Delhi street food diaries: Iconic dishes locals swear by
Samira Vishwas May 03, 2025 01:24 PM

New Delhi: Delhi isn’t just the political capital of India, but also a food lover’s paradise. Serving some of the most iconic dishes at the legendary places, the Delhi food scene is crazy, with each corner of the city offering a variety of flavours for all age groups to try and enjoy the most authentic and delicious flavours. From the hot parathas to cool and refreshing faloodas, Delhi has everything for all seasons.

The vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk, the aromatic stalls of Karol Bagh, and the bustling food corners of Connaught Place serve as living proof of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage. Street food in Delhi is just more than a meal, it is an emotion for the people living here, and the legendary places serving for many years are famous for the quality, quantity and richness of food they serve.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, indulging in these street-side delicacies is a must-do activity.

Street food from Delhi

This guide to the best street food items and where to try them is a must-save for all who love to explore food and dive into the rich culinary culture.

1. Chole bhature

Spicy chickpeas paired with deep-fried, fluffy bhature is the ultimate indulgence for Delhiites. This Punjabi-origin dish is served with onions, green chutney, and sometimes a tangy achar.

Must try in Delhi: Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Paharganj, Bille Di Hatti in Kamla Nagar, And Virat Kohli's Favorite Rama Chole Bhature in Jail Road.

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2. Kulfi or Rabri Falooda

No Delhi food trail is complete without dessert. Kulfi falooda, a rich frozen milk dessert served with vermicelli and rose syrup, is a refreshing end to any meal. For the rabri falooda, vermicelli is served with delicious, creamy and rich rabri.

Must try: Giani The Hatti in Fatepurry, Russia

This may contain: a pan filled with food sitting on top of a stove next to cups and spoons

3. Parathe

The legendary shops in Delhi serve stuffed parathas, from classic aloo and gobi to more experimental khoya and banana versions. Served with chutney, pickles, and a side of potato curry—this is comfort food at its finest.

Must try: Parathe Wali Gali, Pandit Ji Paratha and Local Shops on the Roadside

This may contain: a silver plate topped with different types of food on top of a white countertop

4. Ram Laddoo

Ram ladoos are fluffy lentil fritters topped with grated radish and green chutney. A favourite winter snack, they are light yet bursting with flavour. Your best street food snack while shopping the busy markets of Delhi.

Must try: Tilak Nagar, Lajpat Nagar Central Market, and Rajouri Garden Market

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5. Kachori Sabzi

A crisp, flaky kachori served with spicy potato curry is a breakfast favourite in Old Delhi. A morning breakfast for many living here, these hot kachoris are freshly prepared at each nook and corner of the city.

Must try- Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place, Fatehpuri

This may contain: several small bowls filled with food on top of a white table next to other dishes

6. Momos

A relatively modern addition, momos have become a Delhi favourite. Steamed or fried, these dumplings are filled with vegetables, chicken, or paneer and served with spicy red chutney. No Delhiite can live without momos, and Delhi surely has some of the best places serving the best.

Must try: Majnu Ka Tila, Saidulajab, Lajpat Nagar Korean Stalls, and Ramesh Nagar in West Delhi

This may contain: a basket filled with dumplings next to chopsticks on top of a table

7. Bhalla Papdi Chaat

A vibrant mix of papdi, boiled potatoes, bhallas, yoghurt, chutneys, and masala, this is Delhi’s most flavorful comfort food.

Must try: For the best Bhalle Papdi chaat, you cannot miss Bengali Market in Central Delhi, Natraj Bhalle wala, and a Famous street food vendor in Nehru Place

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8. Kebab

From succulent galouti to spicy seekh kebabs, Delhi’s kebab scene is unmatched. Served fresh out of the skewers, these juicy meat or chicken kebabs are best served with tangy green chutney, onion and folded perfectly in rumali roti.

Must try: Khan Chacha in Khan Market, Karim's in Jama Masjid for Authentic Mughlai Flavors

This may contain: two skewered meats on a black plate with red onions and salsa

Delhi’s street food isn’t just about taste—it’s about tradition, culture, and a shared community experience. Apart from the rich, fine dining experience, Delhi is also famous for its rich street food places serving the best for ages.

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