Must Try Dishes in Delhi – A Complete Guide for Food Lovers
Delhi is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the capital city offers a culinary journey that blends history, tradition, and modern flavors. From spicy street food in Old Delhi to fine dining experiences in posh areas, the city never fails to impress your taste buds. In this blog, we will explore the must try dishes in Delhi that define its rich gastronomic culture.
1. Chole Bhature – A Punjabi Favorite
One of the most iconic must try dishes in Delhi, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas served with fluffy deep-fried bread. This dish is filling, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Where to try:
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- Sita Ram Diwan Chand (Paharganj)
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- Chache Di Hatti (Kamla Nagar)
2. Paranthas – The Old Delhi Specialty
Delhi’s famous Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is home to crispy, stuffed paranthas filled with potatoes, paneer, cauliflower, or even sweet fillings like khoya. This is one of the must try dishes in Delhi for breakfast lovers.
Where to try:
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- Paranthe Wali Gali (Chandni Chowk)
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- Moolchand Parantha
3. Butter Chicken – Delhi’s Mughlai Legacy
Butter Chicken is perhaps the most famous non-vegetarian must try dish in Delhi. Juicy pieces of chicken are cooked in a creamy, buttery tomato gravy, best enjoyed with naan or rice.
Where to try:
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- Moti Mahal (Daryaganj)
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- Gulati Restaurant (Pandara Road)
4. Momos – The Tibetan Touch
Over the years, momos have become a street food sensation in Delhi. Steamed or fried, stuffed with vegetables or meat, they are a light snack loved by everyone.
Where to try:
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- Dolma Aunty Momos (Lajpat Nagar)
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- Hunger Strike (Amar Colony)
5. Nihari – The Royal Breakfast
Nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew, traditionally eaten for breakfast. Originating from the Mughal era, it is now a celebrated must try dish in Delhi for meat lovers.
Where to try:
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- Karim’s (Jama Masjid)
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- Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale (Old Delhi)
6. Golgappe (Pani Puri)
Delhi’s Golgappe are known for their tangy, spicy water and crispy shells. The stuffing usually includes potatoes and chickpeas, making it one of the ultimate must try dishes in Delhi for street food fans.
Where to try:
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- Rajouri Garden Street Stalls
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- Bengali Market
7. Biryani – Aromatic and Flavorful
Biryani in Delhi is influenced by Mughlai and Awadhi traditions. The fragrant rice dish, cooked with spices and meat or vegetables, is a comforting meal.
Where to try:
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- Karim’s (Jama Masjid)
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- Al Jawahar (Old Delhi)
8. Aloo Tikki – The Street Snack Delight
Aloo Tikki is a crispy potato patty served with chutneys, curd, and sometimes chole. It is a staple in Delhi’s street food culture and definitely a must try dish in Delhi.
Where to try:
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- Bittoo Tikki Wala (Pitampura)
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- Janpath Market Stalls
9. Kebab Platter – The Mughal Influence
From Seekh Kebabs to Shami Kebabs, Delhi offers a variety of smoky, grilled delights that showcase its Mughal heritage.
Where to try:
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- Karim’s (Jama Masjid)
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- Qureshi Kabab Corner (Old Delhi)
10. Rabri Falooda – Sweet Ending
A refreshing dessert made with vermicelli, thickened milk, and rose syrup, Rabri Falooda is a cooling treat for hot Delhi afternoons.
Where to try:
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- Giani’s Di Hatti (Chandni Chowk)
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- Bikanervala
11. Jalebi – Crispy Sweetness
Hot, crispy jalebis dipped in sugar syrup are an irresistible must try dish in Delhi, especially during winters.
Where to try:
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- Old Famous Jalebi Wala (Chandni Chowk)
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- Haldiram’s
12. Kulfi – The Traditional Ice Cream
Kulfi in Delhi comes in many flavors like malai, pista, and mango. It’s denser and creamier than regular ice cream, making it a nostalgic treat.
Where to try:
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- Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale (Chandni Chowk)
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- Roshan Di Kulfi (Karol Bagh)
13. Rajma Chawal – Comfort Food
A humble but flavorful combination of kidney beans and rice, Rajma Chawal is a comfort dish for many Delhiites.
Where to try:
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- Jain Chawal Wale (Connaught Place)
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- Street food stalls across the city
14. Rolls and Shawarmas
Delhi’s street food is incomplete without juicy rolls and Middle Eastern-inspired shawarmas, making them a modern must try dish in Delhi.
Where to try:
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- Khan Chacha (Khan Market)
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- Al Bake (New Friends Colony)
15. Samosa – The Tea-Time Favorite
Stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas, deep-fried samosas are a crunchy snack loved across Delhi.
Where to try:
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- Evergreen Sweets (Green Park)
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- Street stalls in Old Delhi
Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Delhi
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- Explore both Old and New Delhi – Each has unique flavors.
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- Don’t skip street food – It’s safe if you choose popular, busy vendors.
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- Pair food with local drinks like lassi or masala chai.
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- Visit during winters for the best street food experience.
Street Food vs Fine Dining in Delhi
Delhi offers two major food experiences — street food in areas like Chandni Chowk, Karol Bagh, and Lajpat Nagar, and fine dining in restaurants like Indian Accent or Bukhara. If you truly want to taste the must try dishes in Delhi, you should explore both worlds.
Tips for Exploring Delhi’s Food Scene
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- Stay hydrated — Delhi’s street food can be spicy.
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- Visit popular vendors — Fresh food turnover is high, ensuring hygiene.
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- Travel light — You’ll want to keep eating throughout the day.
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- Pair flavors — Try a mix of spicy snacks and cooling desserts.
Best Time to Try Delhi Food
While Delhi’s food is great year-round, winter is considered the best season to explore the must try dishes in Delhi because the cooler weather makes rich and spicy foods even
