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Delhi food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Delhi.
Photo by Brijender Dua on Unsplash
What to eat in Delhi
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
$4–$8
Tender pieces of chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy, this dish is a globally recognized Punjabi classic that originated in Delhi. Its decadent flavor profile makes it a must-try for any visitor.
Where to try: The eateries in Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk are known for excellent versions.
Chaat
$0.5–$2
A broad category of savory snacks, Delhi's chaat is an explosion of textures and flavors, featuring fried dough, potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and chutneys. It's the quintessential Delhi street food experience.
Where to try: Street vendors in Chandni Chowk, especially around Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner, and Lajpat Nagar Market.
Paranthe Wali Gali specialties
$1–$3
While the original paratha shops have moved, the legacy of deep-fried, stuffed flatbreads remains a Delhi icon. Look for places serving variations stuffed with paneer, potatoes, or mixed vegetables.
Where to try: The lanes branching off Chandni Chowk still offer a wide variety of stuffed parathas.
Dal Makhani
$3–$6
A slow-cooked lentil dish made with black lentils and kidney beans, simmered in a creamy, buttery tomato sauce. It's a comforting and deeply flavorful staple often served with naan or rice.
Where to try: Many restaurants across Delhi serve this, with notable versions found in Punjabi-focused eateries in Karol Bagh.
Kebab
$3–$7
Delhi offers a vast array of kebabs, from succulent seekh kebabs to melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs. These grilled or pan-fried minced meat preparations are a legacy of Mughal cuisine.
Where to try: The streets of Old Delhi, particularly near Jama Masjid, and the food stalls in Khan Market.
Aloo Tikki
$0.5–$1.5
Spiced potato patties, often deep-fried until golden and crispy, served with chutneys and yogurt. It's a popular street food snack that's both satisfying and flavorful.
Where to try: Street food vendors throughout Delhi, with popular spots in Lajpat Nagar and Kamla Nagar.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Chandni Chowk
Bustling, historic, chaotic street food paradise.
Street FoodBudget EatsAuthentic Flavors
Connaught Place
Central, colonial-era hub with a mix of upscale dining and casual eateries.
International CuisineIndian ClassicsShopping Break
Khan Market
Upmarket, cosmopolitan, with a sophisticated selection of restaurants and cafes.
Gourmet DiningCafesBookstores
Karol Bagh
Energetic, commercial, known for its diverse range of restaurants and street food.
Punjabi FoodStreet FoodShopping
Dietary notes
Delhi's cuisine is incredibly accommodating for vegetarians, with a vast array of lentil, vegetable, and paneer-based dishes. Vegan options are also increasingly available, especially in cafes and restaurants catering to international tastes, though traditional dishes may use ghee or dairy.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not mandatory in most establishments, but a small tip (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated.
- •Carry some cash, especially for street food and smaller shops, though card payments are widely accepted in larger restaurants and stores.
- •It's customary to eat with your right hand, particularly when eating traditional Indian meals.
- •When visiting religious sites, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.