Delhi, the heart of India, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, for foodies like me , its delectable street food. The bustling streets of Delhi offer a sensory overload of flavors, aromas, and textures that are simply irresistible. From crispy samosas to flavorful chole bhature and succulent kebabs, Delhi’s street food scene is a gastronomic paradise that leaves no palate unsatisfied.
But of course, while the food is inviting, the though of falling sick robs tourists of this delectable experience. This is why I have here a blog on the best street food shops in Delhi and tips on how to avoid, “Delhi Belly,” a name Delhi infamously acquired due to the high incidence of food poisoning tourists experience in Delhi.
Street Foods to Try in Delhi
When in Delhi, do try these amazing street foods of Delhi:
Ram Laddoo: Delightful deep-fried lentil fritters, crispy on the outside and soft inside, served with tangy tamarind chutney.
Kulfi: Creamy and rich Indian ice cream, often flavored with saffron, cardamom, or pistachio, a perfect dessert to beat the Delhi heat.
Chaat: A spicy and tangy medley of crispy fried dough, potatoes, and chickpeas, adorned with various chutneys, yogurt, and spices.
Kebab: Skewered and succulently grilled marinated meat or vegetables, a favorite savory treat often found in Delhi’s markets.
Chole Bhature: A North Indian classic consisting of fluffy fried bread (bhature) paired with spicy chickpea curry (chole).
Shahi Tukda: A decadent dessert made with fried bread soaked in sweet, fragrant saffron-infused milk, garnished with nuts.
Muhabbat Sharbat: A refreshing concoction of rose syrup and basil seeds, a popular summer drink to beat the Delhi heat.
Jalebi: Deep-fried, spiral-shaped sweets soaked in sugary syrup, providing a crispy and syrupy delight.
Butter Tea: A warm and comforting beverage with a distinct taste, featuring strong tea infused with generous amounts of butter and salt.
Best Street Food Shops in Delhi
Here is a list of the best street food shops in Delhi. I have been to most of them, and for the rest, I have gathered reviews from fellow tourists and of course online review.
Aslam Chicken
Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid
Located near the iconic Jama Masjid, Aslam Chicken is a gastronomic treasure for lovers of Mughlai and biryani dishes. The star attraction here is undoubtedly the sumptuous butter chicken, a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that never fails to impress. Aslam Chicken’s menu is a testament to the opulent Mughlai cuisine that Delhi is famous for, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s culinary wonders.
Must Try Dishes
Butter Chicken
Rumali Roti
Chicken Tikka
Qureshi Kabab Corner
Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid
If you’re in the vicinity of Jama Masjid and in search of legendary kebabs, rolls, and biryanis, look no further than Qureshi Kabab Corner. This humble, standing-room-only eatery is a hidden gem, offering flavors that pack a punch. The succulent kebabs and hearty biryanis at Qureshi are truly a celebration of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage.
Must Try Dishes
Mutton Seekh Kebab
Chicken Kebab
Haji Tea Point
Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid
Located near the iconic Jama Masjid, Haji Tea Point is a shahi tukda dessert zone that promises a royal treat for your taste buds. The rich and luscious shahi tukda, along with the creamy rabdi, is an indulgence that exemplifies the Mughlai culinary tradition. The vibrant surroundings of Jama Masjid add to the overall experience, making it an essential destination for dessert lovers.
Must Try Dishes
Shahi Tukda
Rabdi
Special Tea
Dilli Haat
Nearest Metro Station: Dilli Haat INA
Dilli Haat, situated in the heart of the city, is a unique destination where you can explore the diversity of Indian culture and cuisine. This open-air market showcases handicrafts, handlooms, and authentic regional foods from across the country. It’s the ideal place to experience the vibrant tapestry of India’s culinary traditions, from spicy South Indian dosas to savory Punjabi chole bhature.
Must Try Dishes
Try just about anything!
Sita Ram Diwan Chand
Nearest Metro Station: RK Ashram Marg (near New Delhi Railway Station)
When it comes to chole bhature, few places can match the legacy of Sita Ram Diwan Chand. Operating in a traditional Punjabi, this eatery has perfected the art of serving crispy bhature paired with flavorful chole. The standing-only setup adds to the charm of the experience, and the delicious food keeps patrons coming back for more.
Must Try Dishes
Chole Bhature
Khan Chacha
Nearest Metro Station: Rajiv Chowk Metro Station
Since 1972, Khan Chacha has been a name synonymous with authentic Mughlai cuisine and genuine North Indian flavors. Located in Connaught Place, it has earned a reputation for serving the best rolls and kebabs in Delhi. While Khan Chacha’s prices might be slightly higher compared to other street food shops, the quality and taste justify every penny spent. It’s an essential stop for those craving the essence of North Indian culinary excellence.
Must Try Dishes
Chicken Malai Tikka Roll
Tikka Spicy Roll
Mutton Kebab
Dolma Aunty Momos
Nearest Metro Station: Lajpat Nagar
Nestled in the bustling Central Market of Lajpat Nagar, Dolma Aunty Momo’s is an iconic street-side stall where you can relish a wide variety of dim-sums. Dolma, the maestro behind the counter, creates these mouthwatering momos that transport your taste buds to the North Eastern and Tibetan regions. Whether you prefer them steamed or fried, stuffed with vegetables or meat, this humble eatery is a mecca for momo lovers.
Must Try Dishes
Non-Veg Chinese Platter
Tandoori Momos
Afghani Momos
Natraj Dahi Bhalla
Nearest Metro Station: Chandini Chowk
Natraj Dahi Bhalla, a no-frills outlet that has been serving delectable lentil dahi bhalla balls and aloo tikki since 1940, is a culinary landmark near Chandni Chowk. The simplicity of the menu is part of its charm, as it allows the quality of the food to shine. The cool dahi bhallas and spicy aloo tikkis are an unforgettable blend of flavors, making this place a must-visit for those in search of authentic North Indian street food.
Must Try Dishes
Dahi Bhalle
Aloo Tikki Chaat
Old Famous Jalebi Wala
Nearest Metro Station: Lal Qila
For those with a sweet tooth, Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk is an unmissable stop. This long-established, open-fronted sweet kiosk is renowned for its traditional jalebis, rabdi, and samosas. The crispy, golden jalebis soaked in sugar syrup, paired with creamy rabdi, create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Must Try Dishes
Jalebi
Rabdi
Samosa
Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala
Nearest Metro Station: Chandini Chowk
Since 1961, Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala has been winning hearts with its delectable kachoris, earning it the well-deserved title of the best kachori in Delhi NCR. These deep-fried, crispy snacks, typically stuffed with spicy lentil or potato fillings, are a hot favorite among locals and visitors alike. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite is a true gastronomic delight.
Must Try Dishes
Kachori Sabzi
Khandani Pakode Wala
Nearest Metro Station: Bikaji Cama Place
Sarojini Nagar, known for its bustling market, is also home to Khandani Pakode Wala, an iconic street food stall that has been serving spicy North Indian snack staples for years. Their pakoras (fritters) are legendary, with a variety of options, including classics like aloo pakoda, paneer pakoda, and mirchi pakoda. The crispy, golden treats are a testament to the timeless appeal of street food in Delhi.
Must Try Dishes
Different types of pakodas
Kulcha King
Nearest Metro Station: Bikaji Cama Place
Delving into the heart of Sarojini Market, you’ll discover Kulcha King, a beloved establishment serving mixed, masala, and paneer Amritsari kulchas. These thick, stuffed bread pieces, typically paired with spicy chole (chickpea curry) and tangy chutneys, are an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more. The simple and relaxed ambiance adds to the overall charm of this culinary hotspot.
Must Try Dishes
Amritsari Kulcha
Mix Kulcha Naan
Chawla De Mashoor Special Naan
Nearest Metro Station: RK Ashram Marg
Chawla De Mashoor Special Naan is the place to be for anyone looking to indulge in the unique and delicious chur chur naan. This dish, known for its crispy layers and rich flavors, is a specialty here. Served with various delectable curries, the naan experience at Chawla De Mashoor is a testament to the diverse culinary treasures of Delhi’s street food scene.
Must Try Dishes
Chur Chur Naan
Maharaja Thali
Tips to Avoid “Delhi Belly”
Now comes the most important part, how to relish these awesome dishes without it taking a toll on your health. Here are some tips to avoid getting sick on Delhi’s street food.
Choose Your Food Stall Wisely
Not all street food stalls are created equal. Opt for stalls that are busy and frequented by locals, as a high turnover of customers usually means fresher ingredients and a better hygiene standard. Look for stalls that maintain a clean and organized appearance.
Check for Hygiene
Observe the vendor’s personal hygiene and the cleanliness of their food preparation area. The vendor should be using gloves, tongs, or some form of utensils to handle the food. Avoid places where the vendor uses bare hands to serve or touch the food.
Watch the Cooking Process
Street food that’s cooked to order is generally safer. You can witness the food being prepared, ensuring it’s fresh and cooked thoroughly. Avoid pre-cooked items that may have been sitting out for an extended period.
Go for Piping Hot Food
Hot food items, like kebabs or paranthas, that are cooked at high temperatures are generally safer as they kill harmful bacteria. Ensure your food is served piping hot, and avoid lukewarm or cold servings.
Avoid Raw or Uncooked Foods
Opt for dishes that are fully cooked and avoid raw items like salads or dishes that contain raw ingredients, as they are more prone to contamination. Cut fruit salad is the main culprit in food poisoning among Delhi tourists.
Embrace Vegetarian Options
Vegetarian street food options are often safer than non-vegetarian ones because they have a lower risk of bacterial contamination. Popular vegetarian street foods in Delhi include aloo tikki, chole bhature, and various chaats.
Be Cautious with Water and Juices
Avoid consuming tap water, ice, and juices from street vendors, as these are common sources of waterborne illnesses. Opt for bottled water and sealed beverages.
Carry Hand Sanitizer
Bringing a small bottle of hand sanitizer can be a lifesaver when you don’t have access to clean water and soap. Use it before and after your meal to minimize the risk of contamination.
Know Your Spice Tolerance
Delhi’s street food can be quite spicy. If you’re not used to the heat, let the vendor know and ask for milder versions of your chosen dishes to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.
Listen to Locals
If you’re unsure about which street food stalls to try, ask locals for recommendations. They are a valuable source of information about the best and safest places to eat. If you personally know someone who lived in Delhi as a student, they are your best guide to street food in Delhi.
Conclusion
Delhi is undoubtedly the street food capital of India; however care must be taken to ensure you get to savour them without falling sick on your trip. Check out online reviews, check with locals, and never drink water in jugs in restaurants.
I hope my list of the best street food shops help you satiate your craving without making you sick, and if you have an experience to share, let me know in the comments below.
