Old Delhi. A labyrinthine maze of bustling streets, overflowing with history and aromas that assault the senses in the best way possible. It’s a paradise for foodies, especially those with a penchant for succulent kebabs, fiery curries, and the rich legacy of Mughlai cuisine. But let’s face it, everyone knows Karim’s, and that legendary status often comes with a not-so-legendary queue.
Fear not, fellow carnivores! We’re here to unveil the hidden gems – those secret spots tucked away in the bylanes, waiting to tantalize your taste buds with explosions of flavour. So, ditch the queue and embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Delhi, one delicious bite at a time.
Here are our top 6 picks for the best non-veg experiences beyond the famed Karim’s:
Al Jawahar: Where Mughlai Magic Reigns Supreme
Al Jawahar is a legend whispered amongst true Delhi foodies. Established in 1880, this restaurant is steeped in history, and the flavours on your plate reflect that heritage. Their menu is a love letter to Mughlai cuisine, boasting melt-in-your-mouth kebabs – the melt-in-your-mouth being the operative phrase here. Try the succulent Galouti Kebabs, so tender they practically disintegrate on your tongue, or the Shaami Kebabs, a delightful combination of minced lamb and lentil.
But the star of the show is undoubtedly the Nihari, a slow-cooked stew of meat, bone marrow, and spices – a dish that’s as rich in flavour as it is in history. Pair it with their legendary Khamiri Roti, a leavened flatbread that’s the perfect vessel for soaking up all that deliciousness.
Insider Tip: Be prepared for a no-frills experience. Al Jawahar is all about the food, and the setting is basic. But trust us, the flavours will leave you speechless.
Aslam Chicken Corner: A Street Food Symphony
Aslam Chicken Corner isn’t fancy. It’s a tiny stall tucked away in a bustling lane, the kind of place you might miss if you weren’t looking closely. But don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you. This place is a haven for those who crave authentic Delhi street food.
Their speciality is the Tandoori Chicken. Marinated in a secret blend of spices and slow-cooked in a clay oven, the chicken emerges perfectly charred on the outside and unbelievably juicy within. Each bite is a symphony of smoky flavour and aromatic spices.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to grab a plate of their Chicken Tikka Masala. It’s not your typical creamy version – this one is fiery and full of robust flavour, a true testament to the magic of street food cooking.
Haji Mohd. Hussain: Unveiling the Secrets of Haleem
Haji Mohd. Hussain is another Old Delhi institution, famous for their Haleem, a rich stew traditionally eaten during Ramadan. This slow-cooked concoction of meat, lentils, wheat, and spices is a labour of love, taking hours to prepare to perfection. The result? A deeply flavourful dish that’s both hearty and comforting.
But Haji Mohd. Hussain isn’t a one-trick pony. Their Nihari is another must-try, boasting a unique blend of spices that sets it apart from other renditions in the city. And for something a little lighter, try their Chicken Korma, a creamy curry that’s perfect for dipping your Roomali Roti (handkerchief-thin flatbread) into.
Pehalwaan Biryaniwale: A Knockout Punch of Flavour
Pehalwaan Biryaniwale lives up to its name – their biryani packs a flavourful punch that’ll leave you wanting more. This isn’t your average biryani – the rice is cooked to fluffy perfection, infused with aromatic spices and tender chunks of meat.
Mutton Biryani is their signature dish, but they also offer a delicious Chicken Biryani for those who prefer a lighter option. Each biryani is cooked in a sealed handi (earthenware pot), ensuring all the flavours meld together beautifully.
Local Secret: Pair your biryani with a plate of their Mirchi ka Salan (spicy gravy) for an extra kick.
Dilpasand Biryani – Taufeeq Biryani: A Biryani Legacy Continues
We head straight for the holy grail of Mughlai cuisine: biryani. Forget the struggle for that coveted table at Karim’s. Head instead to Dilpasand Biryani, a haven for biryani aficionados. Here, at Taufeeq’s stall, the focus is on slow-cooked perfection. Generous portions of succulent chicken or mutton are layered with fragrant rice, each grain infused with the warmth of saffron, cardamom, and a secret blend of spices passed down through generations. Be warned – one whiff of this steaming biryani, and your taste buds will be singing your praises.
Qureshi Kebab Corner: Unveiling the Art of Skewers
Next, prepare to have your skepticisms about kebabs shattered. Qureshi Kebab Corner isn’t fancy, but it’s a place where artistry meets fire. Here, the focus is on traditional techniques – meats are marinated overnight in a symphony of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and fragrant spices, before being expertly grilled over glowing embers. The result? Kebabs that are juicy on the inside, with a perfectly charred exterior that explodes with flavour in your mouth. From the melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs to the robust seekh kebabs, each skewer is a testament to the mastery of the grill.
