Best Foods in Delhi and Vibrant Food Street

Old Delhi’s Vibrant Food Street

In the busy streets of Old Delhi, there’s a special place for food lovers. It’s called the food street, and it’s not just about satisfying your hunger. It’s an experience that excites your senses and takes you back to a time of Mughal splendor and colonial beauty.

 A Gastronomic Journey:

 Karim’s:

 No visit to Old Delhi is complete without indulging in the culinary delights offered by Karim’s. Established in 1913, this legendary eatery is renowned for its succulent kebabs, fragrant biryanis, and rich Mughlai curries. Every bite is a testament to the centuries-old recipes passed down through generations.

Paranthe Wali Gali:

 Step into the narrow alleyways of Paranthe Wali Gali, where generations of skilled artisans have been crafting delectable parathas since the 19th century. From savory options like potato and paneer to sweet variations like rabri and banana, there’s a paratha to suit every palate.

Jalebiwala:

 Follow the delicious smell of sizzling jalebis to this famous sweet shop. Here, crispy dough coils are soaked in sugary syrup to make a delightful treat. You can enjoy them with creamy rabri or alongside hot samosas. Jalebis are a must-try in Old Delhi’s food scene.

Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala:

 Beat the heat with a refreshing serving of dahi bhalla from Natraj. These fluffy lentil dumplings, topped with creamy yogurt, tangy tamarind chutney, and a medley of spices, are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that leave taste buds tingling for more.

The Charm of Old Delhi:

As you stroll through the maze-like streets of Old Delhi, you’ll come across a mix of sights, sounds, and tastes. From the grand Jama Masjid to the lively hustle of Chandni Chowk, each corner has its own special charm that is typical of Old Delhi.

Tips for Exploring:

Come Hungry:

 With so many tempting treats to sample, make sure to arrive with an empty stomach and an adventurous spirit.

Blend In:

Embrace the hustle and bustle of the streets, and don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Old Delhi’s culture.

Stay Hydrated:

 With spicy snacks and sweet treats aplenty, be sure to stay hydrated as you navigate the food street.

Certainly! Here are some famous shops you shouldn’t miss while exploring Old Delhi’s food street:

Karim’s:

 Renowned for its Mughlai cuisine, Karim’s has been serving delectable kebabs, biryanis, and curries since 1913. It’s a must-visit for authentic Mughlai flavors.

Giani’s di Hatti:

This iconic shop is famous for its refreshing falooda, a traditional Indian dessert made with vermicelli, rose syrup, milk, and ice cream. Giani’s has been delighting customers since 1951.

Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala:

 Known for its mouthwatering dahi bhallas (lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt), Natraj has been a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike since 1940.

Paranthe Wali Gali:

 A historic lane lined with shops selling a variety of stuffed parathas (flatbreads), Paranthe Wali Gali has been a culinary hub since the 19th century. Some popular shops in this lane include Pt. Gaya Prasad Shiv Charan, Pt. Babu Ram Devi Dayal Paranthewale, and Pt. Kanhaiyalal Durga Prasad Dixit.

Jalebi Wala:

 Serving piping hot jalebis (crispy, syrupy sweets) since 1884, this shop is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their jalebis are a perfect blend of crispiness and sweetness.

Aslam Chicken Corner:

Specializing in mouthwatering tandoori chicken and butter chicken, Aslam Chicken Corner is a favorite haunt for chicken lovers. The smoky, succulent flavors make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale:

This legendary kulfi (Indian ice cream) parlor has been delighting customers since 1908. Their handcrafted kulfis come in a variety of flavors and are served inside hollowed fruits like mangoes and oranges.

Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar:

 If you’re craving chaat (savory Indian street snacks), look no further than Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar. Their array of chaat options, including paapdi chaat, aloo tikki, and golgappa, are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Keventers:

Known for its thick and creamy milkshakes, Keventers has been a favorite spot for milkshake lovers since 1925. Their classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry are a hit among visitors.

Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners:

 Established in 1901, this iconic shop is famous for its traditional Indian sweets and snacks. From melt-in-your-mouth rasgullas to crispy samosas, Chaina Ram offers a wide range of delectable treats.

Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala:

 Specializing in crispy and flavorful kachoris (deep-fried stuffed bread), Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala has been satisfying taste buds since 1971. Their kachoris are best enjoyed with spicy potato curry and tangy chutneys.

Lotan Chole Kulche Wala:

For a hearty and flavorful meal, head to Lotan Chole Kulche Wala. They serve piping hot chole (spicy chickpea curry) with soft and fluffy kulchas (leavened bread), topped with onions and tangy chutneys.

Shyam Sweets:

A beloved establishment since 1947, Shyam Sweets is famous for its delectable sweets and snacks. Don’t miss their mouthwatering bedmi puri with aloo sabzi (fried bread with potato curry) or the indulgent desi ghee sweets.

Shree Balaji Sweets & Namkeen:

This shop is perfect for people who love sweets. From traditional Indian sweets like gulab jamun and jalebi to savory snacks like namkeens and mathris, Shree Balaji offers a wide array of irresistible treats.

Haji Mohammad Hussain Fried Chicken:

 Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the fried chicken from Haji Mohammad Hussain is a must-try for chicken lovers. Served with mint chutney and onion rings, it’s a perfect snack to munch on while exploring the food street.

Bhogal Chole Bhature Wala:

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Bhogal Chole Bhature Wala’s fluffy bhaturas (fried bread) paired with spicy chole (chickpea curry). The generous portions and bold flavors are sure to leave you satisfied.

These additional famous shops add to the diverse culinary tapestry of Old Delhi’s food street, offering a plethora of flavors and experiences for visitors to savor and enjoy.

Delhi’s oldest shops on Food Street

Certainly! Among the many historic establishments in Old Delhi’s food street, here are some of the oldest:

 Giani’s di Hatti:

Established in 1951, Giani’s di Hatti is renowned for its refreshing falooda, making it one of the oldest sweet shops in the area.

Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala:

 Serving delicious dahi bhallas since 1940, Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala is one of the oldest and most famous shops in Old Delhi.

Jalebi Wala: This iconic sweet shop has been serving hot and crispy jalebis since 1884, making it one of the oldest establishments in the area.

Karim’s:

Dating back to 1913, Karim’s is a legendary eatery known for its rich Mughlai cuisine. It has stood the test of time, making it one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Old Delhi.

Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners:

 Established in 1901, Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners is one of the oldest shops in Old Delhi, known for its traditional Indian sweets and snacks.

Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale: Since 1908, Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale has been delighting customers with its handcrafted kulfis served inside hollowed fruits, making it one of the oldest kulfi shops in the area.

The End :

Old Delhi’s food street is not just a destination for culinary enthusiasts; it’s a melting pot of flavors, traditions, and history. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, a visit to this gastronomic haven is sure to leave an indelible mark on your palate and your memories. So, pack your appetite and embark on a journey through the heart and soul of Old Delhi’s vibrant food culture.