Delhi is often called “Dilwalon ki Dilli" and is not only famous for its ancient monuments and history but also for its delicious food that wins your heart with every bite. From walking in the busy streets of Old Delhi to stopping in a food stall for delicious and crispy Pani Puri to enjoying the Butter chicken with family in a modern Cafe in New Delhi, you will always find flavors that touch your heart. One minute you’re biting into hot, buttery parathas, and the next, you’re digging into a bowl of rich butter chicken with family in a modern cafe.
What makes Delhi food so special is the mix of flavors it carries, as the royal taste of the Mughal kitchens blends beautifully with other flavors from every corner of India. Every snack, every meal here feels like it has a story to tell. And honestly, if you’re in Delhi, skipping the food is like skipping half the city itself. So, hungry yet? Let’s explore the most “Delhicious” dishes you need to try in 2025.
Famous Delhi Food to Try Once
Now we will not torture your taste buds, so without any delay, let's explore the best food in Delhi:
1 . Golgappa (Pani - Puri)
Golgappa is the classical Indian fast food, famous as the Puchka in Kolkata, Pani Puri in Mumbai, and Gol Gappa in Delhi. These are small, round, and crispy puris that look like tiny balloons. They are carefully cracked open and stuffed with mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, sweet-and-sour chutney, and most importantly, the spicy, tangy water that makes everyone’s mouth water. If you want to taste the true flavor of Delhi, just follow the crowd, find a Gol Gappa stall, and get ready for the tastiest bite of your life!
Best places in Delhi for Golgappa: You can try the Golgappe at Kamla Nagar market, Kinari Bazaar, and Chandni Chowk.
2. Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki comes in the list of Delhi's special foods. These crispy, golden brown fried mashed potatoes are stuffed with seasoned spices. Its crispy exterior and spicy interior are the best thing to please your taste buds and this dish is often enjoyed with the Chaat.
Best places in Delhi for Aloo Tikki: You can try the Aloo Tikki at Chandni Chowk.
3. Kathi Rolls
Kathi Rolls are one of the most loved and flavourful Delhi famous food items that you can spot at almost every street corner. These tasty rolls are made by wrapping juicy spiced chicken, paneer, or fresh vegetables and is filled with tangy chutney, aromatic onions and chaat masala all inside a soft paratha or thin roomali roti.
Whether you eat them as a quick snack while roaming the streets or as a full meal, Kathi Rolls always satisfy your hunger and are the perfect example of the creativity and taste of Delhi food.
Best places in Delhi for Kathi Rolls: You can try the Kathi Rolls at Connaught place, Jangpura or Saket.
4. Samosa
Samosa is the traditional food of Delhi as well as of India. These crispy fried triangles of mashed potatoes, spices and peas are the perfect snacks of Indians, often enjoyed with the tangy or sweet chutney, chai or Chhole. But in Delhi you will be surprised to see the different varieties of Samosa, such as; Keema Samosa, Kachori Samosa, Paneer Samosa and Japani Samosa. These are larger and more crispier than the other places of India.
Best places in Delhi for Samosas: You can try the Samosas at Moti Nagar and Gole Market.
5. Kulfi
Kulfi is a cold, creamy, and sweet dessert used especially after a meal in the hot summers. It is the Desi version of ice cream, but it is thicker, creamier, and richer in taste. There are many varieties of Kulfi in Delhi, such as Malai, Mango, Rose, Elaichi or Cardamom, Kesar or Saffron and Pista, and you will find the real taste of Kulfi from the small shops and food stalls along with the tasty nuts, dry fruits or Rabri as a toppings to make it even more special. So if you are searching for the best food in Delhi then Kulfi should be top of your list!
Best places in Delhi for Kulfi: You can try the Kulfi at Kamla Nagar.
6. Chaat
Chaat is the best food in Delhi and the king of Indian street food! These crispy, tangy, spicy snacks are like flavor explosions that have been making people smile for over 100 years, from tiny Gol Gappe that burst in your mouth to Papdi chaat and golden aloo tikkis topped with creamy yogurt. Being India's chaat capital, the place offers you incredible flavors of chaat that will make you want to lick your plate clean!
Best places in Delhi for Chaat: You can try the Chaat at Chandni Chowk.
7. Daulat Ki Chaat
If you ever walk through Old Delhi, then you will find a magical, rare, and delicate dessert called Daulat ki Chaat. This is the winter special dessert and not like a Chaat at all. Often made by gently whisking milk & cream until they form a soft and airy foam, then saffron, dry fruits, and sugar are used as toppings.
It's light and cloud-like texture makes it so special to watch and try. Apart from Delhi, it is also found in Lucknow as Nimish and Kanpur as Malai Makhan, but Daulat ki Chaat of Old Delhi is the best among all. So if you are searching for the best food in Old Delhi, then Daulat ki Chaat should be top of your list!
Best places in Delhi for Daulat Ki Chaat: You can try the Daulat Ki Chaat at Chandni Chowk.
8. Bhel Puri
Bhel Puri is the simplest Delhi food. It is not as spicy as the above-mentioned Delhi famous food but it can be a very nutritious and delicious snack option. Bhel Puri is a mixture of many ingredients such as onions, cucumber, coriander leaves, tomatoes, fruits, puffed rice, Chat Masala, and Sev. All these ingredients are stirred well with the tamarind chutney before serving.
Best places in Delhi for Bhel Puri: You can try the Bhel Puri at Chandni chowk.
9. Momos
Mainly originating from Tibet, Momos are the go-to snack for Delhi people. From spicy chicken to tasty vegetables, these steamed or fried treasures come with red chutney and mayonnaise that makes your taste buds dance. Whether you are going to a cafe in Delhi or exploring Chandni Chowk, you will find momos at every place. This is a must try dish as Delhites are also crazy about these tiny dumplings.
Best places in Delhi for Momos: You can try the Momos at Chandni Chowk and Connaught.
10. Kebabs
Imagine taking a bite of juicy, smoky Kebab that melts in your mouth like butter. Sounds yummy right! Kebab is the Delhi famous food, mainly originated from the Mughal Empire. It is made from marinated meat, cooked on the Tandoor. Old Delhi streets are filled with the amazing smell of Kebabs. From the famous Karim’s in Old Delhi to tiny roadside stalls, every corner of Delhi serves Kebabs that taste like heaven. Trust me, these are not just food; they are pure magic on a stick.
Best places in Delhi for Kebabs: You can try the Kebabs at Karol Bagh.
11. Chhole Bhature
When you talk about Delhi's famous food, the first name that comes to mind is Chhole Bhature. This is not just food, it is the pure emotion and happiness of Delhites. This spicy and tangy chickpea curry, called Chhole, is cooked with lots of aromatic spices and eaten with the fluffy, crunchy, and golden Bhature. Additionally, adding crunchy Onions, spicy pickles, and tangy chutney makes it more special and more bold.
So whenever you are in Delhi, don't miss out on this spicy and gravy-rich treat because it is the must-try Delhi famous food that everyone talks about.
Best places in Delhi for Chhole Bhature: You can try the Chhole Bhature at Karol Bagh, Paharganj, Kamla Nagar, and Lajpat Nagar.
12. Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani, comes in the list of the top 50 famous foods of the World. It originated in 1950 from Moti Mahal, Daryaganj. Butter chicken is not only a dish, it represents the true Delhi food specialty. This spicy recipe is made from the tender chicken pieces dipped in the thick, creamy, and buttery tomato gravy. Often enjoyed with rice or Nan, it is a perfect delight for date night, family dinner, or a business dinner.
Best places in Delhi for Butter Chicken: You can try the Butter Chicken at Daryaganj.
13. Jalebi
Jalebi is the ancient sweet snack of India, often enjoyed during festivals. This orange-colored coloured spiral shaped crispy and crunchy snack is made from wheat flour that is dipped in sugar syrup and sometimes flavored with cardamom or saffron. You can try this amazing recipe with the curd or Masala Chai.
Best places in Delhi for Jalebi: You can try the Jalebi at Chandni Chowk.
14. Nihari
Nihari is one of Delhi's most iconic dishes that every foodie should try. This hearty, slow-cooked stew is made with tender pieces of meat and gently simmered overnight with aromatic spices. Often enjoyed with Naan or Khameeri Roti, it is royal Delhi food .
Best places in Delhi for Nihari: You can try the Nihari at Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Jamiya Nagar, Jafrabad and Ghazipur
15. Dahi Bhalle
Dahi Bhalle is one of the most loved street foods in Delhi. This tasty snack is made with soft lentil balls dipped in cool curd, then topped with sweet tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and a mix of masalas like cumin and chaat masala. Its sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors together make it a perfect treat, especially enjoyed during festivals or family gatherings. Known as a true gem of Delhi food culture, Dahi Bhalle gives a mouth-watering mix of taste and texture that everyone enjoys.
Best places in Delhi for Dahi Puri: You can try the Dahi Puri at Chandni Chowk.
16. Parantha
Parathas, especially stuffed ones, are such a big part of Delhi food culture that there’s even a famous street just for them such as Paranthe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk. This narrow lane is packed with shops that serve hot, crispy parathas with different fillings. The charm of these parathas lies in their variety. You can get them stuffed with potatoes, paneer, dal, or other tasty fillings, and they’re shallow-fried till golden and crisp.
Best places in Delhi for Parantha: You can try the Parantha at Chandni Chowk.
17. Rabri Falooda
Rabri Falooda is one of the most loved desserts in Delhi, known for its rich taste and cooling flavors. This yummy sweet is made with creamy rabri, soft vermicelli, rose syrup, and soaked basil seeds. On top of it, crunchy nuts are added, which make every bite special.
The mix of creamy, sweet, and crunchy layers gives a perfect balance of taste and texture. That’s why people in Delhi enjoy it a lot, especially in summer. Whether you have it after a meal or just as a cool treat, Rabri Falooda is a must-try dessert for anyone who wants to enjoy the true flavour of Delhi.
Best places in Delhi for Rabri Falooda: You can try the Rabri Falooda at Chandni Chowk.
18. Biryani
Biryani is one of the most loved dishes in Delhi, known for its rich taste and aroma. This special rice dish is made by cooking long basmati rice with tender chicken or mutton and mixing it with saffron, herbs, and spices. Every bite is full of flavour and fragrance.
Delhi style biryani comes from a mix of Mughlai and local cooking traditions, which makes it very unique and special. Whether you eat it at a fancy restaurant or a small local shop, biryani is always a must-try food for anyone visiting Delhi.
Best places in Delhi for Biryani: You can try the Biryani at Karol Bagh and Andhra Bhawan.
19. Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal is one of the most loved foods of Delhi. This homely dish brings together soft red kidney beans cooked in a tasty, spicy tomato curry and is served with hot steamed rice. The mix of rajma’s rich flavors and the lightness of rice makes it a perfect comfort food. People in Delhi enjoy it at home with family or in small local eateries. If you really want to taste the true flavour of Delhi’s home-style cooking, Rajma Chawal is a must-try dish.
Best places in Delhi for Rajma Chawal: You can try the Rajma Chawal at Connaught Place, Paharganj and Chandni Chowk.
Conclusion
From the first burst of tangy Pani Puri water to the last spoon of creamy Kulfi, Delhi food is not just about eating; it's about experiencing the century-old legacy in every single bite. Delhi food is the perfect blend of Royal Mughal Heritage with street-smart flavors. Whether you are hunting for the perfect Delhi famous food Instagram shots at Chandni Chowk or exploring the hidden gems in Karol Bagh, every corner of Delhi tells a Delhicious story.
The best food in Delhi is not just found in fancy restaurants, it's sizzling on roadside carts, century-old family shops. The true Delhi food specialty lies in its incredible diversity, where you can start your morning with crispy Parantha, snack on Momos for lunch, and Butter Chicken for dinner with a spoonful bite of Rabri Falooda. So Delhi is waiting to feed your soul and trust us - Your taste buds will thank you, after tasting Delhi food!
