Eat like a local: 10 hidden food joints in Delhi/NCR that you can’t miss

Delhi, a city full of history and vibrant culture, has a food scene as diverse as its people. From fine dining joints to bustling street vendors, the capital caters to every taste. But beyond the well-known places lie hidden treasures – simple restaurants hidden in forgotten corners, serving culinary delights with a special charm. Join us on this secret culinary adventure as we uncover some of the best hidden gems of Delhi that are a must-visit for curious foodies. So, steer clear of the guidebooks and the run-of-the-mill places. Here is our handpicked list of 10 hidden gems of Delhi that will tantalise your taste buds and take you on a delicious adventure:

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10 must-visit hidden places for food lovers in Delhi:

1. Mizo Diner (Safdarjung):

Located in the heart of Safdarjung, Mizo Diner is a place that serves authentic Mizo cuisine even on a budget. This hidden gem offers a unique culinary experience that reflects the flavours of Mizoram, a state bordering Myanmar. Don’t miss the pork dishes like pork curry, stir fry pork, smoked pork thali, pork ribs and tauh, which is a fresh Burmese salad with chopped vegetables and a light peanut dressing. The diner itself is a charming and artistic place, with quirky paintings and a warm ambiance.
What: Mizo Diner
Location: 85, Humayunpur, Safdarjung, New Delhi
When: 12pm to 11pm
Cost: Rs 600 for two (approx)

2. Shirin Bhawan (Chitali Qabbar):

For those with a sweet tooth, Shireen Bhawan is a must-visit. Located in the lesser-known area of ​​Chitali Qabbar, this traditional halwai (sweets shop) is famous for its unique and delicious halwas. From the classic gajar ka halwa (carrot pudding) to the more unique aloe vera halwa and white carrot halwa, Shireen Bhawan offers a wonderful exploration of Indian sweets. Their special Habshi Halwa, made with black gram flour and ghee, is a must-try for food lovers.
What: Shireen Bhawan
Where: Bazaar Chitli Qabar, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi
When: 6am to 12pm
Cost: Rs 200 for two (approx)

3. Jhakas Bombay Pav Bhaji

Jhakaas Bombay Pav Bhaji is a small stall in Lajpat Nagar market that serves delicious Mumbai street food. Known for its variety, it serves mouth-watering pav bhaji and vada pav. Enjoy options like cheese pav bhaji, butter pav bhaji and masala vada pav. They also offer Bombay tawa pulao, chaap, tikka and rolls. This place is perfect for delicious Mumbai street food at a budget-friendly price.
What: Amazing Bombay Pav Bhaji
When: 8am to 11pm
Address: E-20, Central Market, Defence Colony, Veer Savarkar Marg, Lajpat Nagar
Cost: INR 150 per order (approx.)

4. Ambersari Dhaba (Lajpat Nagar)

Mutton lovers will love this place. The dhaba style mutton dishes are so delicious, so mouth-watering and so satisfying that you will forget all other restaurants. This small outlet located in Jalpat Nagar prepares the choicest dishes made in desi ghee and our favourites are the keema meat, chicken korma and keema curry.
What: Ambersari Dhaba
Location: C-125, Near Flyover Market, Lajpat Nagar 1, New Delhi
When: Monday, Wednesday-Sunday: 1:30 pm – 7 pm, 7:15 pm – 10 pm, Tuesday: Closed
Cost: INR 350 for two (approx)

5. Nagaland Kitchen (Green Park)

For those craving the tangy flavours of Naga cuisine, there is no better place than Nagaland Kitchen. With its cosy ambiance, dim lights and bamboo interiors, this eatery has the rustic charm of a quaint shack. Get ready to be mesmerised by the enticing aroma of northeastern herbs while relishing dishes like bamboo shoot pork, Naga thali, pork chilli and thukpa, all prepared with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients.
What: Nagaland cuisine
Location: S-2, Uphaar Cinema Complex, Green Park Extension Market, Green Park, New Delhi
When: 11:30 am to 12 midnight
Cost: Rs 1,800 for two (approx)

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6. Lotan Chole Kulche Wala (Chawri Bazaar):

Start your day with a sumptuous and historic breakfast at Lotan’s Chole Kulche in Chawri Bazaar. Established in 1922, this iconic stall is a local favourite. The highlight is their chole, a spicy chickpea curry cooked with aromatic spices, served with kulche (leavened flatbread). The simplicity belies the depth of flavour, a perfect combination of tangy, salty and slightly sweet notes. Be prepared for a lack of space and enjoy the bustling energy of Old Delhi.
What: Lotan’s Chole Kulche
Where: 2363, Chatta Shahji, Chawri Bazaar, Old Delhi
When: 7:30am – 10:30am

7. Gujarat Namkeen (Paschim Vihar)

Gujarat Namkeen is not your typical snack shop. They specialise in authentic Gujarati farsan like dhokla, khandvi and khakhra, all prepared with fresh ingredients. But that’s not all! Gujarat Namkeen also serves healthy options like mithai (sweets), Delhi-special samosas, gol gappas and roasted namkeens and diet food.
What: Gujarat Namkeen
Where: 52/A-4, Holland House, Market, Jwalaheri Village, Paschim Vihar
When: 9 am – 9.45 pm
Cost: Rs 300 for two (approx)

8. Minerals The Garden Cafe (Asian Games)

Minerals The Garden Café is just the place for you. This charming café offers a calm atmosphere with lush lawns, perfect for a relaxing breakfast, brunch or a cup of coffee. Their menu has a delicious mix of healthy and tasty dishes for both health-conscious foodies and those with a sweet tooth.
What: Minerals The Garden Cafe
Venue: Asian Games Village Complex, Siri Fort Institutional Area
When: 7am to 11pm
Cost: 650 for two (approx)

9. Anand Restaurant (Connaught Place)

After shopping, our stomachs often crave for a delicious non-veg meal. Anand Restaurant is here to fulfill this desire of yours. Don’t be fooled by their small, rusty structure, the food they serve is truly amazing. The place is famous for its range of biryanis, but you can also try other non-vegetarian dishes here. Served on a steel plate, the food is as desi as it can be.
What: Ananda Restaurant
Location: 15/96, Scindia House, Connaught Place, New Delhi
When: 10am to 11pm
Cost: Rs 500 for two (approx)

10. Novelty Dairy & Stores (Jangpura)

This hidden gem offers a wealth of unique and high-quality dairy products as well as daily essentials from artisan cheese to fresh butter. But that’s not all you can enjoy here. On your visit here, you must try their sandwiches, which have a huge fan following. You can also try their puffs, burgers, and cold coffee.
What: Novelty Dairy & Stores
Address: Shop No. 43, Birbal Road, Opposite Post Office, Jangpura Extension
When: 8 am to 2 pm, 4.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Cost: Rs 150 (approx) for one order

11. Roti and Boti

Experience the culinary magic of Roti N Boti, which serves some of the tastiest Indian snacks in Delhi like shawarma, rolls, chaap and kebabs. Head there for a casual and affordable meal and return with your heart and stomach satiated.
What: Roti and Boti
Location: 15/16 B, Shop No.3, Mangal Bazar Road, Block 15, Tilak Nagar
When: 2.30 – 11.30 pm
Cost: INR150 (approx) for one order

12. Boju’s Kitchen

Started as a home kitchen during the pandemic, this Himalayan kitchen run by a mother-daughter duo from Darjeeling offers hearty, no-fuss and delicious Nepali food. Try their Thukpa, Sadeku Momos, Aloo Achaar and fermented vegetables among others. Tucked away from the crowds on 32nd Avenue, this cozy restaurant is a real gem.
What: Boju’s Kitchen
Location: The Highline, 32nd Avenue, Sector 15 Part 2, Sector 15,
When: 12.30pm-11pm
Cost: Rs 1,000 for two people (approx)

If you call yourself a true foodie, then you simply cannot miss these food outlets located in Delhi/NCR.