6 Vintage Restaurants In Delhi And What You Must Order

Before cloud kitchens, viral cafes, and menus, there were these OG legends that made people from all over the world swoon over them. From butter chicken that made history to filter coffee that’s older than you, these iconic Delhi spots have been dishing out flavour bombs since forever. So if you’re craving a bite of the good ol’ days, here are 6 vintage restaurants and their must-order dishes that are still serving it hot.

1. Karims - Mutton Nihari With Khameeri Roti

Tucked in the bustling lanes of Jama Masjid is the legendary Karim's, serving heartwarming dishes since 1913. The Mutton Nihari is the real MVP here — rich, slow-cooked, and best devoured with their signature Khameeri Roti. This combo isn’t just a meal, it’s the heart and soul of Delhi itself!

Where | Karim’s - 16, Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid
Timings | 9 AM - 1 AM
Call Them | +91 9650 703 342
Meal For Two | Rs 1,600
Skim Through Their Insta Feed | https://www.instagram.com/_karims_/

2. Moti Mahal - Butter Chicken With Tandoori Roti

Moti Mahal ka butter chicken nahi khaya toh kya khaya? This is probably what you would hear if you say you’ve never been to this food joint. Nestled in the streets of Daryaganj, Moti Mahal has stood strong since 1947. The Butter Chicken here is an emotion, full of cream, tangy and sweet flavour — pair it with hot Tandoori Roti for full main-character mode. It's messy, indulgent, and 100% worth the extra napkin. If you haven’t eaten here, are you even a Dilliwala?

Where | Moti Mahal - 3704, Netaji Subhash Marg, Old Dariya Ganj, Daryaganj
Timings | 11:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Call Them | +91 9013 525 539
Meal For Two | Rs 1,000
Skim Through Their Insta Feed | https://www.instagram.com/moti_mahal_daryaganj/

3. United Coffee House - Keema Samosa With Cold Coffee

Picture Credit : YS Bedi

Opened in 1942 in Connaught Place, United Coffee House is where old-school elegance meets classic flavours. When at United Coffee House, you must try their Keema Samosa! This elite snack is Their keema samosa is an elite snack you have to try. It’s crispy, spicy, and hella satisfying. Pair it with their thick, strong cold coffee and you’ve got yourself a meal that your taste buds will thank you! .

Where | United Coffee House - Rajiv Chowk, E-15, Block E, Connaught Place
Timings | 10 AM - 11:45 PM
Call Them | +91 11 2341 1697
Meal For Two | Rs 4,500
Skim Through Their Insta Feed | https://www.instagram.com/unitedcoffeehouse/

4. Kwality Restaurant - Pind Chole with Bhature

Kwality Restaurant has been serving quality food since 1940 at Hanuman Road CP. Stepping into Kwality feels like walking into an elevated version of your grandma’s rustic dining room. Their Pindi Chole is a spicy hug in a bowl, and when teamed with hot, fluffy Bhature? We.are.sat. This is just one of the many comfort foods of every Delhiite that just slaps!

Where | Kwality Restaurant - No.7, Regal Building, Sansad Marg, Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place
Timings | 12 PM - 11 PM
Call Them | +91 8800 499 928
Meal For Two | Rs 2,000
Skim Through Their Insta Feed | https://www.instagram.com/kwalitydelhi/

5. Embassy Restaurant - Dal Meat With Butter Naan

Picture Credit : Sharaschandra Sn

If you're looking for an old school vintage charm in Delhi then you gotta head to Embassy Restaurant. Established in 1948 in Connaught Place, this gem has been serving hearty meals to our grandparents and now to us! Their Dal Meat is an underrated legend with lentils slow-cooked with tender chunks of mutton and scooped up with soft, Butter Naan. This dish is a warm hug for your soul and your slightly overworked stomach.

Where | Embassy Restaurant - 11 D, D Block, Connaught Place
Timings | 12:30 PM - 11 PM
Call Them | +91 11 2341 6434
Meal For Two | Rs 2,500
Skim Through Their Insta Feed | https://www.instagram.com/theembassyindia/

6. India Coffee House - Masala Dosa With Filter Coffee

Picture Credit : Nischl Nahata

This next place is minimalist and nostalgic. India Coffee House at Baba Khadak Singh Marg, has been a fan favourite since 1957. It’s giving DU Canteen but the food is much better quality! The Masala Dosa here is the crispy hero you need, served with chutneys that hit right. The real star is their strong AF Filter Coffee that’ll definitely revive your soul.

Where | India Coffee House - Babakharak Singh Marg, Mohansingh Place 2nd floor, Baba Kharak Singh Rd
Timings | 9 AM - 9 PM
Call Them | +91 11 2334 2994
Meal For Two | Rs 500

So, which of these iconic places are you headed to first?