As an Indian in Delhi, I have never had an issue when it comes to searching for the most authentic and delicious and value for money, North Indian food. But I’ve had friends who have pulled their hair out in trying to figure out the best places, and hence that gave me the idea to post a list of restaurants that one should definitely check out for North Indian food in Delhi- NCR. Now, of course, this list is not exhaustive and there could be more places but the places in this list are 100% tried and tested and have stood the test of time.
So without wasting any more time, let’s jump right in:
- Gulati Restaurant at Pandara Road: This restaurant is one of the oldest and most loved places for its most authentic North Indian Food. Whether you are veg or non-veg, this place offers delicacies for all. As a kid, I remember this place being our go-to place for food. The must-try dishes include Butter Chicken, Fruit Cream, Kadhai Paneer, Dahi Kebabs, Veg /Non-VegKebab Platter.
- Dhaba-The Claridges at The Claridges, Aurangzeb Road: If you love old Hindi Music, and want to enjoy your food in the most authentic setting, this is the place to be. The interiors include posters of old Hindi Films and light music by various Hindi Film Music legends like Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar play in the background in addition to the decor of a typical Indian Dhaba teleport you to a golden era. The food is the icing on the cake and what a delicious icing. The must-try dishes include Dal Makhani, Chicken Tikka, Pindi Chole, Masala Prawns, Kheer, Rabri.
- Great Kebab Factory, Hotel Radisson, Dwarka: This is pay once and eat as much you want experience. The drinks are payable extra. The kebabs, main course and sweets are served on the table. They have the best kebabs truly and the best biryani. It has both Vegetarian Kebabs and Non-Vegetarian Kebabs. The kebabs that one should definitely try are Tandoori Pineapple, Galouti Kebab( Veg and Non- Veg), Chicken Tikka, Peas Tikka. The Chicken Biryani and Veg Biryani are both a delight. One should also try it’s Dal Makhani. In case you wish to save some cash and go for a similar experience, you can try the Great Kebab Factory at Radisson Blu- Marina.
- Bukhara, ITC Maurya: This is a place which is a legend when it comes to Indian Food. This place sets the benchmark for North Indian. No-one can match the sheer perfection of this place. But remember the costs are also luxury and legendary( if you know what I mean). The must-try dishes include Dal Bukhara, Jumbo Prawns, Tandoori Prawns, Rasmalai.
- Paatra, Jaypee Siddharth, New Rajinder Nagar: Now if you are not willing to spend the amount of money as in Bukhara but still want a good enough experience, you can check this place out for Dinner. The look and feel are fairly good. The food, on the other hand, is definitely worth a mention. If you manage to reach here, do try out Chiniot ka Murg tikka, Paratdaar Paneer, Malai Brocolli, Shadras Subziyan, Kulfi.
- Masala Art, Taj Palace: This place is also a classic for authentic North Indian. This place also carries the Taj luxury with it and as always doesn’t disappoint. Must try dishes include: Dal Makhani, Biryani, Rabri, Afghani Prawns, Galouti Kebab, Murgh Makhani.
PS: This list is not for those people searching for cheap outlets but is more towards the pricey side.
I hope this list helps you in your search makes finding good north Indian food while in Delhi the least of your worries.
Do let me know what you think and please send in your suggestions in the comments below . Cheers!