Forget overpriced menus and stuffy fine-dining! South Delhi’s culinary crown jewel lies in its electrifying street food scene. Here, amidst the friendly chaos, aroma-filled air, and the rhythmic clanging of woks, you’ll discover an explosion of flavours that will have your taste buds doing a joyous dance. We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth kebabs whispering secrets of exotic spices, crispy samosas shattering with a delightful crunch, and curries that pack a flavour punch that Muhammad Ali himself would admire.
Ready to embark on a flavour adventure unlike any other? Ditch the Michelin stars and grab a napkin (you’ll need it!), because our guide to the 10 best street food stalls in South Delhi is about to take your Delhi experience to a whole new level. Hold onto your hats, foodies, because it’s about to get delicious!
Dolma Aunty Momos: A Tibetan Treasure Trove
Nestled in the bylanes of Lajpat Nagar Market, Dolma Aunty Momos is a legend. This unassuming stall, run by the ever-smiling Dolma Aunty herself, is a haven for momo aficionados. These Tibetan steamed dumplings come in a variety of delectable fillings, from the classic potato and veggie to the more adventurous mutton and cheese. Each momo is a perfect little pouch of flavour, thanks to Dolma Aunty’s generations-old recipe and her generous hand with fresh ingredients. Dunk them in her fiery red chutney for an extra kick, and prepare to be transported to the Himalayan foothills with every delightful bite.
Baba Nagpal Corner: Kebabs That Sizzle and Sing
Craving kebabs that are juicy, succulent, and bursting with flavour? Look no further than Baba Nagpal Corner in Old Double Storey, Amar Colony, Lajpat Nagar 4. This iconic stall has been satiating Delhi’s meat-loving desires for decades. Their menu is a carnivore’s dream, featuring kebabs of all shapes, sizes, and marinades. Sink your teeth into their melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs, or try the tandoori chicken for a smoky, flavourful experience. Don’t forget to pair your kebabs with their creamy rumali roti, the perfect vessel to mop up every last bit of deliciousness.
Bombay Bhel Puri: A Symphony of Sweet & Savoury
Calling all chaat fanatics! Bombay Bhel Puri in Chittaranjan Park is your one-stop shop for this iconic Mumbai street food. Their bhel puri is a masterpiece of textures and flavours. Imagine a symphony of crispy puffs (pudi), tangy chutneys, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy sev, all tossed together in a flavourful tamarind sauce. Each mouthful is a delightful explosion of sweet, savoury, and tangy notes, guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
Raju Puchka Wala: The King of Pani Puris
Raju Puchka Wala in Defence Colony Market isn’t just a stall; it’s an institution. Their claim to fame? The legendary pani puri. These bite-sized delights are crispy spheres filled with a flavourful potato mixture and dipped in a secret-recipe pani (water) that explodes with flavour in your mouth. Be warned, though – it’s near impossible to have just one!
Kolkata Hot Kathi Roll: A Rollin’ Good Time
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying bite, look no further than Kolkata Hot Kathi Roll in Chittaranjan Par. Their speciality, as the name suggests, is the kathi roll – a flavour bomb wrapped in a flaky paratha. Choose from a variety of fillings, like succulent kebabs, melt-in-your-mouth chicken tikka masala, or a spicy vegetable option. Each roll is cooked to perfection on a hot griddle, ensuring a delightful mix of crispy and soft textures.
Dadu Cutlet Shop: A Vegetarian’s Delight
Dadu Cutlet Shop in Chittaranjan Park Market is a haven for vegetarians and non- vegetarians. Their namesake cutlets are legendary, made with a variety of vegetables like potatoes, beetroot, and even paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Each cutlet is perfectly spiced, golden-fried to perfection, and served with a tangy chutney. I would suggest to have their fried bhetki fish, egg devil chop, Mughlai paranthas and mocha chop.They also offer a variety of other vegetarian treats, making Dadu Cutlet Shop a one-stop shop for a delicious and fulfilling vegetarian street food experience.
Vikas Bishwas — Jhaal Muri Waala: The King of Spicy Puffed Rice
We head to the iconic Vikas Bishwas, a legend in the world of Jhaal Muri (Spicy Puffed Rice). This unassuming stall, nestled in Chittaranjan Park, has been satiating Delhi’s love for all things fiery for decades. Vikas, a master of his craft, meticulously prepares his Jhaal Muri with a secret blend of spices that will leave your taste buds tingling with a delightful explosion. The puffed rice gets its delightful crunch from being tossed in mustard oil, and the tangy tomatoes and fresh coriander add a welcome layer of refreshment. Be warned: this is not for the faint of heart! But for those who crave a flavour bomb, Vikas Bishwas’ Jhaal Muri is a must-try.
Khandani Pakore Wala: A Symphony of Crispy Fritters
Next, we delve into the world of fritters at the legendary Khandani Pakora Wala. This family-run stall, boasting a legacy of over 70 years, is renowned for its impossibly crisp pakoras (fritters). From melt-in-your-mouth potato pakoras to flavourful paneer (cottage cheese) pakoras, their selection is a testament to their expertise. The secret lies in their light, airy batter that coats the fillings perfectly, ensuring maximum crispness without a hint of greasiness. Don’t forget to pair your pakoras with their signature chutneys (dipping sauces) – the tangy green chutney and the creamy white chutney are the perfect complements to these flavourful delights.
Prince Paan & Chaat Corner: A Sweet & Savoury Extravaganza
Now, for a taste of sweet and savoury in perfect harmony, head to Prince Paan & Chaat Corner. Here, the star of the show is their iconic Paan (betel leaf). This unique preparation, a speciality of South Asia, is a delightful combination of sweet, savoury, and spicy elements. The betel leaf is meticulously layered with sweet candied fruits, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a hint of refreshing lime, creating a flavour explosion in every bite.
But their repertoire doesn’t end there. Prince also serves up a delectable selection of chaat (street snacks) that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. From the tangy and spicy Dahi Bhalla (fried lentil balls dipped in yoghurt) to the savoury Aloo Tikki (potato cutlet), each bite is a burst of flavour and textures.
Azam’s Mughlai: A Legacy of Mughal Delights
For a taste of history, a visit to Azam’s Mughlai is a must. This iconic stall, established in 1913, has been serving up melt-in-your-mouth kebabs for over a century. Their secret lies in their generations-old recipes, passed down from the Mughal era. The succulent kebabs are marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, then cooked to perfection over charcoal, imbuing them with a smoky flavour that’ll have you yearning for more. Don’t miss their signature Seekh Kebabs (minced meat skewers) or the melt-in-your-mouth Galouti Kebabs (deconstructed kebabs). Pair them with their creamy rumali rotis (flatbreads) for an unforgettable experience.
