Best Places to Eat in Delhi – From Street Food Havens to Fine Dining Hotspots

When traveling to Delhi, you might arrive with plans to “eat clean” or “be sensible”. But Delhi, much like that enthusiastic mohalle ka auntie who thinks you’ve lost weight, will absolutely not allow such nonsense. This is a city where food isn’t a side activity. It’s the main character, the plot, the twist, the climax, and the epilogue.

The capital city layers its flavors like stories – old, new, borrowed, and occasionally deep-fried. One moment you’re in a centuries-old lane where kebabs have been crafted longer than your entire ancestry; the next, you’re staring at a dish so modern it could probably get verified on Instagram. And that’s Delhi food for you. Bold, joyful, occasionally overwhelming, but always ready to take you on a culinary joyride. 

7 Best Places to Eat in Delhi

 Whether you’re seeking the best places to eat in Delhi or simply hitting up one of the best eating joints in Delhi by accident, the city greets you with open arms and fuller plates. So if you’re planning your next food trail (and maybe booking a self-drive car rental in Delhi to hop between these spots without losing momentum), here’s a chatty, honest guide to some of the city’s most iconic, beloved, and downright unforgettable food destinations.

1. Karim’s, Jama Masjid – Where Mughlai History Is Served Hot

Karim’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s practically a culinary monument. Founded in 1913 by the former royal cooks of the Mughal emperors, this place is always on the list of Delhi’s famous places to eat, and deservedly so. There’s something magical about weaving through the narrow lanes of Jama Masjid only to be rewarded by the aroma of sizzling kebabs and buttery gravies.

You cannot go wrong with the mutton seekh kebab—juicy, smoky, and wonderfully spiced. The mutton korma is velvety and rich, perfect with freshly baked tandoori rotis. If you’re hunting for the best dining place in Delhi for authentic Mughlai, Karim’s remains undefeated. Just go with an empty stomach and an open heart.

2. Paranthe Wali Gali, Chandni Chowk – The Carb Kingdom

If your soul finds comfort in carbs (don’t we all?), Paranthe Wali Gali is where your heart and stomach shake hands. A historic lane that has served stuffed parathas for more than a century, it’s one of those Delhi food places you must visit at least once—even if it means leaving with a food baby.

These aren’t delicate, “I’m-being-healthy” parathas. These are unapologetically rich, deep-fried delights stuffed with everything from potatoes and cottage cheese to cashews and even rabri. Served with kaddu sabzi, tamarind chutney, and tangy pickles, these parathas are a rite of passage. If you want a taste of nostalgia mixed with adventure, this is one of the best places to eat in Delhi that will never disappoint.

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3. Bukhara, ITC Maurya – Frontier Cuisine with Timeless Charm

If fine dining had a North Indian crown, Bukhara would wear it. A global icon, it has consistently ranked among the best dining places in Delhi for decades. Heads of state, actors, chefs, and food lovers from all corners have savoured the legendary Dal Bukhara—slow-cooked overnight into a creamy, smoky dream.

The Sikandari Raan is a showstopper, marinated for hours and roasted until it melts in your mouth. The rustic ambience, clay-tandoor cooking, and no-cutlery tradition make the experience both luxurious and earthy. If you’re booking a car rental in Delhi to explore culinary hotspots, Bukhara is a mandatory stop for a comforting yet elevated meal.

4. Indian Accent, Lodhi Road – Contemporary Indian With a Stylish Twist

Indian Accent is where Indian cuisine goes to graduate school, adds a touch of global flair, and returns home sharper than ever. Consistently featured on Asia’s best restaurant lists, it’s one of the best eating joints in Delhi for those who enjoy creativity without chaos.

The blue cheese naan is a signature conversation starter, while the slow-cooked pork ribs glazed with Indian spices are pure indulgence. The tasting menus feel like curated journeys through India’s culinary diversity. Whether it’s a special occasion or a “treat yourself” moment, Indian Accent is one of Delhi’s famous places to eat that delivers sophistication without pretension.

5. Saravana Bhavan, Connaught Place – Where Comfort Meets Consistency

Not every iconic meal in Delhi needs to be heavy or spice-laden. Sometimes, all you need is the comforting crunch of a dosa or the softness of an idli that feels like a warm cloud. Saravana Bhavan, with its global footprint and loyal fanbase, brings the soul of South Indian cuisine to the capital.

Its Connaught Place outlet is especially beloved for piping hot masala dosas, perfectly fluffy idlis, aromatic sambar, and filter coffee that wakes up your ancestors. Among Delhi food places for vegetarian comfort, this stands tall—and extremely busy at mealtimes. Grab a quick lunch, or settle in for a long breakfast; either way, you’ll leave smiling.

6. Rajinder Da Dhaba, Safdarjung – Legendary, Loud, and Loaded With Flavour

If you ask any local for the best places to eat in Delhi that are affordable yet unforgettable, Rajinder Da Dhaba will come up within minutes. What began as a small stall evolved into a multi-outlet powerhouse that serves some of the most addictive kebabs, rolls, and curries in town.

The mutton seekh roll has a fandom of its own, and the butter chicken is unapologetically rich and tangy. It’s chaotic, crowded, and utterly Delhi. If you’re compiling a list of the best eating joints in Delhi that represent the city’s spirit, this dhaba deserves a loud, spicy shoutout.

7. Jama Masjid Street Food – The Night Market of Dreams

This isn’t a single spot but an entire district of flavour, making it one of the most dynamic Delhi food places to explore. As the sun goes down, the area around Jama Masjid comes alive with sizzling grills, giant degs of nihari, fragrant biryanis, and syrupy desserts.

You’ll find buttery chicken at Aslam’s, legendary fried chicken at Haji Mohd Hussain, and an endless parade of kebabs that look and smell like happiness. It’s vibrant, it’s chaotic, and it’s easily one of Delhi’s famous places to eat if you love food with personality.

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So Which One Should You Try First?

Picking the best dining place in Delhi depends entirely on your mood. Want history on a plate? Pick Karim’s. Want innovation? Indian Accent. Want a nostalgic, carb-loaded feast? Paranthe Wali Gali is waiting. Planning to explore multiple spots in one day? A car rental in Delhi will keep your food trail smooth.

What ties these places together is Delhi’s signature enthusiasm—a generous, bold approach to cooking and eating. These best places to eat in Delhi celebrate everything the city stands for: warmth, creativity, heritage, and above all, flavour.

Whichever destination you choose, you won’t just have a meal—you’ll have a story. After all, in Delhi, food isn’t just sustenance. It’s culture, comedy, therapy, and celebration rolled into one delicious experience. Enjoy every bite.