Chandni Chowk, the heart of Old Delhi, is a paradise for food lovers, known for its bustling streets lined with iconic eateries and stalls that have stood the test of time. Steeped in history and rich in flavor, Chandni Chowk’s food scene showcases the essence of Delhi’s culinary heritage, offering everything from spicy chaats to mouth-watering sweets.
A Journey Through the Iconic Street Foods of Chandni Chowk
Paranthe Wali Gali: A legendary spot for parantha lovers, Paranthe Wali Gali is known for its delicious, stuffed paranthas cooked in pure ghee. With fillings like potatoes, paneer, and even rabri, these paranthas are a unique take on the traditional Indian flatbread, offering flavors that are hard to find elsewhere.
Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner: A must-visit for fans of Indian street food, Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner serves soft, tangy dahi bhallas topped with sweet chutney and spices. Located near Bhai Mati Das Chowk, this iconic spot has been delighting locals and visitors with its refreshing and flavorful dahi bhallas for decades.
Jalebi Wala: No trip to Chandni Chowk is complete without tasting the piping hot jalebis from the famous Jalebi Wala. Known for their thick, juicy jalebis made from pure desi ghee, this iconic sweet shop attracts people from all over Delhi, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Sweets That Define Old Delhi
Ghantewala Halwai: One of Delhi’s oldest sweet shops, Ghantewala Halwai is known for its traditional Indian sweets like sohan halwa and Karachi halwa. The shop has a legacy spanning centuries, offering sweets prepared with recipes passed down through generations.
Haji Tea Point and Shahi Tukda: This spot is famous for its rich, syrupy Shahi Tukda, a Mughal-inspired bread pudding soaked in condensed milk and garnished with dry fruits. Paired with a hot cup of tea, this dessert is a sweet ending to a spicy food trail.
Spice and Dry Fruit Heaven at Khari Baoli
For food enthusiasts who want to stock up on spices, Chandni Chowk’s Khari Baoli is Asia’s largest spice market, offering everything from vibrant red chilies and turmeric to fragrant garam masala. It’s a go-to destination for those looking to explore the aromatic world of Indian spices, dried fruits, and nuts.
Must-Try Savories
Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale: Known for its innovative fruit kulfis, Kuremal Kulfi is a hidden gem in Chandni Chowk that serves kulfis infused with flavors like pomegranate, mango, and even paan. This cold treat is a perfect escape from Delhi’s heat and offers an authentic taste of Indian desserts.
Aslam Chicken Corner: For meat lovers, Aslam Chicken Corner serves succulent, butter-loaded chicken that’s an experience in itself. Grilled to perfection and bathed in a unique butter sauce, the chicken here is tender, flavorful, and a must-have for visitors looking to explore Chandni Chowk’s savory side.
Traditional Chaat Stops
Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar: This chaat spot is known for its signature aloo chaat and papdi chaat. With a blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, the chaat here is an explosion of taste that leaves visitors craving more.
Conclusion
Chandni Chowk, with its rich history and diverse food offerings, stands as a testament to Delhi’s love for food and flavors. Each corner of this bustling market brings a unique taste, whether it’s the tangy chaats, buttery chicken, or sweet jalebis. A visit to Chandni Chowk is an essential pilgrimage for any food lover eager to experience the true essence of Delhi’s culinary legacy. Come hungry, leave with memories of flavors that will linger long after you leave!
