BEST STREET FOOD IN DELHI THAT ARE A MUST TRY – A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY NOT TO BE MISSED
Delhi, renowned as a paradise for food enthusiasts, stands out among other places in India due to its extensive array of street food choices. Those who have visited the city can affirm that it embraces a vibrant blend of cultures, fostering a warm camaraderie among its inhabitants and visitors. From the historical lanes of Chandni Chowk to the more regal ambiance of Connaught Place, Delhi, or Dilli, caters to the preferences of every individual. Furthermore, when it comes to gastronomy, the sheer diversity of options available will leave you amazed. Every street you stroll along or corner you turn will unveil a vendor offering tempting delicacies, their enticing aroma tempting you to indulge in a taste. Similar to the mythical Lotus Eaters, once you experience the flavors, you’ll never want to leave again.
As India’s capital, Delhi offers local specialties from every state, making it a true delight for your taste buds. The street food scene in Delhi is indeed a treat that both residents and tourists cherish. Here, we present some of the popular street food options in Delhi that are loved by everyone.
1. Chaat
Indian cuisine is renowned for its spiciness and rich flavors, and one delectable example is chaat. Chaat preparations and styles vary across different regions. Chaat, a simple yet delightful culinary category, encompasses a variety of beloved snacks such as Aloo Tikki, Aloo Chaat, Dahi Papri Chaat, Dahi Bhalla, Papri Chaat, Samosas, and Samosa Chaat. Did you notice the common ingredient? That’s right, it’s potatoes. Potatoes possess such versatility that they can be cooked and presented in countless ways, almost like magic, especially in Delhi’s street food scene. Whether it’s a piping hot cutlet or tikki served with spicy sauces or as a filling for samosas, potatoes are an essential ingredient in street food. Craving some mouth-watering chaat to complete a day of shopping? Then make sure to visit the following place:
Head over to: Prabhu Chaat Bhandar, UPSC Lane, ManSingh Road
2. Gol Gappas
Gol Gappas, a beloved snack among most Indians, are known by different names in various states, such as Panipuri in Maharashtra and Phuchka in West Bengal. Furthermore, their preparation methods also differ across these states. These crispy balls are crafted using semolina or wheat flour. In Delhi, Gol Gappas are filled with a spiced mixture of boiled potato cubes, chickpeas, and coriander, and are accompanied by sweet chutney. They are then immersed in chilled tangy flavored water and served. Each Gol Gappa is freshly made upon request and handed to you by the vendor as you consume it. Even the way the Gol Gappa is placed in your bowl is impeccably timed to ensure you finish the crunchy and flavorful ball in your mouth. The best part? You’ll lose count of how many you’ve had until the Gol Gappa vendor stops and informs you! These bite-sized and flavor-packed Gol Gappas are something you won’t be able to resist having just one of.
Visit: Prabhu Chaat Bhandar, UPSC Lane, ManSingh Road to indulge in this delightful treat.
3. Ram Laddoos
Prepared using split green gram flour and generously filled with spicy green mint and shredded radish, these soft and deep-fried balls are a culinary delight. This delectable dish can be found at almost every street corner and is widely regarded as one of the finest street foods in every district of Delhi, from West to South. You won’t have any trouble spotting a vendor expertly frying fresh batches of Ram Laddoos for their eager customers. These heavenly softballs effortlessly dissolve in your mouth, leaving behind a delightful blend of spiciness and tanginess that will leave you craving for more.
Make your way to Lajpat Nagar Market to savor this mouthwatering delicacy.
4. Paranthhas
As you stroll along the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk, the irresistible scent of freshly rolled and fried dough permeates the air. The aroma acts as a magnet, luring you towards its source. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, when you inquire about the best street food spots in Delhi, Chandni Chowk will inevitably emerge as one of the top recommendations. Renowned for its timeless allure, Chandni Chowk boasts the famous Paranthe Wali Gali, where each shop proudly presents a staggering selection of up to 30 different types of paranthas.
Make your way to Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk and immerse yourself in this culinary delight.
5. Kebabs
A trip to Old Delhi would be incomplete without indulging in kebabs. Referred to as the kebab town, the streets are bustling with shops and vendors offering a wide array of non-vegetarian delicacies. From the flavorful Reshmi Kebab, crafted with minced meat and coriander, to the succulent Kalmi Kebab, featuring chicken legs marinated in yogurt and cream, the options for non-vegetarian street food in Delhi are abundant. If you prefer milder flavors, we highly recommend trying the Kalmi Kebab. Another renowned dish in Delhi is the Galouti Kebab, a tender and aromatic meat kebab blended with spices and shallow-fried on a wide pan.
For an exceptional kebab experience, head to Al Jawahar or Qureshi Kebab Corner, located in Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk.
5. Chhole Bhature
If you haven’t had the pleasure of tasting the renowned Chole Bhature, then you’ve missed out on an essential experience when it comes to South Delhi’s best street food. Bhature, which is a fluffy bread made with self-rising and wheat flour, hails from Punjab and is beloved by the masses. When combined with a thick, tangy, and spicy red gravy brimming with chickpeas, garnished with onions and coriander, you have a dish that is truly divine. Served alongside a delicious tamarind sauce, Chole Bhature is a hearty dish, so it’s best enjoyed on an empty stomach. It’s a go-to option for Sunday brunches among the locals and a wonderful way to conclude a day of shopping.
For an unforgettable Chole Bhature experience, head over to Nagpal Chole Bhature, located in Amar Colony Market, South Delhi.
6. Daulat ki Chaat
Despite its name, Daulat ki Chaat is not a savory chaat but rather a sweet dish. It consists of a luscious and creamy foam obtained by churning milk. This delicate foam is then combined with sugar and saffron, and finally adorned with pistachios and almonds before being served. Indulging in this exquisite treat is a heavenly experience, and this beloved dish is truly one-of-a-kind.
To savor the delights of Daulat ki Chaat, head to Babu Ram, located in Dariba Kalan, Chandni Chowk.
7. Matar Kulcha
Matar Kulcha is one of the most popular and highly sought-after dishes when it comes to famous food items in Delhi. It serves as a healthier alternative to Chole Bhature. The recipe consists of a flatbread made from fermented dough and a flavorful white pea curry. The dish is then garnished with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and a generous squeeze of lime. This quick and satisfying snack effectively satisfies hunger pangs, and each bite is more delicious than the last.
To relish the taste of Matar Kulcha, head to Barshabulla Chowk, located in Chawri Bazaar, New Delhi.
8. Shakarkandi
Famously known as Shakarkandi chaat, this dish features steamed or roasted sweet potatoes that are cubed and served hot. It is seasoned with a generous sprinkle of chaat masala, a squeeze of lime, and a touch of star fruit to add a tangy twist. Shakarkandi chaat is not only a delightful treat but also a high-energy booster. With its rich nutritional content, it has become a popular choice among street food enthusiasts and weight watchers alike.
For a delectable serving of Shakarkandi chaat, make your way to Bishan Swaroop Fruit Chaat Corner, located in Chandni Chowk.
9. Kulfi Falooda
Presenting a desi twist on the beloved ice cream, this frozen dessert on a stick comes in a delightful milky white color and offers a sweet and refreshing taste, making it an ideal treat to combat the scorching heat of Delhi. Loaded with nuts and saffron and crowned with falooda (vermicelli), this sweet creation serves as a delectable conclusion to any meal. Resembling ice cream but with a flavor that surpasses expectations, this dish holds a prominent place as one of the oldest and most cherished items in Delhi’s street food scene.
For an authentic experience of this frozen delight, visit Roshan Di Kulfi in Karol Bagh.
10. Soya Chaap
Over the past few years, Delhi has witnessed a notable rise in the number of hawkers and vendors offering grilled and tandoori soya chaaps. These delectable vegetarian delights are often regarded as a substitute for mutton and have gained popularity even among non-vegetarians. The range of options is vast, including Afghani Soya Chaap, Tandoori Soya Chaap, and Malai Soya Chaap, among others. This is a dish that should not be overlooked.
For a memorable experience, visit Sardarji Malai Chaap Wale in Subhash Nagar and indulge in the flavorsome world of soya chaaps.
11. Rabri Jalebi
When it comes to delectable desserts, Rabri Jalebis rank high on the list, drawing the admiration of those with a sweet tooth. This sugary delight is beloved by many residents and is a popular choice for dinner parties and Sunday brunches. The combination of hot, crispy Jalebis paired with creamy Rabri has the power to bring a smile to anyone’s face at any time of the day. If you find yourself in Chandni Chowk, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this iconic dish. The sweet shop vendors there, particularly Old Famous Jalebi Wala, have perfected the art of crafting Rabri Jalebis across generations, ensuring an unmatched taste.
Make your way to Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk to savor the irresistible charm of Rabri Jalebis.
12. Honey Chilli Potatoes
Driven by our unwavering adoration for potatoes, we have ventured across borders and created a dish that is a delightful blend of flavors. Honey Chilli Potatoes epitomize the authentic fusion street food culture in Delhi. This delectable offering combines elements from Indian and Chinese cuisines, featuring deep-fried potato fingers coated in a tantalizing mix of honey, chili sauce, and sesame seeds. Garnished with fresh spring onions, these potatoes provide a mouthwatering evening snack and have swiftly gained recognition as one of the top choices for vegetarian street food in Delhi.
To relish the enticing taste of Honey Chilli Potatoes, head over to The Hudson Café located in GTB Nagar. They are sure to satisfy your cravings for this popular fusion delight.
13. Kachori Sabzi
Street food in Delhi is undoubtedly a defining aspect of the city’s identity. Among the diverse array of delectable options, the Kachori Sabji holds a special place, coming in a close second to the renowned Rajasthani Dal Kachori. This signature dish features broken Kachori, generously topped with Aloo Sabji (curry), and complemented by Mint Chutney. It serves as a beloved snack for local shop vendors, shoppers, and countless others strolling the streets of Delhi.
For an authentic and flavorsome experience of Kachori Sabji, head to Anil Kachori Wale located near Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place (C.P.). Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and savor the essence of Delhi street food at its finest.
14. Desi Burgers
Forget about the international fast food chains, because the local burger scene in Delhi is where the real charm lies. Even before popular food chains introduced their own versions of Aloo Tikkis and Veggie patties, Delhi’s bakers and vendors had already created burgers that were uniquely Indian. These burgers, often compared to Mumbai’s Vada Pavs, have carved out their own distinct identity. Among the plethora of famous food items in Delhi, Gupta Burger Center has earned a dedicated following. Their burgers boast a perfect combination of crispy Aloo Tikki, nestled within a deep-fried bun, and garnished with coleslaw and other condiments. This delectable snack is a must-try for both residents and tourists alike.
- For an exceptional burger experience, make your way to Gupta Burger Centre in Krishna Nagar. Prepare to indulge in the irresistible flavors and textures of their renowned burgers.
