Most of the heritage sites in Delhi are best observed in the morning light. So is the case with Old Delhi with its early newspaper vendors, milk suppliers, sun-kissed domes of Jama Masjid, lightly lit arcade of Chandni Chowk, luminous Sunehri Masjid and beads of other spectacles. As such, it is best not to miss out on the first meal of the day for a day of extensive exploration. The city of Shahjahanabad, now Old Delhi, offers a plethora of choices for breakfast to choose from. Whether it's the aromatic and flavourful parathas stuffed with potatoes, cauliflower, or paneer, served with tangy pickles and cooling yoghurt at Paranthe Wali Gali, or the piping hot jalebis dripping with syrup at iconic street corners, there's something to tantalise the most diverse of palates.
Discover the top places for breakfast in Old Delhi, some of which are equally a part of the cultural and historical fabric of the city.
Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk has long stood as a shopping and trade arcade. It was designed by Emperor Shah Jahan’s daughter, Jahanara Begum. Among the many lanes of the walkway, one is the Parathe Wali Gali, or the alley of parathas (an Indian flatbread). While previously this lane was known only for its silverware shops, the Paratha shops moved in starting in the 1870s, though many saree and jewellery shops remain. Out of the many shops that existed in the late 1960s, only a few remain. A popular and most sought-after shop is the Pt. Kanhaiyalal & Durga Prasad Dixit Paranthe Wale. The place offers a rich array of parathas including the Dry Fruit Paratha, Papad Paratha, Rabri Paratha, Banana Paratha, Vegetable Paratha and much more. The place holds much heritage value and is one not to be missed.
Address: Shop No 36, Paranthe Wali Gali, Katra Lehswan, Chandni Chowk
Timings: 9 am to 11 pm
Cost: INR 400 for two
Nehari is a dish that is ideally simmered through the night and consumed as breakfast during winter. The famous nehari tradition of Kallu Mian in Old Delhi lives on at Kallu Nihari, discreetly located behind Delite Cinema on Asaf Ali Road. It has gained widespread recognition over the past two decades, with regulars raving about its exceptional nihari dish. Slowly cooked to perfection for hours, the succulent meat is immersed in a rich gravy infused with delightful spices, making Kallu Mian's nihari a culinary journey through the winding streets of Purani Dilli. Served with freshly baked Khamiri Roti straight from the oven, this combination creates a symphony of flavours that entice the senses.
Address: 180, Chhatta Lal Mian, Jama Masjid, Behind Delite Cinema, Daryaganj, Chatta Lal Miya, Chandni Mahal
Timings: 6 am to 10 pm
Cost: INR 300 for two
If you identify as a chai enthusiast, you simply cannot miss out on Haji Tea Point, a highly esteemed tea house that takes the art of tea drinking to a whole new level. From early morning till late at night, this place is bustling with chai aficionados who come together for the love of this aromatic brew. Make sure you try their famous Special Tea, a unique blend that will set the perfect tone for your day. And when you've had your fill of tea, indulge in the Shahi Tukda with Rabri, a dessert that perfectly showcases this establishment's culinary prowess.
Address: Shop. 924, opp. Al-Jawahar Restaurant, Bazar Matia Mahal, Jama Masjid, Delhi, 110006
Timings: 4 am to 1 am
Cost: INR 300 for two
Lotan Ke Chole Kulche is a small food stall located in the streets of Chawri Bazar. It is a shining star among Delhi's culinary treasures, offering a remarkable interpretation of the classic Chole Kulche. For years, this stall has been an essential part of Old Delhi's street food culture, captivating both seasoned spice lovers and adventurous food enthusiasts alike. Lotan's secret spice blend transforms the chickpeas into an unforgettable delight that perfectly complements the soft oven-baked kulchas. A visit to Lotan Ke Chole Kulche is an essential experience for anyone exploring the city's street food scene. It promises a lasting impression and a delightful journey through the heart of Delhi's culinary culture, embodying the essence of Old Delhi.
Address: 2368, Chatta Shahji Road, Manohar Market, Nai Wala, Chawri Bazaar, Old Delhi, 110006
Timings: 7 am to 3 pm
Cost: INR 200 for two
Established in 1971, JB Kachori Wala, also known as Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, situated in Chandni Chowk, has garnered fame for its spicy kachoris, pioneering the concept of khasta kachori in Delhi. Over more than three decades, this iconic eatery has maintained its popularity, serving thousands of food lovers with consistency. Their signature dish, "Urad dal ki kachori" paired with Aloo ki Sabzi and kachalu ki chatni, boasts a mysterious flavour distinguishing them from other kachori vendors in Chandni Chowk and beyond. With a team of skilled chefs trained in the art of preparing delicious kachoris using unique spices, JB Kachori Wala has developed its range of spices, ensuring uniformity and excellent taste in its products. Various food specialists and esteemed newspapers have recognised the eatery as a leading contender in its game as its fame only continues to grow.
Address: 1104, Gali Bhojpura Rd, Kinari Bazar, Maliwara, Katra Shah N Shah, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, 110006
Timings: 8:30 am to 8 pm
Cost: INR 200 for two
Experience the exquisite cuisine of Shyam Sweets, located in the heart of Delhi's historic Chandni Chowk. With over 100 years of culinary excellence, Shyam Sweets offers a range of delicious, savoury and sweet treats. Each bite is a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition, from their famous bedmi puri dish to their irresistible jalebis and gulab jamuns. The cosy and rustic ambience takes you back in time, making a visit to Shyam Sweets a must for anyone seeking a taste of India's culinary heritage.
Address: 112, Manohar Market, Chawri Bazar, Chandni Chowk, Delhi, 110006
Timings: 8 am to 9:30 pm
Cost: INR 300 for two
