Old Delhi, with its narrow streets, bustling bazaars, and centuries-old eateries, is a haven for food lovers. This historic area of Delhi has preserved its rich culinary heritage, offering an explosion of flavors that reflect the city's diverse culture. If you're coming from outside the city, a convenient Lucknow to Delhi taxi service will ensure you arrive ready to dive into this vibrant culinary landscape. Let’s explore the flavors of Old Delhi and discover why it’s a foodie’s paradise.
Morning Delights: Breakfast in Chandni Chowk
Begin your day with a trip to Chandni Chowk, the heart of Old Delhi. Famous for its mouthwatering street food, this area comes alive in the morning with the aroma of fresh parathas, jalebis, and chai.
1. Paranthe Wali Gali
No trip to Old Delhi is complete without a stop at Paranthe Wali Gali, a lane dedicated to serving the best stuffed parathas. These fried flatbreads come in various fillings, from classic potato and paneer to unique options like banana and rabri. Served with tangy pickles, chutneys, and yogurt, these parathas are a filling and delicious start to your day.
- Must-try: Aloo paratha, paneer paratha, and lassi.
2. Jalebis at Old Famous Jalebi Wala
After a hearty breakfast, treat yourself to some piping hot jalebis from the Old Famous Jalebi Wala. This iconic shop has been serving crisp, syrup-soaked jalebis since 1884, and it's a favorite for both locals and visitors.
- Must-try: Fresh jalebis with rabri for a decadent sweet treat.
Mid-Morning Snacks: Savoring the Street Food of Old Delhi
As you continue your food journey through Old Delhi, you’ll come across numerous street vendors offering a variety of snacks that are hard to resist.
3. Dahi Bhalla and Aloo Tikki at Natraj Dahi Bhalla
Located near Chandni Chowk metro station, Natraj Dahi Bhalla is a must-visit for anyone who loves chaat. Their signature dish, dahi bhalla, is a yogurt-based snack made with lentil dumplings topped with sweet and tangy tamarind chutney, while their crispy aloo tikki (potato patties) are equally delicious.
- Must-try: Dahi bhalla, aloo tikki.
4. Kulle Ki Chaat at Hira Lal Chaat Corner
A lesser-known but equally delightful dish is kulle ki chaat, a unique snack where fruits and vegetables are hollowed out and filled with tangy spices, pomegranate seeds, and chickpeas. Head to Hira Lal Chaat Corner to try this refreshing and flavorful chaat.
- Must-try: Kulle ki chaat made with cucumber or potatoes.
Lunch: Indulging in Mughlai Cuisine
Old Delhi is famous for its Mughlai cuisine, which has been passed down through generations. For lunch, immerse yourself in the rich flavors of kebabs, biryanis, and curries that originated in the Mughal kitchens.
5. Karim’s
A visit to Old Delhi would be incomplete without dining at Karim’s, one of the city’s most famous Mughlai restaurants. Located near Jama Masjid, this century-old eatery is known for its succulent kebabs, tender mutton curries, and fragrant biryanis. The recipes here have been passed down through generations, making it a go-to spot for an authentic Mughlai feast.
- Must-try: Mutton burra, seekh kebab, and chicken jahangiri.
6. Al-Jawahar
Just a stone’s throw from Karim’s is Al-Jawahar, another legendary restaurant that serves delectable Mughlai food. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth kebabs and flavorful curries, this place offers a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.
- Must-try: Mutton korma, butter chicken, and sheermal (sweet bread).
Afternoon Sweets: A Sugar Rush in Old Delhi
No food tour of Old Delhi is complete without indulging in the city’s famous sweets. From traditional mithai to creamy desserts, there’s no shortage of options for those with a sweet tooth.
7. Giani’s Di Hatti
Located in Fatehpuri, Giani’s Di Hatti is the go-to spot for rich, creamy desserts like rabri falooda and kulfi. Their famous rabri falooda is made with thickened milk, rose syrup, and vermicelli, creating a sweet and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for a warm afternoon.
- Must-try: Rabri falooda, badam milk.
8. Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale
For something more traditional, head to Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale, a shop that’s been serving handcrafted kulfi for over a century. Their stuffed kulfis, made with real fruits like mango and pomegranate, are a unique twist on this classic Indian frozen dessert.
- Must-try: Stuffed mango kulfi, pomegranate kulfi.
Evening Bites: Savoring the Last Flavors of Old Delhi
As evening approaches, Old Delhi continues to bustle with food vendors selling freshly prepared snacks and meals. Cap off your day with some more street food before heading back.
9. Daulat Ki Chaat
A seasonal delicacy, daulat ki chaat is a fluffy, creamy dessert made with milk froth and garnished with saffron and pistachios. It’s light, airy, and melts in your mouth. You’ll find vendors selling this heavenly treat in the lanes of Chandni Chowk.
- Must-try: Daulat ki chaat, available only in winter.
Convenient Travel with Lucknow to Delhi Taxi Service
Exploring the flavors of Old Delhi can be a adventure of a lifetime, especially if you're visiting Lucknow. For a hassle-free journey, you can opt for a Lucknow to Delhi cab, ensuring a comfortable ride to the capital. This way, you’ll arrive refreshed and ready to experience the vibrant culinary culture of Old Delhi without the stress of public transportation.
