10 Eateries To Indulge in Delhi During Ramadan

Delhi’s culinary landscape during Ramadan is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, traditions, and communal gatherings. While the lanes around Jama Masjid are famed for their rich gastronomic offerings, the city's diverse neighbourhoods, including Shaheen Bagh, Zakir Nagar, and Chandni Chowk, present a plethora of culinary delights that cater to both traditional palates and contemporary tastes.

Exploring these eateries during Ramadan offers more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into Delhi’s rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. Each establishment, with its unique offerings, tells a story of the city’s evolving yet enduring love affair with food.

1. Karim’s: A Mughal Culinary Legacy

Established in 1913, Karim’s is a name synonymous with Mughlai cuisine. Founded by Haji Karimuddin, a descendant of royal cooks from the Mughal era, the restaurant aimed to bring the grandeur of Mughal cuisine to the streets of Delhi. The eatery quickly gained a reputation for its rich, slow-cooked curries and charcoal-grilled kebabs, keeping alive the flavours that once graced the tables of emperors.

During Ramadan, the place is bustling with patrons eager to break their fast with the rich, aromatic dishes that have been perfected over the decades. Their mutton nihari, cooked overnight to achieve tender perfection, is a crowd favourite. The thick, flavourful gravy, paired with fresh tandoori rotis, is a soul-satisfying experience. The kebabs, made with finely minced meat and a secret blend of spices, are another highlight.

Despite its modest interiors, the charm of Karim’s lies in its unwavering dedication to authentic recipes and quality. The historical significance of dining in a place that has served dignitaries, Bollywood celebrities, and commoners alike makes it an unmissable experience.

Where: Near Jama Masjid, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid (Violet Line)

Must-Try: Mutton Nihari, Kebabs, Mutton Korma

2. Al Jawahar: Timeless Flavours Beside Jama Masjid

Al Jawahar, founded in the 1940s, is named in honour of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Situated next to Karim’s, this restaurant often sparks a friendly rivalry with its neighbour over who serves the best Mughlai food. Despite the competition, Al Jawahar has carved a niche for itself with its rustic yet rich flavours.

The mutton korma is their flagship dish, a robustly spiced curry with succulent pieces of meat simmered in a thick, aromatic gravy. Another must-try is their biryani, prepared in the traditional dum style, where layers of fragrant basmati rice and marinated meat are slow-cooked to perfection. The Chicken Changezi, named after the Mongol ruler Genghis Khan, is a smoky, spicy delight, ideal for those who enjoy a bold, fiery flavour profile.

During Ramadan, the streets around Al Jawahar are filled with the sound of sizzling meats and the scent of fragrant spices. The restaurant is always packed, so arriving early for iftar is advisable. With its affordable pricing, generous portions, and deep-rooted history, Al Jawahar remains one of the most beloved Mughlai food destinations in Delhi.

Where: Matia Mahal, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid (Violet Line)

Must-Try: Mutton Korma, Biryani, Chicken Changezi

3. Aslam Chicken Corner: Butter-Drenched Delicacies

Aslam Chicken Corner is a haven for those who love grilled meats infused with butter. Unlike the usual North Indian butter chicken found in Delhi, Aslam’s version is unique. Here, the chicken is first marinated in a mix of secret spices, grilled over charcoal until it develops a crisp exterior, and then dunked in a bowl of molten butter, giving it an ultra-rich texture and flavour.

The story of Aslam Chicken Corner began as a small street stall before growing into one of the most famous eateries in Jama Masjid. What makes this place truly stand out is the sheer indulgence of its dishes – every bite is dripping with butter, making it a decadent treat, particularly during Ramadan when feasting takes precedence.

A trip to Aslam is incomplete without trying their Malai Tikka, which is marinated in cream and mild spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a dollop of butter. Served with roomali roti and a side of fresh onions and mint chutney, every bite is a burst of flavour.

Despite its humble setting, Aslam Chicken Corner attracts food lovers from across the country. It is a must-visit for anyone looking for a different take on Delhi’s traditional grilled meats.

Where: Jama Masjid Road, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid (Violet Line)

Must-Try: Butter Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Malai Tikka

4. Javed’s Nihari: A Shaheen Bagh Staple

Javed’s Nihari is a relatively newer entrant compared to the age-old eateries of Old Delhi, but it has quickly established itself as a top spot for one of Delhi’s most iconic dishes—nihari. Traditionally eaten as a breakfast dish, nihari is a slow-cooked stew made with mutton or beef, flavoured with a rich blend of spices, and left to simmer overnight.

The nihari at Javed’s is known for its deep, complex flavours, achieved through meticulous slow cooking. The meat is so tender that it effortlessly falls off the bone, melting in the mouth. Paired with soft, saffron-infused sheermal bread, it makes for a truly indulgent meal.

During Ramadan, Javed’s Nihari is particularly popular for suhoor (pre-dawn meal), giving people the energy they need to sustain their fast throughout the day. Unlike the more commercialised nihari joints, Javed’s retains an old-school charm, where recipes are still prepared in large, traditional deghs (cauldrons), just as they were generations ago.

For anyone looking to explore the diverse food scene beyond Old Delhi, Javed’s Nihari is a must-visit, offering a taste of tradition in the heart of South Delhi.

Where: Shaheen Bagh Main Road, South Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jasola Vihar Shaheen Bagh (Magenta Line)

Must-Try: Nihari, Paya, Sheermal

5. Afghan Darbar: A Taste of Kabul in Zakir Nagar

Afghan Darbar brings the flavours of Kabul to Delhi, offering a culinary experience distinct from the Mughlai-heavy offerings of Old Delhi. Zakir Nagar, known for its diverse South Asian food culture, is home to many Afghan immigrants, and this restaurant has become a hub for those craving authentic Afghan food.

The highlight here is the Chapli Kebab, a flat minced meat patty infused with pomegranate seeds and spices, grilled to perfection. Another must-try is the Kabuli Pulao, a fragrant rice dish topped with carrots, raisins, and tender chunks of mutton. The Mantu, delicate dumplings stuffed with minced meat and topped with garlic-yoghurt sauce, is a rare find in Delhi and an absolute delight.

During Ramadan, Afghan Darbar is especially busy, serving hearty meals to those breaking their fast. The flavours here are subtler than Indian spices, but the depth of taste makes each dish an unforgettable experience.

Where: Zakir Nagar, South Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jamia Millia Islamia (Magenta Line)

Must-Try: Chapli Kebabs, Mantu (Afghan Dumplings), Kabuli Pulao

6. Gali Paranthe Wali: Chandni Chowk’s Parantha Paradise

Gali Paranthe Wali is one of Chandni Chowk’s most iconic food destinations. This narrow street, famous for its deep-fried stuffed paranthas, has been around since the late 19th century. Unlike regular paranthas, these are fried in desi ghee, giving them a crisp yet flaky texture.

During Ramadan, this place is bustling with locals and tourists eager to experience a filling iftar meal. The Rabri Parantha, a sweet variant stuffed with thickened milk and dry fruits, is a unique indulgence, while the Mixed Stuffed Parantha—packed with potatoes, paneer, cauliflower, and lentils—is a savoury favourite.

Pairing these paranthas with homemade pickles and mint chutney elevates the flavours, making this street a must-visit for food lovers exploring Delhi during Ramadan.

Where: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line)

Must-Try: Rabri Parantha, Aloo Parantha, Mixed Stuffed Parantha

7. Haji Mohammad Hussain: Fried Chicken Extraordinaire

Located near Jama Masjid, Haji Mohammad Hussain’s eatery is famed for its crispy fried chicken, which stands out from other Indian-style fried chicken due to its unique blend of spices and deep-frying technique. Established decades ago, this place has remained a local favourite for those looking for a quick yet flavourful meal.

The Keema Golis—minced meatballs fried to perfection—are another Ramadan special, making for a rich and satisfying dish. Those looking for a more traditional Mughlai meal can opt for their mutton korma, which is thick, creamy, and perfectly spiced.

With its roots deeply embedded in Old Delhi’s food culture, this eatery is always packed during iftar, serving people eager to bite into its legendary fried delicacies.

Where: Jama Masjid, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid (Violet Line)

Must-Try: Fried Chicken, Keema Golis, Mutton Korma

8. Cool Point: Sweet Conclusions in Jama Masjid

No iftar feast is complete without a sweet treat, and Cool Point is the best place to get one. This tiny shop, established over 30 years ago, specialises in traditional Mughlai desserts that provide the perfect end to a rich meal.

Their Shahi Tukda, a bread pudding made with saffron-infused milk and nuts, is legendary. Its perfect balance of crispness and sweetness is a must-try. Their Phirni, a creamy rice pudding served in earthen pots, is another must-try, especially for those who love subtle, aromatic desserts.

During Ramadan, the shop introduces seasonal specialties like Mango Lassi and Rose Falooda, making it an ideal stop after indulging in spicy Mughlai delicacies.

Where: Jama Masjid Road, Old Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jama Masjid (Violet Line)

Must-Try: Shahi Tukda, Phirni, Mango Lassi

9. Zakir Nagar’s Kebab Lane: A Meat Lover’s Haven

During Ramadan, Zakir Nagar transforms into a bustling food district, with Kebab Lane being the heart of all action. Numerous street vendors line the lane, selling piping-hot kebabs and smoky grilled meats that attract food lovers from all over the city.

The Seekh Kebabs here are juicy, marinated with a perfect blend of spices, and cooked over open flames, giving them a delicious smokiness. The Shami Kebabs, made from finely minced mutton and gram flour, are soft and melt in the mouth. Chicken Shawarma, with its rich garlic sauce and pickled vegetables, adds a Middle Eastern twist to the scene.

This area truly comes alive at night, especially during Ramadan, making it one of the best offbeat food destinations in Delhi.

Where: Zakir Nagar, South Delhi

Nearest Metro Station: Jamia Millia Islamia (Magenta Line)

Must-Try: Seekh Kebabs, Shami Kebabs, Chicken Shawarma

10. Chandni Chowk’s Jalebi Wala: Syrupy Spirals of Joy

Old Famous Jalebi Wala has been around since 1884, making it one of Delhi’s most historic sweet shops. Their jalebis are fried in pure desi ghee and then soaked in sugar syrup, resulting in a crispy, syrupy delight that has remained unchanged for over a century.

A must-try combination here is jalebi with rabri, where the richness of thickened milk complements the syrupy sweetness of the jalebis. Besides sweets, the shop also serves samosas, making it an ideal snack stop during iftar.

Despite its tiny size, this establishment holds a big place in Delhi’s food history and is a must-visit for those looking to end their Ramadan feast on a high note.

Where: Dariba Kalan, Chandni Chowk

Nearest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line)

Must-Try: Jalebi, Rabri, Samosas