Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a paradise for food lovers. From spicy street food to hearty home-cooked meals, the city offers a culinary journey like no other. But if you’re traveling on a budget, finding affordable yet delicious food can be a challenge.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal experiences and expert advice on the best budget food options in Delhi. Whether you’re craving chaat, parathas, or biryani, these places will satisfy your taste buds without burning a hole in your pocket. Let’s dive in!
Why Delhi is a Food Lover’s Paradise
Before we explore the list, let’s understand why Delhi stands out as a food destination:
- Diverse Cuisine:
Delhi’s food scene reflects its multicultural heritage, offering everything from Mughlai delicacies to Punjabi comfort food. - Affordable Prices:
Even the most famous eateries in Delhi serve mouthwatering dishes at budget-friendly prices. - Street Food Culture:
The city’s vibrant street food culture is legendary, with vendors serving fresh, flavorful snacks at every corner. - Hidden Gems:
Beyond the popular spots, Delhi is home to countless small eateries and dhabas that locals swear by.
Personal Story: During one of my trips to Delhi, I stumbled upon a tiny paratha shop in Chandni Chowk. For just ₹50, I enjoyed the flakiest, spiciest paratha I’ve ever had. It was an experience I’ll never forget!
Top 10 Places for Budget Food in Delhi
Here’s a curated list of the best places to eat cheap and tasty meals in Delhi. Each spot has been selected based on affordability, taste, hygiene, and popularity among locals and tourists alike.
1. Paranthe Wali Gali – Chandni Chowk
Location: Near Jama Masjid, Old Delhi
Why Visit Here?
This iconic lane is famous for its variety of stuffed parathas, ranging from classic aloo (potato) to unique flavors like khoya (milk solids).
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Paratha
- Paneer Paratha
- Mooli Paratha
Price Range: ₹50–₹150 per plate
Guest Review Highlight:
“The parathas are crispy, flavorful, and served with generous amounts of butter!” – Ramesh K., India
Reference:
Paranthe Wali Gali TripAdvisor Reviews
2. Karim’s – Jama Masjid
Location: Opposite Jama Masjid, Old Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Karim’s is a legendary restaurant known for its rich Mughlai cuisine. It’s perfect for indulging in kebabs, biryanis, and curries.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mutton Kebab
- Chicken Biryani
- Nihari
Price Range: ₹200–₹500 per meal
Guest Review Highlight:
“The biryani is aromatic, and the kebabs melt in your mouth!” – Anjali K., India
Reference:
3. Nathu’s Sweets – Bengali Market
Location: Bengali Market, Central Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Nathu’s is a favorite among locals for its authentic Indian sweets and snacks. It’s also a great place to try Delhi’s famous rabri falooda.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Rabri Falooda
- Samosas
- Gulab Jamun
Price Range: ₹50–₹200 per item
Guest Review Highlight:
“The rabri falooda is creamy, sweet, and utterly delightful!” – Priya S., India
Reference:
4. Haldiram’s – Multiple Locations
Location: Available across Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Haldiram’s is a chain restaurant offering vegetarian snacks, sweets, and thalis at affordable prices. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Tikki Chaat
- Rajma Chawal
- Jalebi
Price Range: ₹100–₹300 per meal
Guest Review Highlight:
“Great for vegetarians! The rajma chawal is comforting and filling.” – Emma L., UK
Reference:
5. BTW (By the Way) – Connaught Place
Location: Near Connaught Place, Central Delhi
Why Visit Here?
BTW is a trendy café offering a mix of Indian and international dishes. It’s a great place to grab a sandwich, burger, or coffee.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Grilled Sandwich
- Veggie Burger
- Cold Coffee
Price Range: ₹150–₹350 per meal
Guest Review Highlight:
“The sandwiches are fresh, and the ambiance is cozy!” – Rohit K., India
Reference:
6. Amritsari Kulcha – Greater Kailash
Location: Near Greater Kailash Market, South Delhi
Why Visit Here?
This small eatery specializes in Amritsari kulchas, which are soft, buttery, and stuffed with delicious fillings.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Kulcha
- Paneer Kulcha
- Chole Bhature
Price Range: ₹80–₹200 per plate
Guest Review Highlight:
“The kulchas are heavenly, especially when paired with chole!” – David W., USA
Reference:
Amritsari Kulcha TripAdvisor Reviews
7. Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar – Lajpat Nagar
Location: Near Lajpat Nagar Market, South Delhi
Why Visit Here?
This roadside stall is famous for its chaat items, including golgappas, papdi chaat, and dahi bhalla.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Papdi Chaat
- Golgappas
- Aloo Tikki
Price Range: ₹30–₹100 per plate
Guest Review Highlight:
“The golgappas are tangy, spicy, and absolutely addictive!” – Lisa G., USA
Reference:
Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar Google Reviews
8. Al Jawahar – Jama Masjid
Location: Opposite Jama Masjid, Old Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Al Jawahar is another gem in Old Delhi, known for its authentic Mughlai and North Indian dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Butter Chicken
- Seekh Kebab
- Roomali Roti
Price Range: ₹250–₹600 per meal
Guest Review Highlight:
“The butter chicken is rich, creamy, and pairs perfectly with roomali roti!” – Sarah T., UK
Reference:
9. Bikanervala – Multiple Locations
Location: Available across Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Bikanervala is a popular chain offering a wide range of Indian snacks, sweets, and thalis. It’s a reliable option for vegetarians.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Kachori
- Chole Bhature
- Malai Lassi
Price Range: ₹100–₹300 per meal
Guest Review Highlight:
“The kachoris are crispy, and the malai lassi is refreshing!” – Rajiv P., India
Reference:
10. Wenger’s – Connaught Place
Location: Near Connaught Place, Central Delhi
Why Visit Here?
Wenger’s is a historic bakery and café known for its cakes, pastries, and light meals. It’s perfect for a quick bite or dessert.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Fruit Cake
- Cheese Sandwich
- Chocolate Pastry
Price Range: ₹150–₹400 per item
Guest Review Highlight:
“The fruit cake is moist, and the cheese sandwich is a classic!” – Anjali K., India
Reference:
How to Choose the Right Food Spot for You
Choosing the perfect food spot depends on your preferences and needs. Here’s a quick checklist:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Budget | Set a limit for each meal |
| Location | Proximity to tourist attractions or markets |
| Hygiene | Check cleanliness and reviews online |
| Variety | Look for vegetarian, vegan, or non-veg options |
| Ambiance | Decide if you prefer casual or cozy settings |
Tips for Eating on a Budget in Delhi
- Explore Local Markets: Areas like Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar, and Sarojini Nagar are great for affordable food.
- Try Street Food Safely: Stick to busy stalls where food is prepared fresh and served hot.
- Use Food Delivery Apps: Platforms like Zomato and Swiggy often offer discounts and deals.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals know the hidden gems better than anyone else.
FAQ Section
Q1. What is the best time to visit Delhi for food tourism?
The best time is during winter (October to February) when the weather is pleasant, and food festivals are common.
Q2. Is street food in Delhi safe to eat?
Yes, if you choose busy stalls with high turnover, the food is usually safe and hygienic.
Q3. What is the average cost of a budget meal in Delhi?
A budget meal typically costs between ₹50 and ₹300, depending on the location and type of food.
Q4. Are there vegetarian-only restaurants in Delhi?
Yes, many restaurants like Haldiram’s and Bikanervala are entirely vegetarian.