Holiday Crowds Bring Chandni Chowk Back to Life
The arrival of summer holidays has filled Delhi with travellers, drawing visitors not just from various Indian states but from abroad as well. That surge is most visible in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk, where shoppers and food lovers are once again jostling through the lanes. People are travelling long distances as much for the street food as for the shopping. Delhi has always been known for its cuisine, and Chandni Chowk is widely regarded as the very heart of that flavour. Its chaat, kachori, lassi, kulfi and other dishes have earned a name across the country for their distinctive taste. So if you have come to Delhi, or are planning to, do not skip a taste of the market's most famous bites.
Dahi Bhalle and Kachori, a Classic Pairing
When it comes to dahi bhalle in Chandni Chowk, the name Natraj Dahi Bhalla is impossible to leave out. Located in the main market, this shop has remained a favourite for years. Alongside the dahi bhalle, its chaat and golgappe are hugely popular too, and people come from far and wide to try them. Right nearby sits Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, a fine choice for kachori lovers. This shop's kachori is known for its special taste and its spicy, masaladar vegetable filling, which is exactly why a crowd of customers is always gathered there.
Lassi, Momos and a Kulfi That Melts on the Tongue
If you want to try something a little different, head to Jain Snacks Corner near the Chandni Chowk metro station. Apart from dahi wale momo, it serves a special lassi and cold drink made with dry fruits. The beverages, prepared with almonds, pistachios, cashews and walnuts, are a big hit with visitors. For those with a sweet tooth, the famous Kuremal Kulfi of Chandni Chowk is a must-try. It is one of the oldest and most renowned kulfi shops here, offering several varieties from dry fruit kulfi to sugar-free kulfi. The taste is such that it dissolves the moment it touches your tongue.
Easy on the Pocket, Big on Flavour
Chandni Chowk has no shortage of large, expensive restaurants, but its real draw has always been the street food. Serving delicious food at low prices is what defines this market. When you visit, do not forget to sample the dahi bhalle, kachori, chaat, rabdi lassi, kulfi and halwa. All these dishes are pocket-friendly and celebrated for their outstanding flavour. That is perhaps why Chandni Chowk still sits right at the top of the food list for every tourist who comes to Delhi.
