New Delhi: Stepping the the lanes of Old Delhi feels like walking in a museum filled with flavours, culture and aroma that is filled with ancient stories. From narrow lanes to a small shop, each corner is filled with history and love for food. From sizzling kebabs, creamy rabri falooda, malai milk to crispy jalebis, each lane has its unique flavour and authenticity, making it one of the best in the world.
From the chaotic lanes with rickshaws tinkling, the chatter and movement of people in and out of the small shops across the streets, it all adds to the charm of Old Delhi and makes it worth a visit each time to dig into the best flavours.
Each bite in the walled city is extraordinary and connects you to the centuries-old heritage. The legendary lanes are home to recipes that have been perfected over generations. From Mughal treats to sweets made using heirloom techniques, here is your guide to the best lanes in Old Delhi that you absolutely cannot skip as a true Delhite or a food lover.
Legendary lanes in Old Delhi for food lovers
1. Chandni Chowk
A culinary universe in itself, the lanes of Chandni Chowk have so many hidden gems across the street that are to be explored. From the legendary Paranthe Wali Gali serving crispy, hot, stuffed paranthas to iconic Natraj Dahi Bhalle, a must-try delicacy from the 1940s, to the fruit cream served right outside the Sheesh Ganj Gurudwara and chai butter toast at the corner shop near Gurudwara.
2. Jama Masjid
Just opposite the majestic Jama Masjid, is a bustling lane filled with shops that are iconic and have been there for many years, serving stunning Mughali cuisines, from the narrow lanes, corner shops to food stalls. Each place has its own uniqueness and flavour, serving the best biryanis, mutton, keema, to many other delicious treats. You cannot skip enjoying the iconic Aslam Butter Chicken, Al Jawahar for mutton nihari, and Karim’s for the best kebabs and chicken curry. Plan your visit to Jama Masjid for flavours, texture and unapologetically rich aroma.
3. Chawri Bazaar
Often overshadowed by the Chandni Chowk, the lanes in Chawri are no less for the old-world food charm. Try Shyam sweets for its bedmi puri and nagori halwa or doodh jalebi during the winter mornings to capture the true essence of Old Delhi.
4. Khari Baoli
While famous as Asia’s largest spice market, Khari Baoli is also a must-visit for its flavour-filled street eats. The scent of freshly ground masalas mingles with frying pakoras and chole kulche being served from age-old carts. Stop by Mehar Chand and Sons for traditional spice blends, or sip a steaming cup of masala chai from one of the tiny stalls that line the street — the perfect pause amid the chaos.
5. Gali Kebabian
True to its name, Gali Kababian (literally, the lane of kebabs) is a meat lover’s dream. Juicy seekh kebabs, smoky boti kebabs, and tender buff biryani define this street. Locals swear by Qureshi Kebab Corner for its perfectly charred skewers and melt-in-mouth texture. Come after sunset when the grills are lit, and the air becomes thick with the intoxicating scent of spices and smoke — pure Delhi magic.
6. Ballimaran
Once home to Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, Ballimaran combines culture with culinary delight. The area’s charm lies in its mix of history and street food. Try rabri falooda at Cool Point or butter chicken rolls from Al Bake — both local legends. End your walk at Ghalib’s Haveli, and you’ll understand how food, poetry, and history blend seamlessly in this part of Old Delhi.
These are some of the most iconic lanes of Old Dehli that you cannot skip as a true food lover or someone who is looking to capture the true charm of Delhi through its lens and taste buds.