked black lentils) and naan, which is generously coated with butter. The rich dishes and freshly baked naan embody the essence of New Delhi's indulgent cuisine. Enjoy your feast with a chilled beer. [$$]
Butter Chicken, Daal, and Naan at Minar
Sharanya Deepak
Wenger's
Nestled within the historic walls of a Georgian-style building in Connaught Place, Wenger's bakery has been a beloved institution for generations. True to its English roots, Wenger's offers fresh cream-filled buns and jam-topped biscuits, but also features unique items like cheese-stuffed baguettes with tandoori chicken and crispy shami kebabs. For a sweet treat, opt for a 'pastry,' which here means a delightful slice of cake. For something savory, try the patties—flaky pastries filled with cheese and mushrooms, perfect with tea. [$]
Golgappe (or panipuri in Mumbai) are a staple at street stalls throughout the city. These crispy, hollow semolina balls are filled with a spicy mix of tamarind, potatoes, and chickpeas, then drenched in chilled, tangy tamarind water. Bhimsain’s Bengali Sweet House was a pioneer in bringing this dish to Delhi. The shop also serves traditional Indian sweets like ladoos (bite-sized treats with various shapes and fillings) and jalebis (sweet, spiral-shaped pastries fried and soaked in sugar syrup with saffron). The long lines outside and the prominent red storefront are signs you’ve found the right place amidst local competition. [$]
A vendor serving golgappe at Bengali Sweet House
Sharanya Deepak
Triveni Terrace Cafe
Set within one of Delhi’s vibrant art centers, Triveni Café reimagines the traditional street-side chai experience in a cozy, sit-down environment where artists, potters, and performers gather over hot beverages and snacks. The café features classic Indian treats like masala cheese toast — a hearty sandwich filled with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and cheese — and West Indian sabudana khichdi, a chilled, mildly spiced dish made with tapioca pearls and peanuts. During Delhi’s sweltering summers, Triveni’s masala chaas (spiced buttermilk) offers a refreshing escape from the heat. [$-$$]
Palak patta chaat, shammi kebabs, and chai tea at Triveni Terrace Cafe
Sharanya Deepak
Andhra Pradesh Bhavan
At the heart of Delhi’s dining scene, Andhra Pradesh Bhavan is a lively Mytoury serving up over 3,000 plates of its renowned thali daily. This bustling spot delivers authentic home-style South Indian cuisine from Andhra Pradesh, famous for its fiery flavors. A traditional thali includes rice, pooris (crispy flatbreads), two varieties of lentils, and the aromatic sambhar (a vegetable-laden lentil stew) paired with the spicy tamarind soup known as rasam. With an array of unlimited vegetables and chutneys featuring beetroot, yam, and okra, the highlight is the peppery, spicy fried lamb. Visit on a Sunday afternoon with a hearty appetite and be prepared to wait — the experience is well worth it. [$]
At Cafe Lota, you can enjoy a relaxed meal in a spacious indoor-outdoor setting, perfect for pleasant days in Delhi. The café offers a diverse menu of pan-Indian dishes, with a special focus on regional specialties often overshadowed by popular northern cuisine. Delight in breads made from ragi or millet, palak patta chaat (crispy spinach leaves with sweet yogurt and chutney), and dal dhokli (a comforting Gujarati stew with spinach and paneer dumplings). During summer, don’t miss the mango golgappe (fried semolina balls filled with mango cream). If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the café also serves refreshing drinks like aam panna (sour mango drink) and top-notch iced coffee. [$$$]
Chaat is the heart and soul of North Indian street food culture, found on almost every street corner with unique flavors from each vendor. Mangla, a renowned spot in a residential Delhi neighborhood, gained fame with a feature on Netflix’s Street Food. Known for its aloo chaat, owner Dalchand Kashyap crisps potato chunks in ghee, adding a mix of two chutneys: a fresh green coriander and mint blend, and a sweet, tangy tamarind chutney spiced with fennel seeds and jaggery. A splash of lemon juice enhances the zest, while grated radish offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Mangla’s special spices and condiments are closely guarded secrets. [$]
In the heart of the city, Perch Wine & Coffee Bar stands out with its elegant, minimalist design and an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. Known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the bar crafts some of Delhi's finest mixed drinks, including the turmeric-infused gin and the rum bunch—a refreshing mix of rum, orange, rosemary, lime, and egg white. The bar also offers an all-day menu for those moments when you’re hungry. [$$-$$$]
As a delightful extension of Delhi’s Big Chill restaurant, this charming cake shop is adorned with floral wallpaper and specializes in European-style confections. Indulge in their Viennese sponge berry cake, crafted with fresh citrus juice and layered with berry frosting, or enjoy a French chocolate eclair filled with creamy coffee. The cakery also features an assortment of velvety cheesecakes, including vanilla, blueberry, and the standout peanut butter and Kahlúa. In the mornings, you can grab a coffee, sandwich, or an almond croissant before heading to the nearby Lodi Gardens for a picnic. [$$]
This late-night gem, a modest stall nestled under an overpass, has been run by the same proprietor for decades. Known as Haji Yad Ilahi or simply chacha (uncle), he swears that moonlight makes meat taste better. Don’t miss his kakori kebabs, a historic delicacy from Delhi, famously tender and juicy thanks to a recipe dating back to the Mughal era. These kebabs are made from spiced ground lamb marinated in papaya and yogurt, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pair them with shami kebabs, round lamb patties, and fresh mint chutney. Complete your meal with a thin roomali roti and phirni, a traditional rice pudding served in clay pots with nuts and cardamom. [$]
In the historic Nizamuddin area, close to the shrine of the famous Sufi saint, sits a humble kebab shop named after one of Delhi’s celebrated poets. Ghalib Kabab Corner is reputed to serve kebabs made with the same timeless affection attributed to the poet himself. Frequented by a mix of Bollywood stars and local devotees, this small Mytoury is beloved for its beef kebabs. To enjoy the full experience, order a plate of these kebabs, accompanied by two roomali rotis and Ghalib’s signature chutney for dipping. Since taxis don’t venture into Nizamuddin Basti, get out near the mosque (Nizamuddin Dargah) and ask for directions. [$]
Beef Kebabs at Ghalib's Kabab Corner
Sharanya Deepak
Indian Accent
Since its debut, Indian Accent has been celebrated for chef Manish Mehrotra’s innovative twist on classic Indian cuisine, earning acclaim from both Delhi food lovers and the Michelin Guide. After nine years exploring Asian culinary traditions, Mehrotra launched this acclaimed restaurant, which even boasts a New York branch. His modern version of raita blends yogurt, water chestnut, and wasabi, while his braised lamb shanks are paired with traditional Punjabi lobia (black-eyed pea curry). Note that reservations are required well in advance, often up to two months ahead. [$$$$$]
Butter Baked Scallops with Saffron Cream Cauliflower
Rohit Chawla
MI Food Center
At this modest Mytoury in Central Delhi, known for its malai tikka (grilled chicken in creamy marinade), the focus is on succulent meat dishes. Run by two brothers who keep the kitchen lively with their spirited commands, the restaurant serves chicken generously coated with their unique spice blend and grilled to perfection. Pair it with a roomali roti and a mound of fresh onions. The menu also features a rich, peppery korma, but don’t miss out on the khmeri, a thick, yeasty roti that’s a standout accompaniment. [$]
A vendor grills chicken tikka at MI Meats
Sharanya Deepak
Kadimi Sweets
For 40 years, Kadimi Sweets has been a local favorite, especially for its samosas and jalebis. The traditional potato-filled samosas are a hit, but those with peas and dal are even lighter, crumblier, and packed with flavor. The jalebis, on the other hand, are thin, crisp, and drenched in a sugary, rose-infused syrup. On rainy days, these treats fly off the shelves, quickly vanishing into takeout bags. [$]
A vendor crafting jalebis at Kadimi Sweets
Sharanya Deepak
4S
Cozy and no-frills, 4S is a favorite dive bar among Delhi’s younger crowd for its straightforward ambiance and wallet-friendly prices. Sip on a rum and Coke made with the local favorite Old Monk and enjoy greasy bar snacks that have remained unchanged for years. The chile potatoes, crisped and tossed with honey, ginger, and garlic, are a hit, as is the Sichuan lamb sprinkled with sesame seeds for extra crunch. The bar fills up quickly each night with locals, so be ready for a short wait for a table. [$]
In Lajpat Nagar, a bustling area of Delhi renowned for its street food, Afghan immigrants have established Mazaar to bring the flavors of Kabul to the city. Try the borani banjan, a rich stew of eggplant and tomatoes, or the chellow kebab, featuring tender chicken marinated in lemon and yogurt, served alongside fragrant rice. If you're lucky, you might find sheer yakh, a refreshing yogurt dessert with pomegranate seeds. Even if it’s not available, you can enjoy endless cups of green tea and Afghan naan, freshly baked and beautifully patterned. [$-$$]
In the heart of Delhi’s lively central market, Baba Nagpal Corner is a favorite spot for enjoying chhole bhature, a spicy chickpea stew served with a double-fried flatbread known as bhatura. This local hotspot is renowned for its version of this classic dish, where the bhature are perfectly crisp on the outside and soft inside. Pair your generous serving with onions, green chiles, and a tangy lemon soda for the full experience. Enjoying hot chhole bhature with a friend is a lunchtime tradition that captures the essence of Delhi. [$]
Chhole bhature at Baba Nagpal Corner
Sharanya Deepak
The Categorical Eat-Pham
Located in Humayunpur, The Categorical Eat-Pham is a standout for Manipuri cuisine, bringing dishes from this hilly Northeast Indian state to Delhi. The restaurant is celebrated for its inventive young chefs who are reshaping perceptions of regional Indian food. Highlights include fish-head curry, ametpa (a tangy chutney made with fermented fish and fiery Naga king chiles), black rice sweets, aromatic duck curry, and traditional Manipuri red tea. Their eco thalis feature a selection of the best dishes, with options for fish, meat, or vegetables, and a generous serving of sweet, sticky Manipuri rice. Don’t miss the atingba, a sweet and light rice beer popular in Manipur. [$]
Located in a basement in Humayunpur, a neighborhood with a vibrant Northeast Indian community, Hornbill specializes in the distinctive flavors of the Angami Naga tribe from Nagaland. This restaurant showcases traditional Naga ingredients such as smoked pork, fermented fish, bamboo shoots, and axone, a soybean paste used in cooking. The fiery ghost peppers, a staple in Angami cuisine, are used liberally in their dishes, including the popular pork ribs. The kitchen’s bold use of these peppers ensures that the dishes are packed with heat and flavor. [$-$$]
Leo’s has become a beloved fixture in Delhi despite its international flair. This pizza haven charms with its relaxed vibe, wooden tables, and friendly staff, offering a menu that features classic Neapolitan pizzas. Owner and head pizzaiolo Amol Kumar stands by the timeless margherita and pepperoni pies, perfect for enjoying with a cold beer. Leo’s is renowned for its high-quality ingredients, commitment to pizza perfection, and is one of the few spots in the city that welcomes dogs, alongside a broad selection of wines. [$$$]
Prosciutto di Parma and arugula pizza at Leo’s
Nayantara Parikh Photography / Leo’s Facebook
Little Saigon
At Little Saigon, Vietnamese chef Hana Ho brings her culinary expertise to a cozy, one-woman operation. Dive into her delectable summer rolls filled with chicken and veggies, or savor the hand-crafted cao lau noodles, paired with tender slices of pork and fresh herbs. While Southeast Asian cuisine is rare in Delhi, Ho stands out with her authentic offerings: clay pot-braised pork, artichoke-based beverages, and some of the city’s best banh mi. A staunch advocate for traditional flavors, Ho adapts her menu with seasonal produce, earning a devoted following among local food lovers. [$$-$$$]
Perched above a lush green expanse, The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe offers a taste of Bihar’s rural heart. This Mytoury celebrates the rich and robust flavors of Bihari cuisine, known for its hearty grains like millet and flax, zesty chutneys, and grilled meats. Begin with a serving of pakoras, crispy fritters made from aubergines, potatoes, and onions, complemented by coriander and tomato chutneys. Move on to a Bihari burger featuring minced lamb coated with onions and a spicy garlic chutney, or savor the gol mirch chicken in a fiery pepper curry. Their thalis are a must-try, showcasing regional delights such as chokhas (mashed fish or vegetables), spinach-flavored pooris, dalpittis (whole wheat dumplings with lentils), crispy potatoes, raita, and boondis (deep-fried chickpea flour snacks). [$$]
Bihari Burger at The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe
Sharanya Deepak
Nimtho
Nestled beneath the Himalayas, Sikkim offers a unique blend of tribal, Tibetan, and Indian culinary traditions. Nimtho invites you to explore these flavors with dishes that highlight the region's rich heritage. Try the jhol momos, tender pork dumplings served in a comforting, spiced broth made from tomatoes, peanuts, and sesame oil. For a traditional taste, enjoy the sisnu ko raas, a nourishing soup with garlic, bone marrow, and indigenous grass known for its health benefits. The sukuti, spicy dried beef favored by Indian and Nepalese tribes, and tai-pos, bao-style buns filled with meat and egg, showcase Tibetan influences. The Sikkimese thali, featuring rice, dal, regional herb salads, and gundruk, a flavorful leafy green, is a hearty choice. Don’t miss out on Sikkim's rare teas. [$$]
In the heart of Chittaranjan Park, affectionately dubbed Delhi’s ‘Little Calcutta,’ lies a treasure trove of Bengali confections. This charming sweets shop is celebrated for its authentic Bengali treats, drawing crowds eager to indulge. Sample the mishti doi, a rich, sweet yogurt fermented in traditional clay pots. The sandesh, colorful sweets made from thick curds and golden jaggery, are a must-try, with a hint of saffron adding a special touch. Kamala Sweets also offers the rare doodhpuli, sweet rice-flour dumplings filled with coconut and date palm jaggery, available seasonally from October to February. [$$]
For the quintessential dosa experience, aficionados will guide you to Malleswaram or old Bangalore. Carnatic Cafe brings these legendary dosas to Delhi, offering a taste of South India in a cozy, nostalgic setting. Enjoy the soft and buttery Malleshwaram 18th Cross dosa, enhanced with a fragrant blend of coconut, lentils, and red chiles. Alternatively, try the plain rava dosa, a simple delight made from semolina and paired with an assortment of chutneys. The cafe also serves up puddu, crispy rice flour and ghee balls perfect for snacking. Complement your meal with coriander-spiced buttermilk and robust South Indian coffee brewed fresh in a steel pot. [$$]
At Lavaash, celebrated chef Sabyasachi Gorai, popularly known as chef Saby, has crafted a menu that pays homage to the Armenian community's rich history in Bengal. The restaurant reflects the Armenian influence on East Indian cuisine, featuring dishes like paneer skewers marinated in tamarind and mint, Bengali-style mustard-baked fish wrapped in lavash bread, and the essential khorovats, an Armenian cheese platter showcasing rare Indian cheeses. [$$$$]
Fish Enclosed in Flatbread
Lavaash by Saby / official
Blue Tokai Coffee
Since its debut in 2016, Blue Tokai has been a pioneer in bringing single-origin South Indian coffee to Delhi's coffee scene. The modern cafe, featuring a spacious, minimalist blue interior, is known for its meticulously crafted cappuccinos, lattes, and a selection of iced espresso beverages. As one of India’s few independent roasters, Blue Tokai's beans are widely available across the city for purchase or delivery. The cafe also offers a variety of sandwiches, including one with brie, onion jam, and arugula, as well as delectable cakes such as coffee cake and rich chocolate cake, beloved by its loyal patrons. [$-$$]
Nestled in Gurgaon’s business district on the outskirts of Delhi, Sibang Bakery is a sleek spot cherished by locals for its range of Korean baked treats. From sweet red-bean buns to donuts dusted with sugar or topped with tangy lemon curd frosting, there's something for everyone. Pair these delights with a robust iced coffee. The bakery also serves freshly baked cookies and ham sandwiches layered with thick, gooey cheese between warm, oven-fresh bread. Sibang’s minimalist decor and abundant caffeine options make it a popular hangout for the younger crowd in the area. [$$-$$$]
Ama Cafe Interior
AMA Cafe on Facebook
Khameeri Roti at Noora Nihari
Sharanya Deepak
Daulat ki Chaat in the Old City
Sharanya Deepak
Meat Gravy at Ashok and Ashok
Sharanya Deepak
Kachoris from Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala
Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala / Facebook
Kheer at Old Kheer Shop
Sharanya Deepak
Bedmi Aloo at Shyam Sweets
Sharanya Deepak
Interior of Al Jawahar
Sharanya Deepak
Amritsari naan at Prem Di Hatti
Sharanya Deepak
