Exploring the Street Food of Delhi: A Culinary Adventure
Prices may be vary………..
Delhi, the heart of India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, most importantly, its delectable street food. The moment I stepped onto the bustling streets, the aroma of sizzling spices, fresh bread, and simmering gravies immediately welcomed me. As a passionate traveler and food enthusiast, I eagerly embarked on a journey to explore the city’s most iconic street foods. Without a doubt, from Chandni Chowk to Connaught Place, each location had something unique to offer. In this blog, I’ll take you through my food trail, sharing not only my experiences but also insightful details about the cost and budget required for this delicious adventure.
Day 1: A Gastronomic Journey Begins in Chandni Chowk
Paranthe Wali Gali: A Breakfast Delight
My first stop was the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali, a narrow alley in Chandni Chowk famous for its stuffed parathas. These deep-fried flatbreads come with a variety of fillings—potatoes, paneer, radish, and even dry fruits. Moreover, they are served with tangy pickles, flavorful chutneys, and refreshing yogurt, making them an absolute delight. Additionally, I opted for a mixed paratha plate, which cost me ₹80 per paratha.
Aloo Tikki and Chaat: A Spicy Affair
After a hearty breakfast, I quickly walked towards Natraj Dahi Bhalla, a small yet famous shop serving crispy Aloo Tikki and creamy Dahi Bhalla. Not only was the combination of crispy fried potatoes, sweet yogurt, and tangy tamarind chutney an explosion of flavors, but it was also incredibly affordable. Furthermore, the price? ₹60 for a plate of Aloo Tikki and ₹70 for Dahi Bhalla.
Daulat Ki Chaat: A Winter Specialty
Since I visited in winter, I certainly couldn’t miss trying Daulat Ki Chaat, a delicate, frothy dessert available only during the colder months. Surprisingly, it is made from milk foam and saffron, making it incredibly light and melt-in-the-mouth. Furthermore, a small serving cost me just ₹50.
Day 2: Exploring Karol Bagh and Paharganj
Chole Bhature: A Must-Try
The next morning, I eagerly ventured to Karol Bagh, where I indulged in Chole Bhature at Sita Ram Diwan Chand. Indeed, the fluffy, golden bhature paired with spicy, tangy chole was simply irresistible. Moreover, a full plate cost ₹100, and it kept me full for hours.
Ram Ladoo: A Crunchy Snack
As I strolled through Paharganj, I suddenly found a vendor selling Ram Ladoo—small, deep-fried lentil fritters served with grated radish and spicy green chutney. This crunchy, zesty snack was perfect for an afternoon treat. Additionally, it was budget-friendly, priced at ₹40 per plate.
Day 3: South Delhi’s Street Food Gems
Kebabs at Khan Market
No visit to Delhi is complete without tasting Mughlai delicacies. Therefore, I headed to Khan Market and tried Seekh Kebabs and Chicken Tikka at a famous local eatery. Certainly, the smoky, succulent meat, marinated in aromatic spices, was cooked to perfection. Furthermore, a plate of kebabs cost ₹200.
Momos at Lajpat Nagar
From there, I quickly moved to Lajpat Nagar, a paradise for momo lovers. Additionally, I tried Tandoori Momos—a spicy, grilled version of the classic steamed dumplings. Moreover, priced at ₹120 per plate, these momos had the perfect balance of smoky and spicy flavors.
Day 4: Connaught Place and India Gate Delights
Pav Bhaji and Vada Pav
At Connaught Place, I discovered an amazing food stall serving Pav Bhaji and Vada Pav. The buttery, spicy mashed vegetables with soft pav bread were heavenly, and a plate cost ₹80. Moreover, the Vada Pav, a Mumbai-origin street food, was equally delightful at just ₹50.
Kulfi Falooda at India Gate
As the day ended, I happily headed to India Gate, where I savored Kulfi Falooda—a creamy frozen dessert topped with sweet vermicelli. Without a doubt, this refreshing dessert cost ₹100 and was the perfect way to end my food journey.
Budget Breakdown and Best Time to Visit
Fare and Ticket Prices
- Metro Pass for Four Days: ₹600
- Rickshaw and Auto Fares: ₹500
- Total Transport Cost: ₹1,100
Food Expenses
- Street Food (Average per Day): ₹500
- Total for Four Days: ₹2,000
Accommodation
- Budget Stay (Per Night): ₹1,000
- Total for Four Days: ₹4,000
Miscellaneous Expenses
- Shopping, Drinks, and Tips: ₹1,000
Total Budget for Four Days
- ₹8,100 (excluding flight/train tickets)
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Delhi’s street food is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and winter specialties like Daulat Ki Chaat are available.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Exploring Delhi’s street food scene was one of the most memorable culinary experiences of my life. Moreover, the variety, the flavors, and the affordability make it an ideal destination for food lovers. Additionally, if you’re planning to immerse yourself in this gastronomic journey, four days are enough to cover the best spots. However, if you have extra time, an additional day to explore lesser-known local eateries would be worthwhile.
Would I do it again? Absolutely! Delhi’s street food never gets old, and every visit brings a new surprise. Therefore, if you’re a foodie, pack your bags and embark on this mouthwatering adventure—you won’t regret it!