Delhi is synonymous with good food. Anyone who has ever visited this city, hasn’t gone back without tasting the delicious and fragrant kebabs that are freshly cooked round the clock in the bustling lanes of Purani Dilli. The streets overlooking the Jama Masjid are usually jam-packed by the evening, as Delhiites queue up to their favourite kebab outlet to enjoy authentic kebabs including Shammi Kebab, Seekh Kebab, Galouti Kebab, Khameeri Roti and more.
The origin of kebabs is a debated one. According to some, kebabs aren’t a foreign gift to India as many of our ancient texts have the mention of large pieces of meat being roasted on skewers. However, there are also stories of a different place of origin of kebabs. Many believe that dish comes from Turkey, where soldiers grilled freshly hunted animal meat skewered on their swords over fire.
Regardless of its history, kebabs have become a delicacy with everyone trying to barbecue the perfect kebab for a weekend dinner party! However, if like many others, you don’t have the time to replicate recipes, here’s a guide to the best places to grab a bite of succulent kebabs in Delhi:
1. Karim’s
One of the oldest restaurants to exist to date near the Jama Masjid, Karim’s was established in 1913. The forefathers of the owners are said to have worked in royal kitchens of Mughal emperors. Skilled in the art of the Mughlai cuisine, chefs at the eatery have learnt the secrets of the Shahi Dastar-Khwan and Karim’s today has become the go-to joint for every foodie to eat freshly made juicy kebabs from. Must-try items at the outlet include the Shammi Kebab and Mutton Seekh Kebab.
Address: Karim’s, 16 Matia Mahal Bazar, near Jama Masjid, Jama Masjid, New Delhi - 110006
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:30 AM
Meal for two: ₹700 (approx)
2. Al-Jawahar
Founded in 1948, Al-Jawahar is visited by politicians and celebrities alike. Currently, the fourth generation of owners at the eatery are taking the legacy of their great grandfather forward and are serving traditional and conventional kebabs to many. Specials on the menu include Chicken Burra and Mutton Nahari.
Address: Al-Jawahar, Jama Masjid Brand 8, near Matia Mahal Road, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, New Delhi - 110006
Timings: 1pm to 11pm
Meal for two: ₹500 (approx)
3. Abdul Ghani Qureshi Kabab Corner
The Qureshis of the Abdul Ghani Qureshi Kabab Corner fame have been into the business of serving kebabs for more than seven decades now. Just like many other outlets near them, the Qureshi family has a legacy of serving authentic kebabs. It all started with their forefathers who passed on the art of making kebabs to their children. The eatery is currently managed by the owner’s five sons. The sons claim that their grandfather and father used to sell kebabs in Old Delhi and had many loyal customers to their credit. Chicken Tikka, Mutton Seekh and Chicken Seekh are among the must-try items at the restaurant.
Address: Abdul Ghani Qureshi Kabab Corner, opposite Gate 1, Jama Masjid, New Delhi - 110006
Timings: 5pm to 12am
Meal for two: ₹400 (approx)
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