Indian food is one of the most beloved cuisines in the world. With more than a thousand ethnic groups, it’s impossible to fully experience India’s culinary diversity - it’s not all Hindu-vegetarian! Being the capital, Delhi is a paradise for any foodie looking for a food adventure. Here’s our list of restaurants that you have to try, all at different price points.
Azam’s Mughlai
Located in Khan Market, the heart of the city, locals swear by the kebabs in Azam’s. This restaurant is the true street food experience. The shop is tiny and seating isn’t available. While it’s mainly catered to meat lovers, vegetarian options are available (a pattern you’ll see in most Indian restaurants). The shop opens till midnight, so it’s perfect for a pre-drinking snack!
Located at: 1B, Khan Market, New Delhi
Must-haves: Galouti kebabs, soya chaap
Al-Kauser
Another Mughlai restaurant, this one is better known for its Kakori kebabs. Kakori kebabs are a softer version of the tough Middle Eastern delicacy that melts in the mouth. The story goes that the king of Kakori was a meat lover but he was toothless; this was the chef’s solution. They also serve great biryani here so it’s not just finger food!
Located at: Shankar Road, Old Rajendar Nagar, Opposite BSES Office, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Must-have: Kakori kebabs, Biryani
Punjabi by Nature
What happens when you marry Indian and Italian cuisine? You get the naanza, the unreal combination of naan and pizza. Firmer than your usual thin crust pizza, it’s the new kid in town in Indian fusion cuisine. If you’re in Connaught Place, make a stop here for original dishes with refreshing ambience.
Located at: 30-B, F Block, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Must-haves: Naanza, chicken tikka, paneer dishes
Plum by Bent Chair
By far the most unique on this list, Plum by Bent Chair is India’s first retail restaurant. What that means is that everything you see in the restaurant is up for sale. Everything is as gaudy as you can imagine. Psychedelic is probably the right word to describe the ambience here.
You won’t find Indian food in this restaurant. The menu comprises Chinese, Japanese, and Western food. While food isn’t the selling point here (being more of a feast for eyes), the avocado and the pepper prawns are quite popular.
Located at: The Walk, Worldmark 2, Aerocity, New Delhi
Must-have: Avocado ice cream
Indian Accent
The pinnacle of fine dining in Delhi, Indian Accent has been featured everywhere and is known for its original take on modern Indian food. If American Psycho was set in Delhi, this would be Dorsia. Some of the dishes include pulled-pork with chutney, wild-mushroom kulcha drizzle with truffle oil, and tandoori salmons.
Located at: The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi
Must-have: The full-course meals
