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Formal or fancy, the best restaurants in New Delhi come in all shapes and sizes. Starting from an impressive street food scene to the most luxurious hotels, hidden food gems await in every corner of the city. Secret New Delhi has compiled a list of five places, including a legendary cafe and top-tier Japanese spot, for you to discover.
1. Cafe Lota
Defined as “a uniquely crafted ethno-contemporary experience of lesser-known regional Indian cuisine“, Cafe Lota is an absolute must-try in New Delhi. As well as traditional Indian food, you’ll find this popular cafe inside the National Crafts Museum meaning the nation’s tradition of crafts can be appreciated at the same time. Firstly, take your pick from a variety of hot and cold beverages, from artisanal coffee to specialty tea. And then have your fill of delicious patties, lentil cake, dumplings, masala, and more.
📍 Gate No. 2, National Crafts Museum, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
2. Indian Accent
A restaurant lauded by the likes of Condé Nast Traveler and India Today, Indian Accent certainly deserves to be on a list of some of the best restaurants in the city. While this elegant spot offers a dining experience inspired by tradition it isn’t afraid to put an inventive twist on Indian cuisine. Chef Manish Mehrotra (Culinary Director) and Chef Shantanu Mehrotra (Executive Chef) have brought Indian Accent in a creative direction that leads to dishes such as 100-layer paneer and chicken tikka meatballs.
Select the tasting menu, four-course lunch menu, or go a la carte menu at Indian Accent. Whatever kind of meal you’re looking for, you won’t want to miss out on trying a spot that was listed on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
📍 The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, 110003
3. Rajinder De Dhaba
Rajinder De Dhaba has been making a name for itself since 1968. Located in the Safdarjung Enclave Market, this famous stall turned iconic and large food joint continues to delight hungry customers. Look for the red neon sign and get ready to taste some seriously good food. Fried chicken, tandoori cuisine, and chicken momos—sounds like heaven. Wherever your culinary adventures are taking you in New Delhi, make sure you stop by this iconic family restaurant for a truly flavourful experience.
📍 AB-14B, Nauroji Nagar Marg, opposite Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi
4. Olive Bar and Kitchen
Let’s forget about the extraordinary building in which Olive Bar and Kitchen is set just for a second, although it’s hard to resist mentioning the Mediterranean-style al fresco space…and let’s focus on the food. While there are A LOT of quality places to try Indian food in New Delhi, sometimes it’s nice to have a bit of variety. Olive Bar and Kitchen serves European cuisine, like Roman-style pizza and French Pissaladière.
With restaurants in Mumbai, New Delhi, and Goa, and being named one of the Top 50 Restaurants 2018, it’s no wonder Olive Bar and Kitchen makes the cut.
📍 Mile 6, One Style, 8, Kalka Das Marg, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi
5. Megu
And continuing to shake things up with international influences, Megu is a spectacular Japanese restaurant. Found at The Leela Palace, a five-star hotel, it’s one of the best Japanese restaurants in New Delhi. Absorb the luxury while tasting authentic flavours in a private dining room or at the sushi bar. From the yellowtail carpaccio to spicy tuna and crispy asparagus, there’s plenty to love and savour about Megu.