Delhi, the capital of India, is a city full of energy, and its street food scene is a big part of that. The best way to get a true feel for the city is by exploring its street food, where each dish offers a taste of Delhi’s history, culture, and diversity. From the busy lanes of Chandni Chowk to the lively streets of Connaught Place, Delhi NCR is home to countless food stalls serving up some of the most popular and tasty street food.
Here is the list of all must-try street food spots in Delhi NCR:
1. Chaat – The Tangy Temptation
Chaat is synonymous with Delhi street food. The tantalizing mix of tangy tamarind, spicy chutneys, crispy puris, and crunchy sev creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Whether it’s the classic Pani Puri, the flavorful Aloo Tikki Chaat, or the savory Bhel Puri, the experience is simply irresistible.
If you’re in the mood for a chaat adventure, head straight to Chandni Chowk — the heart of Old Delhi. The area is packed with street vendors, each claiming to serve the best chaat. Alternatively, Connaught Place offers a more modern setting with a variety of food stalls, perfect for those looking for a quick chaat fix while shopping.
2. Kebabs – A Carnivore’s Dream
Delhi is famous for its kebabs, with rich and smoky flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether it’s a sizzling Seekh Kebab or a smoky Tandoori Kebab, the city offers an endless selection. The secret to these kebabs lies in their perfect blend of spices, herbs, and slow-cooked perfection.
The Jama Masjid area is an iconic destination for kebab lovers. It’s here that you’ll find some of the best Mutton Seekh Kebabs and Chicken Tikka served with naan and a side of mint chutney. The nearby Zakir Nagar also has some of the finest kebab stalls in the city, catering to both locals and tourists alike.
3. Samosas and Pakoras – The Crunchy Pair
No street food list in Delhi would be complete without samosas and pakoras. These fried snacks are a delightful blend of spices and crunch, perfect for a quick bite while wandering through the city. Whether you’re grabbing a Samosa stuffed with potatoes and peas or a crispy Pakora made from vegetables or paneer, these snacks never disappoint.
For the crispiest samosas, head to Shyam Sweets in Karol Bagh, where you’ll find some of the most mouthwatering snacks. Moolchand Flyover is another popular spot where you can munch on crispy pakoras, and the best part? These fried treats are always hot and fresh, ready to satiate your snack cravings.
4. Chole Bhature – The Hearty Classic
Chole Bhature is a favorite among Delhiites, especially for breakfast or lunch. The combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) paired with deep-fried, fluffy bhature is comfort food at its finest.
You can find one of the best Chole Bhature in Baba Nagpal Corner in Lajpat Nagar. This iconic joint serves a plate of chole bhature so large and delicious that you’ll find it hard to stop at just one. It’s a place where every bite feels like home.
5. Momos – Steamy Goodness
Momos have taken the city by storm. These steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or paneer are often served with spicy chutney that adds a whole new layer of flavor.
To savor the best Momos in the city, head over to Lajpat Nagar or Rajouri Garden. These places are packed with stalls where momos are served hot and fresh, with a spicy dip that complements the flavors perfectly. The Fried Momos here are particularly popular among the locals.
6. Jalebi and Rabri Faluda – Sweet Endings
After indulging in spicy, savory street food, you can’t miss the sugary sweetness that is a key part of Delhi’s food culture. Jalebi and Rabri Faluda are popular desserts that offer the perfect sweet ending to your food journey.
For the best Jalebi, head over to Chandni Chowk, where vendors serve this crispy, syrup-soaked delight fresh and hot. Rabri Faluda can be found in numerous stalls around Connaught Place and Sadar Bazaar, where the rich sweetness of rabri (sweetened condensed milk) paired with rose syrup, vermicelli, and ice cream is an absolute must-try.
Where to Find These Treasures?
Delhi NCR is teeming with street food vendors, and each neighborhood offers something special. For the ultimate street food experience, here are some of the best spots:
- Chandni Chowk: An iconic food hub offering everything from chaat to jalebi and kebabs.
- Connaught Place: A lively area with a blend of modern street food and traditional snacks.
- Karol Bagh: Famous for samosas and other fried snacks.
- Lajpat Nagar: The go-to place for Chole Bhature and Momos.
- Moolchand Flyover: A hotspot for crispy pakoras and other quick bites.
- Jama Masjid: The perfect place for some mouth-watering kebabs.