From Mughlai delicacies to Kasmiri cuisine, sample flavours from all over India without leaving the Chandni Chowk neighbourhood. Follow our handy guide to seek out the best of the best.
Known for amazing butter chicken along with other Mughlai delicacies, the Daryaganj branch of Moti Mahal opened up nearly five decades ago. The restaurant still holds the recognition of serving the best butter chicken in Delhi. The lip-smacking Mughlai curries served here are a must try for anyone. Other well-known dishes served here are chicken tikka masala, dal makhni, brain masala, and burrah kabab.
The restaurant which serves authentic Kashmiri food has two outlets and Chor Bizarre at Hotel Broadway in Daryaganj is the original one. Known for its use of exquisite spices, Kashmiri cuisine brims with flavour. The food at Chor Bizarre does complete justice to this reputation. Do not miss out on the Wazwan offering at Chor Bizarre, which have earned rave reviews.
No other place does butter chicken like Aslam Chicken and that has been this shop’s sweet spot for the last 20 years. The meat is first marinated in a blend of spices (part of a secret recipe), then grilled to perfection and drowned in a rich gravy of butter and yogurt. Due to its unique taste, customers find themselves visiting again and again.
Discover the best dahi bhallas – deep-friend lentil balls served with thick yogurt and chutney – at Natraj, which was established back in 1940. This popular eating joint is mostly known for two items on their menu: dahi bhalla and aloo tikki (spicy potato cutlet), both priced at Rs 50 ($0.73). For decades, Natraj has maintained its reputation simply by perfecting these two humble dishes.
Difficult to find in the unruly alleys of Chandni Chowk, but definitely worth the effort is the Bishan Swaarop Chaat Corner, famous and loved for its refreshing fruit chaat. The surprising flavors of the fruit dishes are beyond anything you’ve tasted so far. The mixed chaat for example contains not only “normal” fruits like guava, watermelon and orange, but also more bizarre ingredients such as beetroot, chickpeas and fried potato, which are then is spiced with cinnamon, pepper and masala.