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Feb 27, 2023 128 tweets 58 min read Read on X
I arrived in Delhi on 14 February 2022. In little over a year, I have visited 120+ food shops / stalls and sampled approx. 200 different dishes that this city has to offer

Here's a Comprehensive* Thread of all the Street Food to be found in Dilli, Pt. 1

Do Like / RT :D
I plan on writing longer reviews on all of these in my food blog. Check it out at spicydabeli.substack.com and do subscribe!

Thread's divided into 9 parts -

1. Veg Breakfast
2. Mughlai
3. Chaat
4. Punjabi
5. Momos
6. Sweets
7. CR Park
8. South Indian
9. "Western"
Starting the morning with Veg Breakfasts,

1. Standard Sweets, just outside Chawri Bazaar metro station.

Their Aloo-Chhole-Kofta Poori is one of the best breakfasts ypu can get in the city. Do pair it with their Nagauri Halwa - I love the flavour of ghee that shines through.
2. Sardarji Puri Wale, Daryaganj

This undescript shop has been serving Ansari Rd since 1947, after its founder migrated to Dilli from Rawalpindi. Have their urad dal pooris with an aloo-chhole sabzi made without garlic or onion. The closest breakfast spot to the Feroz Shah Kotla
3. Banshi di Hatti - Rawalpindi ke Mashhuur Chhole Bhatuure, Malka Ganj Chowk

These are probably the best Chhole Bhatuure I've had in Dilli. Masala Blend 10/10. Only complaint? They don't have lassi or achaar.

Review on it due this week at spicydabeli.substack.com, do subscribe
4. Rama ke Chhole Bhatuure, Jail Rd, Tilak Nagar

This is Virat Kohli's favourite Chhole Bhatuure spot according to an interview in BWC. My review? Mixed bag. Been there twice - loved it in Feb '22 but disliked it when I went the Sunday after Koach hit his 71st. Try for ypurself!
5. Kachori - Aloo ki Sabzi @ Jay Kishan Bhagwan Lal, Chandni Chowk

I had these with at night, and haven't been able to locate the shop on Maps so idk timings (likely that they serve bedmi poori for breakfast). But it encapsulates the rustic taste that Chandni Chowk is known for.
6. An unnamed vendor outside Select Citywalk, Saket

A place special to my heart to wrap up category-1. His Chhole Kulche was fabulous. And also, the first thing I had in Delhi. He sits by the entrance of the MGF Metropolitan Mall, right under the foot-over bridge.
With that, we come to an end of the first category. Before we move on, many of ypu might be questioning the exclusion of spots such as Sita Ram Diwan Chand or Chache di Hatti.

Let me clarify (feel free to skip btw)

It is virtually impossible to cover all spots in Dilli in ...
... just a year. I do claim in my first tweet that this is Part-1 of a Comprehensive* Thread of food in Dilli. I have missed out on many iconic spots, which I hope to cover this year and post in Part-2. Do not get offended by the exclusion of a spot. I just haven't been there :(
Back to what we're here for - Mughlai Food. I can claim that this is the most "complete" section of the list.

Starting with the Top-3 Seekh in the city

7. Kale Baba Kebab Waley, Chitli Qabar

Have their seekh, bheja and tikka. Lost for words to describe its brilliance.
8. Sangam Kebab Corner, Ballimaran

This opens pretty late. I recommend going at 8:30 or 9:00. But their minty and spicy Seekh Kebabs are worth drooling over for.
9. Talib Kebab, Zakir Nagar

A popular and cheap haunt for students. I recommend skipping the chutney though, its too spicy. They also serve boti kebabs, which I'm yet to try.

(Do note that my Top-3 Seekh Kebabs are not in any particular order. I can't make up my mind lol)
10. Bismillah, Matia Mahal

Dilli has popularized the "butter seekh kebab", inspired by Aslam's "butter chicken". IMO, Bismillah in Matia Mahal serves it best. The masalas are strong enough that they burst through the taste of butter. Recommended over Qureshi any day
11. Qureshi Kabab Corner, Kalan Mahal

Okay, fair enough, Qureshi's not as bad as I may have made it seem. Its still the second-best butter-drenched seekh in my opinion. The masalas are good, the chutney provides great contrast and the meat is tender. What else does one need?
12. Lalu Kababee, Urdu Bazaar Road

Lalu serves masaaledaar kebabs with tender meat, but honestly, there are better options available in the area at better prices. I think this is a bit overpriced (true of all stalls on the main road cause they're geared towards tourists).
13. Al Nisar Kababi, Urdu Bazaar Road

This is located on the main road & is priced lower than the other stalls. Its kebabs are good, though not the best, but they're worthwhile for someone who doesn't want to venture in the narrow lanes of Chitli Qabar. The owner's friendly too!
14. Babu Bhai Kebab Wale, Chitli Qabar

Back to non-buttery kebabs. Babu Bhai Kebab Wale is the definition of a hole-in-the-wall shop. The owner, Mohd. Shakir, sits in a cramped space, grilling kebabs as the orders come in. Highly recommend their Seekh Kebabs to everyone.
15. Lucknowi Galawati Kebab, Zakir Nagar

In my very humble opinion, these are the best kebabs ypu can possibly have across the many cities of Dilli. Masaledaar, soft and meaty. What else does a kebab need? Do read my blog post on it👇

spicydabeli.substack.com/p/tidbits-of-a…
16. Al Kuresh, Yashwant Place

Too much too say, too little space. all I'll say is that briefly, this was almost a fortnightly pilgrimage spot for me :)

Pictured : Mutton Galawati Kebab (best of the 4), Mutton Kakori Kebab, Mutton Nihari (only available in winter) & Mutton Burra
17. Al Kauser, RK Puram

The kebab I've had the most in my life is this places' Mutton Kakori Kebab. Tastes lighter than feather. Also have their Mutton Burra and Mutton Galawati. I wouldn't recommend anything else. Their Chicken Seekh may be one of the worst kebabs I've had tbh
18. Ghalib Kabab Corner, Nizamuddin

I am yet to explore Nizamuddin at depth. One reason is because I'm too lazy to take an e-rik from JLN Stadium. A bigger reason is because their fare is just too good.

Featured :

Seekh Kebabs (B/M)
Mutton Shami Kebab
Tikkas
Nihari
19. Bhaijaan Kebab, Chitli Qabar

Speaking of Shami Kebabs, Bhaijaan Kebab serves the most unique Chicken Shami that one can have in the city. Their kebabs are wonderfully stringy, a contrast to the usual meatiness. Only INR 20/- a piece.

Read more 👇

spicydabeli.substack.com/p/bhaijaan-keb…
20. Wenger's, CP

One can not talk of the Shami Kebab without mentioning Wenger's :) This place has been inscrbed permanently into the food legacy of Dilli. I would recommend almost everything they serve here. Pictured : Shami Kebab & Mushroom Patty. Pastries in a later section
21. Zahra, Tikona Park Rd

I'm not much of a fan of the Moradabadi Biryani that Dilli has to serve. I find it bland. Keeping that in mind, Zahra's Hyderabadi Biryani may as well be the best Biryani I've had in the city.

Their Tandoori Chai is overrated though. Nothing special
22. Mohd Taufiq Dilpasand Biryani, Chitli Qabar

The reason I don't prefer Moradabadi Biryani is because it tends to be lighter on the spices and heavier on the aromas. The reason I love Taufiq's biryani is because it goes heavy on the spices. And the achaar is the cherry on top.
23. Al Nawaz, Okhla

This would be an aroma-based Morabadi Biryani. I have tried their Chicken Biryani. Yet to have their Mutton Biryani and Kalmi Kebab.

Though, as a student, I find this pretty expensive and for the price, there are better or equally good options in the area.
24. Hammad Biryani, Okhla

Cheap and good Moradabadi Biryani for what its worth. Literally opposite Al Nawaz. (Though, I'm forgetting the exact taste of Al Nawaz. Don't assume I hate it, I don't lol)

Worth trying if in the area
25. Hilal Hotel, Matia Mahal

In my opinion, this is the best Nihari that I have tried so far in Dilli (yet to try many spots around though :P). I was blown away by how soft the meat is. I recommend using all the ginger and chillies they give ypu
26. Yaseen, Matia Mahal

One day in early January, I woke up at 7:30 am and travelled 18 kilometers just to try out this Nihari.

Would I recommend it? 110% YES
27. MI Foods, Meherchand Market

Do have their Mutton Nihari. It is an underrated spot that very few in the city know of. Their Changezi Chicken is good too. I have also had their Chicken Shawarma and Mutton Seekh, which I fancy less. Perfect spot to eat after a hangout at Lodhi
28. Changezi Chicken, Daryaganj

As the name of the restaurant may suggest, this place is very popular for its Chicken Changezi, it constantly simmering in a huge tawa that decorates its exterior. Also have their Afghani Chicken and Chicken Satay, which are small skewers.
Though, I wouldn't recommend having items that are grilled / roasted, barring the Satay. Featured below are their Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Shami Kebab, Chicken Seekh Kebab and Chicken Tikka. I didn't like any of them. Stick to the gravy items, which are spectacular.
29. Zaika, Daryaganj

If ypu're in the area and want to have Tikkas, I would recommend Zaika's Chicken Tikkas drenched in Butter instead. Literally next to Changezi, they're easily the second-best chicken tikkas I've had in this city. (I haven't had anything else from here)
30. Anmol Chicken Corner, Urdu Bazaar

This was the best place to have butter-drenched chicken tikkas in Dilli. It closed down in June '22. I have not been able to gather the spirit to explore any other Tikka spot, which is why the famous Aslam remains unvisited by me too. RIP
31. Shafiq Chicken Corner - Zakir Nagar

This may be the first of many "Don't Recommends" on this list. The chicken was too dry, and the masalas were buried beneath the dollops of butter. Would skip this if in the area. (Or maybe, it deserves a second chance?)
32. Anmol Chicken Corner, Lalkuan

This is a fairly small makeshift stall on the road that leads to Sangam from Hauz Qazi Chowk. I had their Seekh Kebabs and Butter-Drenched Tikkas once, which I quite liked. Not to be confused with the now-defunct Anmol that I mentioned above.
33. Saeed Roll, Zakir Nagar

Let's revisit Zakir Nagar. I don't have a lot to say about this spot. Except that their Chicken Rolls are spicy, filling, inexpensive and handy to have on-the-go.
34. Al Bake, Tikona Park

Speaking of rolls, this is my cue to segue into the next food item - Shawarmas. Al Bake's Chicken Shawarmas in Tikona Park are quite popular, and not without reason. Probably the most spiciest Chicken Shawarma in the city.
35. Lebanese Point, Saket

Apologies for the terrible pic. But Dilli Shawarma is infamous for "not being Shawarma". It's pieces of chicken, often cooked on a tawa, wrapped in a roti. IMHO Lebanese Point's Shawarma is the closest to an actual Shawarma that ypu'll get in the city.
36. Roti aur Boti, Gujranwala Town

Honestly, I don't have many unique things to say about the Chicken Shawarmas. Though, I felt this one is smaller than the rest. Still, would recommend if in the area. Just that it might not be as filling as ypu expected.
37. Lebanese Buff Shawarma, Okhla

This is MILES better than any Chicken Shawarma one can find in the city. The meat is very well cooked and its served with a wonderful green chutney and "mayonnaise" that contrasts the spice of the roll

Prolly my 2nd-favorite "Shawarma" in Dilli
38. Orhan Shawarma House, Okhla

This is my favorite Shawarma. Reason? (1.) It's buff meat, not chicken (2.) While the above one is spicy, I felt that Orhan's Shawarma have a smokier flavour to it, which blew my tastebuds away. Loved it
39. Haji Mohammad Hussain, Matia Mahal

If ypu're in Dilli, and go to KFC for fried chicken, I am extremely disappointed in ypu. Haji Md. Hussain, popularly known as JFC (Jama Fried Chicken), is the most iconic fried chicken spot in Dilli. Their secret? Peele Mirch Ki Chutney.
40. Gulbahar Chicken Fry, Zakir Nagar

This spot is almost always crowded in the evenings. It is impossible to get a seat. I have only eaten takeaway, but dare I say that it is better than Haji Md. Hussain's fare. Their outer coating and their masalas used is just >>>
41. Javed ki Famous Nihari

I am yet to try many popular dishes that this place is known for. Most notably, its Nihari. But here's their Chicken Qorma (the only thing I've had). The aroma of Kewra makes it worth revisiting again and again
42. Zaika-e-Awadh, Tikona Park

We move on to the ones I'd not put at the top. Will quickly skim through

1. Galawati Kebabs
2. Kashmiri Chai
3. Pasanda Kebab (The only place I've seen this being sold)

Decent, but wayyyyyyyyy better spots in the area
43. Sab ki Khatir, Lodhi Road

The Mutton Galawati Kebabs were skippable. But they also served Chicken Ghilafi Kebabs, which were kebabs with whole pieces of tomatoes and capsicum. Not excellent, but very unique
44. Qureshi, Khan Market

This may be the most unique Mutton Kakori Kebab I've had in that the flavour of yellow chilli is very prominent. A bit too much for my liking, it becomes extremely pungent after a point. But its definitely one of the unique gems of the city.
45. Qureshi Kabab Corner, Meena Bazaar

I don't remember the meat I had, it was probably mutton. But story goes - it was my second time in the area, I got off at the wrong metro station gate, saw "Qureshi" written and accidentally had kebabs from one of their branches. Decent ig
41. Pehelwaan Hotel

Someone recommended its Changezi to us. We ventured there to discover that they don't sell it. We had their Paya, which we didn't fancy. Skippable.
43. Aap ki Khatir, SDA Market

This should have been above ffs. These are the second-best Mutton Kakori Kebabs I've had in the city. Tastes very close to Al Kauser, maybe a bit light on the aroma and slightly simpler spice blend.

Note - They only take cash.
44. Inexpensive Strawberry Chaat and Dragonfruit Chaat from near Jama Masjid. Not "Mughlai" food, but worth having if in the area.
45. Unnamed Vendor opp. Ameer Sweet House, Chitli Qabar

He was serving a bunch of fried items on his stall. We tried the Keema Goli. It is a solid 9.5/10. Simple, meaty and chaat-masaaledaar.
(Not Mughlai, but Afghani)

46. Kabul Dubai, Hauz Rani

I prefer this place's Uzbeki Mutton Pulao to the one I've had in Lajpat Nagar, maybe because of the heavier flavour and more % of raisins. Very underrated

47. (Now-Defunct Shawarma shop, Hauz Rani)

Don't remember much lmao
48. Kabul Delhi, Lajpat Nagar

I'm not much of a fan of the Afghani flavour profile. It is too bland for my tongue. And I certainly did not enjoy the masalas of the Chicken Tikka. But the Uzbeki Mutton Pulao may be of interest to people who like lighter spices.
(Not Mughlai, but Kashmiri)

49. Zum Zum, Zakir Nagar

I had Kashmiri food for the first time from this place. Sampled their Goshtaba, and according to a friend who has had Kashmiri food multiple times in the past, it was worth trying. I enjoyed it too.
Note that Mughlai desserts are covered in a later section.

Before we move on to the next section (Chaats & Assortments from Chandni Chowk), just plugging in my blog again. Do subscribe if ypu've enjoyed the thread so far :)

spicydabeli.substack.com
I've messed up the numberings, so starting from

53. Bishan Swaroop, Chandni Chowk

A small stall that may go unnoticed, just outside the Bank of India branch that is an icon in the area.

Their Aloo Chaat has a crispy texture and spice mix, complimented by a bit of lemon. Wah!
54. Unnamed Vendor outside Indraprastha College for Women

Have their Aloo Chaat for sure. Its only slightly inferior to the one featured above. Their Bun Tikki is popular too, and prolly one of the better bread-based items in Dilli, but the Amdavadi in me wasn't satisfied xD
55. Nataraj Dahi Bhalla

Have their Dahi Bhallas. Simple. Sweet. Soft. Smooth. It is worth the hype it gets.
56. Ashok Chaat Corner, Hauz Qazi Chowk

Pictured are their Papdi Chaat, Aloo Chaat and Kanji Bada. The last one is a must-have. I must confess that I'm not a fan of Kanji Bada, but I've had theirs multiple times. Skip the Aloo Chaat for the Papdi, which better suits the chutneys
57. Dahi ke Sholey, Pandit Ramcharan Sharma, INA

I don't know if this can be described as a chaat. Probably not. But this is a crunchy fritter filled with a soft stuffing of Dahi and vegetables. Top-3 Veg Items I've had in the city for sure. Maybe even the best.
58. Balaji Chaat Corner, Chandni Chowk

This place is famous for its Golgappa Chaat. Which is always out of stock when I reach. So I've had their Papdi Chaat instead! The best Chaat in Dilli imho. The chutneys burst in ypur mouth like none other. Really wanna try their Golgappas.
59. Pandit Vedprakash Lemon Vale, Chandni Chowk

I hate Dilli Soda. Banta is overrated. So is the Nimbu Lemon (what's the difference vaise). It neither has the fizz nor the taste that a Nimbu Jaljeera Soda in Amdavad gives me.

But, I liked this spot. A lot. Which says something
60. Unnamed Vendor selling Nankhatai, Chandni Chowk

Do try these on ypur expedition to CC. Very soft. Very dough-ey. Love them.
61. Unnamed Vendor Selling "Fafda", Chandni Chowk

"wElL, tEchNicaLlY, tHiS iS pApDi"

The beauty of food travelling is the forms it takes across cities. If ypu sold Papdi sprinkled with green mirch and onion in Guj, ypu'd be bankrupt. Here in Dilli? Avg Thursday.

*d13s inside*
62. Kanwarji Bhagirath Mal, Chandni Chowk

I've had their Dal Biji many times. It's a mix made of Besan Sev, Muskmelon Seeds and Brown Lentil. Tends to be significantly spicier than other mixtures. I LOVE IT FOR THAT!
Next Up - Punjabi Food. Probably the least explored of all due to price / proximity / less pref for flavour profile.

63. Rajinder da Dhaba, Safdarjung

Chicken Curry (10/10)
Chicken Satay (Smokey and Lemoney)
Mutton Galawati Kebabs ("Punjabified" masalas. V. Unique. Love it)
64. Moti Mahal, Daryaganj

Do I need to introduce them? They (claim to) have invented Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken and Dal Makhni. I've only had their Butter Chicken. And its just as good as it was in 1947. Smokey, tender meat. Sweet and creamy gravy. Worth the hype it gets
Lets quickly skim over these two

65. Chicken Tikka Roll, Karol Bagh (forgot the shop name. But it was good)
66. Kay's Kitchen, Gujranwala

Bhatti Chicken Tikka, Mutton Lahori Burra, Paneer Tikka (not pictured)

Please skip this place. Not worth a single penny.
67. Sanjay Chur Chur Naan, Moolchand

Have the Aloo-Pyaaz Naan. The Butter Naan is good, but not as impressive. Wonderfully smokey and crispy, served with creamy Dal Makhani and a good chhole mix. Their Lassi is thicker than anything I had in Amritsar the same week
68. New Punjabi Khana, Nehru Place

Worth visiting if ypu're in the area for some shopping and need something that's filling. It's good, nothing elite (tbh I the ceiling of "elite" Rajma is a bit low imo).

I don't like Boondi Raita paired with Rajma though. Standalone its good
Will take some time before the next section - Momos. Ypu might be surprised to know what my best spot for momos is in the city.

Till then, do subscribe

spicydabeli.substack.com
69. The Oriental Deck, Khirki

When ypu think of Momos, ypu certainly don't think of Khirki. But this small village right opposite the malls in Saket has the best momos in Dilli. They're huge. They're juicy. The chutney's spicy. And the meat mixture is flavorful.

Elite Momos man
70. Sikkim Momos, CR Park - 2

The momos aren't that good tbh. But they serve it with SEVEN chutneys (more chutneys than momos?) which is mind-blowing.

Mayo, Schezwan, Tomato, Red Chilli, Green Chilli, Ginger-Garlic, Dhaniya-Phudina
This used to be a stall when I first went in late September, but when I went again in late December, I couldn't see any. Though, I did get 7 chutneys in a "pakka" shop in the same market, just by its location. Maybe they've shifted. Who knows
71. Daksh Chicken Momos, Khirki

I really like their Kurkure Momos. (The green chutney pictured is my own).

Kurkure Momos is momos, but coated in cornflakes and deep fried so it gets crunchy. Work of god. Have the chicken ones.
72. Fancy Fork Eatery, Malviya Nagar

Pork Momos with a chilli and tomato chutney. I quite liked it.
73. Red Chilli Dragon, Khirki

Their Chicken Momos are good, but I find them to be smaller in size as of recent. I love their Chicken Wheat Momos, quite unique, the flavour of wheat shines through. Their Schezwan Noodles (pic), Hakka Noodles and Jhol Momos are super cool too.
74. A stall near Green Park Metro Station serves amazing Mutton / Mushroom Momos. Unique. Uncommon. Though I don't have any photos cause my phone got stolen (or maybe I just didn't locate them in my HDD)

I will QT this tweet once I find the location / pics
75. Game of Momos, Ramesh Nagar

West Dilli is famous for serving fusion momos. I have only had "Punjabified" momos at one place though. And I firmly believe these gravy momos may be hard to beat.

Butter Gravy Momos (C)
" " " " (P)
Cheese Chilli Momos (P)
Tandoori Momos (C)
76. Hunger Strike, Amar Colony

These momos changed my perspective on life. Their Tandoori Chicken Momos are the best Tandoori momos in the city. 100 times more smokier than any Tandoori Momos I've had in West Delhi. Pair it with a Lemon Mint Soda and get transported to heaven.
Let's segue into North-Eastern Cuisines. I really need to explore this part more.

Disclaimer : some food is just too foreign to my taste palate that despite good preparation, I end up disliking it. Hence, less comments. Need to explore it with someone from those states lol
Majnu Ka Tilla!

77. Sausage - Unnamed Vendor
78. Chai from A shop whose name I've forgot
79. Dry Laphing from a stall within MKT
80. Soupy** Laphing from the aunty who sits by the monastery

My running joke of Laphing being a "yassified Khandwi" aside, its probably one of my...
...fav foods in the city. Absolutely love it. Super spicy. Super soft. And they also add Wai Wai to it if ypu ask? Crazy!

**I don't remember if its called Soupy Laphing or not lol

Now, to Humayunpur (next tweet)
81. Freedom Corner, Humayunpur

Butter Garlic Chicken
Chicken Taipo
Lemon Honey Ginger Tea

Tibetan Cuisine. The most similar to my taste palette. So quite liked it. And the Tea was fabulous
82. Bhansaghar, Humayunpur

Jhol Momos
Nepali Thali

Can't remember the meat. Suspect it was Pork
83. The Categorical Eat-Pham, Humayunpur

Pork Thaali

This is a Manipuri eatery. Quite foreign to my taste buds. Though it was prepared well. I could figure that out
Section #6 - Sweet Dishes

84. Khemchand, Paranthe Wali Gali

Daulat Ki Chaat. Was worth the hype. Light and Fluffy. Sweet. Sugary. And the taste of Saffron is what binds it through. Skip the Paranthas in the Galli. Have this "Chaat" which is only available in the Winters
85. Shereen Bhawan, Chitli Qabar

The spicy Habshi Halwa - only available in winters, made of cloves, herbs, milk and with black pepper.

The chewy Gondh Halwa - Made of dry fruits such as pistachios, raisins, cashews and almonds, gum and milk

Best Halwas I've had in my life
86, 87 and 88 are the various branches of "Cool Point" scattered across Old Dilli.

They serve Shahi Tukda - Bread fried in Ghee, served with either Mango and Vanilla Ice Cream or Rabdi.

I prefer the former because of the contrast. Also cause I'm not a big fan of Dilli's Rabdi
89. Old Famous Jalebi Wala, Dariba Kalan

This is an iconic eatery of Chandni Chowk. But I didn't quite like their signature dish. Mostly because I the rustic, thick Rabdi of Dilli isn't what I prefer, and because Rabdi AND Jalebi just becomes too sweet.

Might be up ypur alley!
90. Aam Kulfi Wala, Chandni Chowk

Mango Stuffed Kulfi. I'm yet to have Kuremal's which is the most popular. They take the seed out of the mango, fill it with cream, freeze it into an icecream and then serve it in slices. This isn't too spectacular, but is certainly unique.
91, 92 are Mohobbat ka Sharbat from outside Aslam Chicken (original ig?) and in Urdu Bazaar respectively.

Milk, Watermelon and Rooh-Afza mixed in a refreshing sharbat that one needs after an exhausting day in Old Dilli

They also serve an apple version which isn't that good.
(yes, I'll include both of them as separate stalls. what about it? send all the hate mail ypu want. i'm originally from cricket twitter. we're known for statpadding)
Rabdi Faloodas.

93 - Pehelwaan Ji Corner, Zakir Nagar
94 - Radheshyam Lassi, Chandni Chowk
95 - Shri Balaji Corner, Chandni Chowk

Same thing with Rabdi as mentioned above. The best place to have Rabdi in Dilli is by taking the Rajdhani to Amdavad and stopping at Abu Road
Wenger's, CP

I have had their Rum Pastry and Pineapple Tart. Definitely prefer their sweet dishes to their savory ones. And the taste of the Rum Pastry is pretty unique. Never had it elsewhere
96 - Badam Sheermal from a place in Zakir Nagar (don't remember the name)

It's a naan made using milk in the batter, soaked in ghee, flavoured in saffron. Topped with a variety of toppings (most often dry fruits such as Badam)

Sheermal literally translates to "milk rubbed"
Phirni from Chicken Changezi, Daryaganj. Its nothing too special.
Perfect segue into the next section - Bengali food in Chittaranjan Park

I have had Mishti Doi from multiple spots and Kheer Kadam from a spot I don't remember. In any case, I'm not educated enough to tell them apart

97, 98 are Annapurna Sweet House (M2) and Shondesh (M1)
99. Egg Devil and Mutton Chop from Dadu Cutlet Shop, CR Park Market - 2

Quite popular. Quite good as well. But there are better and cheaper spots in the area
100. Ashirbad Caterers - CR Park Market 3

Market 1 & 2 are the biggest and the popular-est.

But Ashirbad Caterers tucked in the small Market 3 is the best for fried items imo. The freshest, crunchiest and best chutney-est.

And its cheap. Prawn chop is ~30/-, Mutton Chop ~20/-
This may be one of, if not, my most fav spot to eat in the city. Recommend everything. And its not just good. Its elite-tier.

Pictured above : Prawn Chop, Mutton Chop, Fish Chop
Also have had : Fish Fry, Chicken Chop, Veg Chop, Aloo Chop
101. Mutton Mughlai Parantha - Rabi Snack Corner, Market - 1

Crispy parathas with mutton inside. The flavours and seasoning is light, but make up for it with the red chilli sauce and green chilli sauce that its accompanied with
102. I've also had Mutton Egg Mughlai Parantha from a stall next to Raju Chaat Corner. Don't remember the name, didn't take a pic can't find it on Google Maps. But that was good too IIRC, my mental state was terrible during that outing so memory's weak.
103. Raju Chaat Corner, CR Park Market - 1

This place is famous for its phuchka. Now, I like it ngl. Especially in a city where golgappas aren't that good imo. But its also very expensive. 40/- for a plate of tangy and spicy little fritters. Amazing
104. Ghughnee Vala, CR Park - Market 1

This may be my second favorite Bengali dish that I've had yet. Didn't know the combination of Minced mutton with Mattar would taste so good, lol.
Now, on to the South Indian fare. Will just drop pictures and recommendations

105. Karnataka Food Centre, Just outside Moti Bagh Metro Stn.

Ghee Masala Dosa (Best Dosa I've had in Dilli)
Aam Panna (Highly Recommended)
Chow Chow Bhat
Filter Coffee (Highly Recommended)
Mysore Masala Dosa
Panchtara Uttapam (Highly Recommended)

Ofc, I do rec the other items too
106. New Chidambaram's Madras Hotel, Khanna Market

Rava Masala Dosa (Second Best Dosa I've had)
107. Carnatic Cafe, Meherchand Market

Malleshwaram 18th Cross
Benne Khali
Set Dosa

They have a unique fare. I've only had these three. Third best in my list of South Indian spots
108. India Coffee House, CP

Mutton Cutlet
Mutton Dosa
Cheese Toast
Cold Coffee

My take on ICH is quite simple. It has good food. With an old-school ambience that I find charming. But its really overpriced imo.
109. Tamil Nadu Stall, Dilli Haat

I had the filter coffee and Masala Dosa in my early days in Dilli. I remember enjoying both. Didn't click a pic of the Dosa though
110. Pasricha's, INA

Don't have any clicks. Will QT this tweet if I find any. But I remember liking this place's dosas. Don't remember what I had, they were decent.

The Masala Colddrink of this outlet is what I love even more. Not that fizzy, but really spicy
111. Saravana Bhavan, CP

The local dosawala in Amdavad prepares better dosas than this with his eyes closed. Don't go here at all
Before we move into the final segment - "Western" food, I'll add 2 spots really quickly
112. Jhakkas Pav Bhaji, Lajpat Nagar

As someone who has grown up in Amdavad eating Pav Bhaji and other items that travelled here from Bombay, I can say that this is what I imagine when I think of a Dilli-waala making Pav Bhaji. Definitely not Jhakkas. Definitely not Pav Bhaji.
113. Nagaland Stall - Dilli Haat

I just had the Pork Momos when I first came to Dilli. I liked them. Idk how I'd find it now. No photos

My general advice for all explorers still stands - Dilli Haat fucking sucks. No human with a brain should step foot in that place
Segment #9 - ""Western"" Stuff

114. Al Nihaar, Tikona Park

Al Nihaar's Buff Cheeseburgers are a work of art. Cheaper than any cafe in CP or GK. And I'd say better too.

Left : Cheeseburger
Right : Triple Cheeseburger

What do I recommend? The latter. Obviously
115. Aunty ke Pasta, Karol Bagh

This is very popular on IG Reels. Let it stay that way. It doesn't deserve to be consoomed. I'll make pasta for y'all instead lol
116. Novelty Dairy and Stores, Jangpura

Very apt that this is the last one. I miss sandwiches so much. These are amazing. I've had the Chicken Salami and Tuna in white bread. The simplicity of the bread, meat and green chutney is where it shines.
The muffins / baked items and Cold Coffee are skippable.
Quick addition.

117. Diamond Bakery, Chitli Qabr

Would also recommend their Rusk. Look at a video of it being prepared in a traditional oven.
Missed two spots from the South Indian section.

118. Kerala Hotel, INA

Buff Curry, Buff Roast, Coffee

119. Annie's Kerala Kitchen, New Friend's Colony

Pothu Coconut Curry

I love both of them. Really hard to choose but I'll go with Annie's Coconut Curry. Have w Parotta
END OF THREAD

Subscribe to spicydabeli.substack.com if ypu haven't already. I have borrowed these recommendations from Twitter, YpuTube, a variety of food blogs, friends and elsewhere. Too many to thank. Don't want to miss anyone. Will refrain from doing so
I wasn't alone for most of these travels. Would be impossible to cover this city at this level of depth if I were alone lol. Thanks to all my friends who accompanied me. Think @baelall deserves special thanks. KKR fan hai. Let him have his moment.
Remember - 2023 is Bavuma's Year.

End of Thread

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More from @spicydabeli

Jan 23
Here’s a quick thread of things to do / eat in Ahmedabad for those who are here over the weekend for Coldplay, from someone who grew up in the city 🧵🏰🍛 Sidi Saiyyed Ni Jali  Credits:  By Snehrashmi - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=138126313
Mutton Bhuna at New Irani Restaurant
Assorted Kathiyawadi Dishes at Shivshakti Kathiyawadi, Vastrapur
I also write weekly long-form reviews on the food from Delhi, Ahmedabad and beyond. If reading deep-dives on food history is your thing, subscribe at the link below 👇

spicydabeli.com
Head over to the Old City and walk through the gullies of the 600 -year walled settlement

Visit

Jama Masjid
Sidi Saiyyed Ni Jali
Hutheesing Jain Temple
Teen Darwaja
Jhulta Minara
Rani no Hajiro
Conflictorium (museum documenting the violent past of the city and state) By Bernard Gagnon - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31155604
Image
By Prof Ranga Sai - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=137163623
Display of Babasaheb Ambedkar's portrait in an exhibit at Conflictorium
Read 21 tweets
Oct 5, 2024
Here's a thread 🧵 of all the food that I had on my 5-day visit to Delhi. A desperate attempt to revisit my old favourites after 322 days of exile - Image
Day 1: After visiting my favouritest spot in the whole city right after getting off my train, went to Chidambarams New Madras Hotel for breakfast, one of the best South Indian restaurants in Delhi in my opinion. Their filter coffee is to die for and their Mysore Masala was Image
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quite good, though I prefer their Rava Masala Dosa (which is smth I've had in the past)

Took a pit stop in INA's Pasricha Dosa Junction, not for the dosas but to have their refreshing Masala Cold Drink - spicy, fizzy and thumbsup-y, a perfect refresher on a hot Monday afternoon Image
Read 30 tweets
Feb 1, 2024
Embarked on an ambitious non-vegetarian food walk in Old Ahmedabad tonight with @SuhasCadambi, here's a 🧵 of everything we had
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1. Mutton Samosa from Bera Samosa House

Sold by the kilo, this is one of the most popular shops in the city. The mutton was extremely soft, which contrasted extremely well with the thin and crunchy outer layer of the samosa, which resembles its vegetarian cousin, Navtad Samosas.
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2. Chicken Dana at Bera Samosa House

Small, bite-sized pieces of fried chicken with a light coating of a very spicy masala, allowing the flavours of the juicy chicken to shine Image
Read 9 tweets
Oct 13, 2023
I spent the bulk of my day exploring the variety of chaats that Hazratganj has to offer.

Here's a thread of all that I ate on my Day 1 of exploring Lucknow's food -

1. Started the day with Royal Cafe's gigantic Basket Chaat. This was insane, loved the variety of textures and
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flavours on offer. A mix of dahi, pomegranate seeds, sev, coriander, aloo, bhalla, chhole and more. And it all blends well together

2. Kesariya Malai Gilori at Ram Asrey - Tried this because its something I've never seen before in my life, and I liked it. Sweet and saffrony

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3. Poori - Sabzi at Bajpayee Kachori Bhandar. Wanted to try the Khasta Kachori but they got over. The puris were flaky and the sabzi was tasty, very well cooked, spicy and filling

Image

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Read 14 tweets
May 25, 2023
Comprehensive 🧵 on the incompetence of the @BCCI, @IPL, @Paytm, @paytminsider and Gujarat Police that lead to multiple stampedes happening today at the Narendra Modi Stadium, how I almost fainted amongst a raging crowd and had to leave without collecting my tickets.
Firstly, the venue. GT set up many centres across the city where one could print their tickets at their convenience. My dad went to a centre 2 minutes away from my sister's school, and had to stand in a queue of just 2 people before printing the ticket.
For the playoffs, which are games with high attendance, exceeding over 2L, mind you, they've opened only one centre, which is the Modi Stadium itself. How did they expect to manage such a crowd in one or two days? I don't think they did. Reflected in the way they handled it
Read 26 tweets
Feb 24, 2023
Day in the life of an Indian Cricket Fan

- Be me, a passionate fan of the Glorious stadium of Chepauk!
- Live in a dustbowl
- Wake up at 4 am to the 800 runs of Harry Brook on my CricInfo widget
- Eat deep fried vadapav and rama ke chhole bhatuure for breakfast
- See my neighbour being executed by the BCCI for making a mild joke about our glorious leader Jay Shah
- Try to go to watch the match but get stuck searching where tickets are sold for the 847th time
- Finally get my tickets the next day
- Start my 15 hour journey to reach Jamtha stadium from Nagpur
- Rajasthani neighbour tries to watch the match but the cage restricts his visibility
- Do this for 7 years
- Save up enough to buy a Dharamshala outfield in hopes of getting clean air
Read 5 tweets

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