by New Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a bustling metropolis teeming with rich history, diverse cultures, and, most importantly, an incredible street food scene. Whether you’re strolling through the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk or relaxing in the open-air markets of Connaught Place, one thing is guaranteed: the tantalizing aroma of street food will draw you in.
Street food in New Delhi is not just about eating; it’s a sensory experience that takes you deep into the heart of Indian culture. From spicy chaats to creamy parathas, the streets of Delhi offer a feast of flavors, textures, and tastes that define the essence of Indian cuisine.
- Chaat – The Heart of Delhi’s Street Food
Chaat is perhaps the most iconic of Delhi’s street foods, and for good reason. It’s not just a dish; it’s an entire experience that encapsulates the essence of Indian cuisine. Imagine a plate filled with a burst of colors and textures, where every bite offers a surprising combination of sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy flavors. The base is often crispy puris or fried dough, filled with a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, and yogurt, topped with a medley of chutneys, such as tangy tamarind, spicy chili, and cooling yogurt. Garnishes like sev (crispy noodles), coriander, and pomegranate seeds add extra crunch and freshness, making each mouthful an exciting journey for your taste buds. In Delhi, chaat is an art form, perfected by local vendors who craft these delicious snacks with a balance of flavors and spices that reflect the city’s vibrant food culture. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting, offering a true taste of Delhi’s street food soul.
- Where to Find It: Chandni Chowk is one of the best spots for authentic chaat. The small food stalls around Jama Masjid and Paranthe Wali Gali are a must-visit for chaat lovers.
- Price: Expect to pay around ₹50 to ₹100 (approximately $0.60 to $1.20) for a serving of chaat.
- Must-Try: Pani Puri – Hollow puris filled with a spicy tamarind-flavored water, Aloo Tikki – a crispy potato patty, and Dahi Puri – crispy puris filled with yogurt and chutneys.
The blend of ingredients and spices makes every bite a burst of flavor. The sweet tamarind chutney, the cool yogurt, and the fiery chili sauces give a perfect contrast that makes chaat one of the most satisfying street foods in Delhi.
2. Samosas – A Classic Indian Snack
A popular and much-loved snack, samosas are an essential part of New Delhi’s street food culture. These deep-fried pastries are stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, and are best enjoyed with a tangy chutney.
- Where to Find It: Samosas are sold at almost every street corner in Delhi, but the best ones can be found at Kebabs and Sweets in Chandni Chowk or Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala near Connaught Place.
- Price: ₹20 to ₹50 (about $0.25 to $0.60) per samosa.
- Must-Try: Paneer Samosa – A vegetarian version stuffed with cottage cheese and spices, or a traditional Aloo Samosa.
These hot, crispy delights are perfect for a quick snack while exploring the city. Whether you dip them in tangy tamarind chutney or enjoy them as they are, samosas never disappoint.
3. Chole Bhature – A Hearty Meal
Chole Bhature is a quintessential North Indian dish that combines spicy chickpeas (chole) with deep-fried bread (bhature). The dish is hearty, filling, and an absolute delight for anyone with a love for bold flavors.
- Where to Find It: Chole Bhature is often served in local food stalls and is a must-try at Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Punjabi Bagh, or at Shree Thakur Ji Bhature Wala near Karol Bagh.
- Price: ₹100 to ₹200 ($1.20 to $2.50) per plate.
- Must-Try: Pair your Chole Bhature with a cool lassi (yogurt drink) for a truly authentic experience.
The chickpeas are cooked in a mix of aromatic spices, and the bhature, fluffy and crispy, soaks up all the rich flavors. This dish is typically eaten for breakfast or lunch and is an essential part of Delhi’s street food culture.
4. Kebabs – A Delicious Meat Feast
For those who love grilled meat, Delhi’s kebabs are an absolute treat. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, Delhi’s kebabs are a reflection of the city’s Mughal influence, offering an assortment of meat choices, from chicken and mutton to the ever-popular seekh kebabs.
- Where to Find It: Karim’s in Chandni Chowk is legendary for its kebabs, while Khan Chacha in Khan Market serves up some of the best rolls in the city.
- Price: ₹150 to ₹400 ($1.80 to $5) for a serving of kebabs.
- Must-Try: Seekh Kebab – Minced meat rolled onto skewers and grilled to perfection, Galouti Kebab – an ultra-soft mutton kebab that melts in your mouth.
Accompanied by paratha or naan, kebabs in Delhi are a perfect meal, especially if you’re craving something savory. They are perfect for a late-night snack or a casual dinner.
5. Parathas – Delhi’s Ultimate Comfort Food
The stuffed paratha is a favorite comfort food in Delhi. These crispy, flaky flatbreads are stuffed with various fillings, ranging from potatoes and paneer to cauliflower or even meat.
- Where to Find It: Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk is one of the most iconic places to try parathas in Delhi. The entire street is dedicated to serving different types of parathas.
- Price: ₹50 to ₹100 ($0.60 to $1.20) for a plate of parathas.
- Must-Try: Aloo Paratha – Stuffed with mashed potatoes and served with curd and pickle, or Paneer Paratha – A rich and delicious version stuffed with spiced cottage cheese.
The crispiness of the paratha combined with the warm, spiced filling makes every bite a comforting experience. The parathas are typically served with pickles and yogurt on the side.
6. Dahi Bhalla – A Sweet and Savory Delight
Dahi Bhalla is a beloved street food in Delhi, cherished by locals and visitors alike for its perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. The dish consists of soft, spongy lentil dumplings made from urad dal (split black gram), which are deep-fried until golden brown and then soaked in cool, creamy yogurt. The dumplings absorb the yogurt, turning tender and flavorful. What makes Dahi Bhalla truly special is the combination of tangy tamarind chutney and spicy green chutney that is drizzled generously over the yogurt-soaked dumplings. These chutneys add an extra layer of complexity, with the tamarind offering a sweet and sour contrast, while the green chutney provides a punch of heat. To top it off, the dish is often sprinkled with roasted cumin powder, black salt, and fresh coriander, adding earthy and fragrant notes that tie everything together.
It’s the ideal dish for those seeking something light yet satisfying, with a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Dahi Bhalla is especially refreshing on hot days, as the cool yogurt and the crunchy dumplings provide a perfect balance. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal, Dahi Bhalla is an essential part of Delhi’s street food scene, embodying the city’s love for bold and harmonious flavors.
- Where to Find It: Natraj Dahi Bhalla Wala near Connaught Place and Shree Mahavir Dahi Bhalla in Chandni Chowk are popular spots.
- Price: ₹40 to ₹80 ($0.50 to $1) per serving.
- Must-Try: Dahi Bhalla – The chilled yogurt combined with spicy chutneys and the soft dumplings is incredibly soothing, especially on a hot Delhi day.
This dish is an excellent choice for those looking for something light and refreshing yet still deeply flavorful. The tangy yogurt mixed with sweet chutney and mild spiced dumplings provides a delightful contrast of flavors.
7. Aloo Tikki – Crispy Potato Patties
Aloo Tikki is another crowd favorite, especially among vegetarians. These crispy potato patties are often served with various chutneys and spices, offering a savory, crispy bite.
- Where to Find It: Sitaram Diwan Chand in Chandni Chowk is famous for its aloo tikki, while Bikanerwala near Connaught Place offers great alternatives.
- Price: ₹40 to ₹100 ($0.50 to $1.20) for a serving of aloo tikki.
- Must-Try: Aloo Tikki Chaat – Crispy aloo tikkis topped with yogurt, tamarind chutney, and sev (crispy noodles).
Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal, aloo tikki is a great option for those craving something savory, spicy, and filling.
8. Sweet Treats – Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth
Delhi’s street food scene isn’t just about savory snacks; there’s a wide array of sweet treats as well. From jalebi (crispy, syrupy dessert) to kulfi (traditional ice cream), these sweets will leave you craving more.
- Where to Find It: Chandni Chowk is home to many vendors serving traditional sweets like Jalebi Wala and Chandni Chowk Sweets.
- Price: ₹20 to ₹60 ($0.25 to $0.75) for a serving of sweet treats.
- Must-Try: Gulab Jamun – Soft, syrup-soaked dumplings, or Kulfi – Creamy, rich ice cream available in flavors like rose, mango, and pistachio.
For a sweet ending to your street food journey, these treats offer the perfect balance of indulgence.
New Delhi’s street food culture is an adventure for your taste buds. The variety of flavors, from the heat of chilies to the coolness of yogurt, from the richness of meat to the freshness of vegetables, reflects the city’s diverse heritage and rich culinary traditions. Prices are generally affordable, making it easy to sample as much as you want without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the street food of New Delhi is one experience you won’t want to miss. So, next time you’re in Delhi, make sure to explore the streets and taste the authentic, mouthwatering flavors that await you.
