Delhi is said to be the cultural hub in India. With people from different parts of the states settling in the capital city, there has been a huge intermingling of cultures and cuisines. The demand and interest in trying diverse regional cuisines of India is on the rise along with international flavours. While experimentation and fusion food is always looked at with a curious eye, the real essence of any cuisine lies in its authentic taste. The traditional method of cooking a particular dish and the age-old stories associated with those add a certain cultural richness to the entire experience.
My recent trip to Udaipur was a huge food spree. I ended up trying most of the authentic dishes of Rajasthani cuisine from small shops and street stalls. However, the taste lingered on after several days of vacation. This is when I started keeping an eye for Rajasthani places in the capital. To my surprise, I found a host of them, serving the most authentic delicacies of the region.
If you’re looking to try out something new this week, here are some of the places we would recommend you to visit in Delhi-NCR.
1. Ghoomar
Located in the bustling lanes of Connaught Place, this restaurant serves pure vegetarian Rajasthani food. Along with the smell of authentic flavours, the wooden interiors add to the rustic feel of the place. Feast on their huge Rajasthani thalis that offer a variety of subzis like Rajwadi Paneer, Gatte ki subzi, Ker sangri and more.
Source: Ghoomar Thali/Instagram
Where: K-43, 1st Floor, Opposite PVR Plaza, CP
Cost For Two: INR 800
2. Udaipuri
Another pick for a vegetarian Rajasthani experience is Udaipuri. Named after the Rajasthani City Of Lakes, this restaurant offers vegan options too. From multigrain rolls to ghee-free dals, subzis and kebabs, you can gorge on their curated healthy menu without worry. The dessert section opens up for you with Shahi tukda, Rajasthani barfi and more.
Where: Plot 55, Saraswati Kunj, Golf Course Road, Sector 53, Gurugram
Cost For Two: INR 700
3. Suruchi
While you might be tempted to try their Punjabi and South Indian menu, it is the Rajasthani thali that you shouldn’t miss out on. Unlimited refills of gatte ki subzi, dal baat churma and gulab jamuns, do we need to say any more?
Where: 15-A/56, Ajmal Khan Road, Opposite Roopak Store, Karol Bagh (They have another outlet in Ghaziabad)
Cost For Two: INR 700
4. Ranisa
Spot this other restaurant in Connaught Place bubbling with Rajasthani vibes, right from the décor and ambience to the music and food. One look at the menu and Ranisa might become your next favourite for Rajasthani cuisine. Also, if you come back without trying Dal Banjara, you need to go back.
Source: Rajasthani Veg Thali Restaurant/Instagram
Where: P14/90, Block P, Near Shivaji Stadium, CP
Cost For Two: INR 600
5. Gaon
Rightly named as Gaon, this place has all the rustic vibes of a remote village. The Rajasthani-style chairs and tables with aesthetic carvings and hay sheds overhead, Gaon is where you will get everything from the juicy chicken bano kebabs to Rajasthani kadhi, gatte ki subzi and malpua.
Source: Gaon Restaurants/Instagram
Where: 7, Ground Floor, Opposite Axis Bank Shivalik Road, Block C, Malviya Nagar
Cost For Two: INR 800
