How to Eat Like a Local in Delhi: A Guide to Regional Cuisine and Dining Customs

Delhi is a city with a rich and diverse culinary culture, influenced by its long history and multicultural population. From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Delhi. If you want to eat like a local, here is a guide to the regional cuisine and dining customs of Delhi:

Delhi’s cuisine is a blend of North Indian and Mughlai influences. Some of the most popular dishes include:

Biryani: A rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables and spices.
Butter chicken: Chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a creamy tomato sauce.
Tandoori chicken: Chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a clay oven.
Chole bhature: Chickpeas cooked in a spicy gravy, served with fried bread.
Chaat: A savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, and chutneys.
Pani puri: A hollow puri (fried bread) filled with a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices, and served with a tangy tamarind water.

Here are a few dining customs to keep in mind when eating in Delhi:

Food is eaten with the right hand. The left hand is considered to be unclean.
It is polite to finish all of your food. If you cannot finish your food, it is better to leave it on your plate than to waste it.
It is customary to share food. Many dishes in Delhi are meant to be shared among family and friends.
It is polite to ask for permission before taking food from someone else’s plate.
Tipping is not customary in Delhi. However, if you are happy with the service, you can tip the waiter or waitress 10-15%.

Here are a few recommendations for places to eat in Delhi:

Street food stalls: Street food is a great way to experience the local cuisine at an affordable price. Some of the best street food stalls in Delhi can be found in the Chandni Chowk market and the Old Delhi area.
Dhabas: Dhabas are roadside restaurants that serve simple, home-cooked food. They are a great place to try traditional North Indian dishes.
Fine dining restaurants: Delhi also has a number of fine dining restaurants that serve modern Indian cuisine. These restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience, but they can be quite expensive.

Here are a few tips for eating like a local in Delhi:

Be adventurous. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes. Delhi’s cuisine has something to offer everyone.
Eat at local restaurants. Avoid tourist traps and eat at restaurants where the locals eat. You’ll get a more authentic dining experience and the food will be better.
Be prepared for spice. Delhi’s cuisine is known for its bold flavors. If you’re not used to spicy food, start with mild dishes and gradually work your way up to the hotter ones.
Don’t forget to drink chai. Chai is a sweet tea that is popular all over India. It’s the perfect way to end a meal or to simply take a break from exploring the city.