admin New Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a food lover’s paradise. The city is an eclectic mix of cultures, traditions, and cuisines that have evolved over centuries, resulting in a culinary landscape that is as diverse as it is delicious. From street food to fine dining, New Delhi offers something for every palate, and what better way to experience its vibrant food scene than through a guided food tour?
In this article, we will explore the ten best food tours in New Delhi, each offering a unique perspective on the city’s culinary heritage.
1. Old Delhi Food Walk (Chandni Chowk)
Overview: Old Delhi is the heart and soul of the city’s culinary heritage. With narrow lanes lined with street food vendors, Old Delhi (also known as Shahjahanabad) is the perfect place to embark on a food tour that takes you through centuries-old recipes and family-owned eateries.
What to Expect:
- Signature Dishes: Start with the famous Paranthe Wali Gali, where you can sample stuffed parathas (Indian flatbreads) filled with everything from potatoes to cottage cheese. Then, head to Jung Bahadur Kachoriwala for crispy kachoris (fried bread filled with spicy stuffing) paired with tangy chutneys.
- Iconic Snacks: Try Chaat (Indian street snacks) at Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala, where you can savor crispy fried dough balls soaked in yogurt and topped with spices.
- Sweets: Don’t miss the Jalebis at Chandni Chowk, or the rich and creamy Rabri Faluda from Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wala.
Why Take This Tour?
- You’ll explore some of the oldest and most iconic food joints in the city.
- Expert guides will explain the historical significance behind each dish and the techniques that make them unique.
- Ideal for foodies who want to explore traditional and street food flavors.
Must Read: Famous Food Places in Delhi
2. Delhi Food Walks: A Heritage Walk with Food Tastings
Overview: Delhi Food Walks offers a curated, immersive experience through the city’s historical and cultural hotspots. The tours are designed to show how food is intertwined with the city’s heritage and traditions.
What to Expect:
- Thematic Focus: This tour is more than just eating—it’s about understanding Delhi’s evolution through its food. You’ll visit Chandni Chowk, Khan Market, and Connaught Place, among others, and hear about the history and origins of each dish.
- Gastronomic Delights: Enjoy a variety of dishes, including Chole Bhature (fried bread with spicy chickpeas) from Sita Ram Diwan Chand, delicious Dahi Bhalla from Natraj, and succulent kebabs from Karim’s in the Jama Masjid area.
- Cultural Insight: The guides offer a rich narrative about the city’s Mughal, British, and Rajput influences on the food culture.
Why Take This Tour?
- The tour provides a well-rounded understanding of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage.
- Ideal for those interested in a deeper, culturally insightful food experience.
3. Gastronomic Heritage Tour by Delhi Street Food Tours
Overview: This tour takes you through some of Delhi’s iconic street food destinations, giving you a chance to try local delicacies and uncover the city’s gastronomic history.
What to Expect:
- Classic Street Food: Begin with the spicy Aloo Tikki (fried potato patties) from Shree Ganesh, followed by Samosas from Al Jawahar, and Kebabs from Kareem’s in Old Delhi.
- Sweet Treats: Don’t miss the Kulfi (Indian ice cream) and Jalebi from Kuremal Mohan Lal.
- Hidden Gems: Visit local haunts that are not as famous but offer authentic, unadulterated street food. A visit to the small but popular Shahzada Chicken in Mehrauli is a treat for chicken lovers.
Why Take This Tour?
- Perfect for foodies who want to discover both popular and lesser-known gems.
- Offers an insight into street food culture and its connection to Delhi’s social fabric.
4. Walking Tour of Karim’s and Its Neighbors
Overview: No trip to Old Delhi is complete without experiencing the iconic Karim’s, a restaurant known for its Mughlai cuisine. This food tour focuses on the famous food street around Karim’s and its historical context.
What to Expect:
- Mughlai Delights: Savor rich and flavorful Mughlai dishes like Mutton Seekh Kebab, Mutton Korma, and Mutton Biryani at Karim’s, a restaurant that has been serving these delicacies since 1913.
- Historic Sites: The tour takes you through the Jama Masjid area, where you can explore the history of Mughal cuisine while tasting royal delicacies. You’ll also visit the Gali Paranthe Wali for stuffed parathas.
- Cultural Context: You’ll hear stories about how Mughal emperors shaped the culinary culture of Delhi and how Karim’s is linked to this royal legacy.
Why Take This Tour?
- Perfect for those interested in Mughlai cuisine and historical sites.
- Offers a deep dive into the world of Old Delhi’s food culture.
5. Connaught Place and Janpath Food Tour
Overview: Connaught Place, the commercial hub of New Delhi, is not only known for shopping but also for its culinary offerings. This food tour introduces you to some of the finest restaurants and street food joints in the area.
What to Expect:
- Fusion and Modern Flavors: You’ll visit modern eateries like Saravana Bhavan for South Indian fare and The Imperial for continental dining, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary tastes.
- Street Food Delights: The bustling lanes around Janpath offer chaat, parathas, and Chole Bhature from iconic stalls like Shree Gopal.
- Unique Experiences: Experience flavors from all corners of India, from Dosas and Vadas from South Indian eateries to rich Butter Chicken from local Punjabi restaurants.
Why Take This Tour?
- Great for tourists who want to experience a fusion of old and new culinary cultures in New Delhi.
- Offers an excellent mix of street food and high-end dining.
6. Khan Market Culinary Tour
Overview: Khan Market is one of the most upscale and well-known markets in New Delhi. While it’s known for shopping, its food scene is equally impressive. This food tour introduces you to the culinary delights of Khan Market and its surrounding areas.
What to Expect:
- Iconic Eateries: Enjoy flavorful street food like Chole Bhature and Samosas from local vendors, along with gourmet treats from places like Big Chill and The Monkey Bar.
- Food Styling and Shopping: Apart from eating, you’ll get a chance to explore food boutiques offering gourmet treats like exotic teas, artisanal chocolates, and freshly made dips.
- Fusion Dishes: Experience a mix of global flavors like Mediterranean mezze platters, continental breakfasts, and traditional Indian thalis.
Why Take This Tour?
- Perfect for foodies who enjoy both upscale dining and local street food in a cosmopolitan setting.
- A great way to explore the market’s food options beyond its typical shopping scene.
7. The Mughlai Food Tour in Nizamuddin
Overview: Nizamuddin is home to the famous Nizamuddin Dargah, and its food scene offers a peek into the rich Mughlai cuisine that has been influenced by Persian and Central Asian flavors. This food tour celebrates the culinary contributions of the Mughal Empire to Delhi’s food culture.
What to Expect:
- Royal Dishes: Savor traditional Mughlai dishes like Mutton Kofta, Chicken Korma, Shahi Tukda (a royal dessert), and Nihari (slow-cooked stew).
- Cultural Experience: You’ll also explore the neighborhood of Nizamuddin, known for its religious significance and rich food heritage. The area is home to many food stalls that offer traditional sweets and kebabs.
- Local Stories: Hear tales of the Sufi saints who once lived here and how their culinary traditions shaped the local food scene.
Why Take This Tour?
- A must-do for anyone interested in Mughlai and Sufi-inspired food.
- Offers a deeper connection between food and culture.
8. Vegetarian Delights of Delhi Tour
Overview: India is known for its vegetarian food, and Delhi is a hub for delicious vegetarian cuisine. This tour celebrates the wide range of meat-free options available in the city, from street food to fine dining.
What to Expect:
- Traditional Dishes: Enjoy the famous Rajma Chawal (rice with kidney beans), Chole Bhature, Dosas, Aloo Tikki, and more.
- Sweets and Desserts: Try the rich and sweet Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, and Rasgulla from renowned dessert shops.
- Healthy Options: Experience lighter, healthier options like Palak Chaat and Dhokla (steamed chickpea flour cakes), which are staples of Gujarati cuisine.
Why Take This Tour?
- Ideal for vegetarians or anyone wanting to explore the breadth of India’s vegetarian offerings.
- Offers a chance to experience authentic and healthy Indian food.
Also Read: Best 8 Pure Vegetarian Restaurants in Delhi
9. Chandni Chowk – A Tandoori Extravaganza
Overview: This food tour takes you on a flavorful journey through the tandoori food scene in Chandni Chowk, where you’ll experience the smoky goodness of Indian barbecues and roasted meats.
What to Expect:
- Grilled Delights: Begin with Tandoori Chicken from Karim’s or Moti Mahal.
- Smoky Breads and Meats: Try Naan and Roti from traditional clay ovens, and enjoy Seekh Kebabs and Shami Kebabs paired with Raita and Mint Chutney.
- Dessert: Conclude with the iconic Gulab Jamun or Jalebi.
Why Take This Tour?
- Perfect for lovers of grilled food and smoky, charred flavors.
- Ideal for those who want to learn the art of tandoori cooking.
10. Rural Delhi Food Experience
Overview: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the culinary offerings of rural Delhi. This tour takes you to villages on the outskirts of New Delhi, offering a more rustic and authentic food experience.
What to Expect:
- Traditional Village Dishes: Sample simple but flavorful dishes like Chaas (buttermilk), Sarson da Saag (mustard greens), and Makki di Roti (cornmeal flatbread).
- Fresh Ingredients: The food here is made with fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local farms.
- Village Experience: Learn about traditional cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations in rural Delhi.
Why Take This Tour?
- Ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path culinary experience.
- Provides a glimpse into rural Indian life and food culture.
Conclusion
New Delhi offers a food scene that is as dynamic and diverse as its culture. From the iconic street foods of Old Delhi to the sophisticated offerings of Khan Market, every corner of the city boasts a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re interested in street food, Mughlai cuisine, vegetarian delights, or tandoori delicacies, there’s a food tour in New Delhi to suit every taste. These tours not only introduce you to the best dishes but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and stories behind the food. So, the next time you’re in the city, be sure to book a food tour and explore the culinary wonders that make New Delhi one of the world’s best food destinations.