Eating Out of Hotels
Eating out has become fashionable, come of age, one might say, in Delhi. Restaurants that are high on creativity and style are aplenty. In fact, Delhi has seen a surprising rush of new openings – and you can get stand alone restaurants that serve authentic Japanese, titillating Mexican, original Indian, or simply Lebanese. Every local shopping / residential area can be expected to have a spread of eateries, but we have chosen the best of them – the ones you could definitely pick for an evening (or afternoon) out because of the food / ambience.
ESSEX FARMS
Aurobindo Marg
A spread-out place with gardens – the reason it is a popular venue for events. Serves multicuisine (noon – 11:30 pm)
KARIM’S
Jama Masjid
Almost an institution, Karim’s is a name that translates into kebabs and tandoors. The location, near Jama Masjid, creates a certain ambience, which is part of the whole Karim’s experience. (12:30 – 3:30 pm & 6:30 – 11:30 pm)
BUKHARA
Hotel ITC Maurya
Bukhara proves to be, without a doubt, the mother of all authentic Indian food experiences. The signature (and massive) hot naans and malai kebabs join the slow-cooked dal bukhara in taking your palate on a journey that will delight. You’re also encouraged to eat with your hands within the earthy and rustic interiors.
RAJINDER DA DHABA
Safdarjung Enclave Market
Starting out as a tiny counter in Safdarjung Enclave Market way back when, the man behind Rajinder De Dhaba has now branched out to include five more pseudo counters to his roster over the years. Serving malai tikka rolls and mutton seekh kebabs in plastic silver plates, this is the ultimate joint to soak in the Dhaba experience. Be prepared to stand in line to wait for your food, we promise it’ll be worth it.
SAGAR RATNA
Defence Colony Market
Efficiently serving perfectly crispy, paper-thin stuffed dosas, mini idlis, Sagar Ratna is a one-stop shop for South Indian food (mostly vegetarian). There are franchises all over the city but the original location in Defence Colony Market is utterly magical: don’t miss out on the South Indian coffee, offered in a funky steel glass.
OLIVE BAR & KITCHEN
Mehrauli
Helmed by celebrity chef Sujan Sarkar, Olive Bar & Kitchen stands tall in a row of cobblestoned streets, nestled among boutiques and bars, boasting an almost European kind of vibe. The bohemian vibe with an open-air courtyard has turned it into a quintessential spot for Sunday brunch, filled with Mediterranean food, of course.
ANDHRA BHAVAN
Ashok Road
Although Delhi is home to a whole set of “state Bhavans,” paying homage to Andhra Pradesh, stands out. A simply fashioned canteen in the Lutyens Delhi area, the venue is all about dipping into the South of the country with the non-vegetarian thalis. You cannot leave without sampling the mutton curry (available only on weekdays) and the hyderabadi biryani on the weekends.
LAZEEZ AFFAIRE
Malcha Marg
Since inception, Lazeez Affaire has come to be known for its superior service and delectable, ‘Lazeez’ khaana. Lazeez Affaire Malcha Marg was the first set up by Priyank Sukhija in the year 1999. Serving an interesting combination of Indian & fusion cuisines from two well-located outlets in the capital, the place is a popular spot for an outing with friends and family.