best Best North Indian restaurants in delhi

This gastronomic institution - known as the 'inventor'of the Butter Chicken and Tandoori Chicken - is as old as free India, but it seems to be showing no signs of greying. The service is quick and the food as delicious as ever. It's no wonder that the place, once patronised by the likes of Jawaharlal Nehru, continues to feature on the itineraries of visiting dignitaries.

Where: 3704, Netaji Subhash Marg, Daryaganj, Delhi; 23273661; www.motimahal1947.com
Cuisine: Mughlai/North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 12.30 am Cost: R 800

This Moti Mahal is one of a chain of restaurants and an off-shoot of the 'original'in Daryaganj. Their Butter Chicken is definitely a must-try on the menu. The paneer dishes are also worth a shot. Also recommended are the Pindi Chana Masala, melt-in-the-mouth Murg Malai Kebab and Kalmi Kebab. Try the Moong Dal Halwa or the Gulab Jamun and you would be asking for more.

Where: E-31-32, South Extension-II, New Delhi; 9311010879; www.motimahaldeluxe.com
Cuisine: Mughlai/North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost: R 800

Bukhara needs no introduction. The restaurant, declared as one of the best in the world by The Restaurant Magazine, has gained an almost legendary status for its Indian cuisine, focusing on the Northwest Frontier Province region. Try the kebabs and the roast lamb and the Dal Bukhara. It is cooked over slow coal fires for eighteen hours, and leaves an everlasting taste.

Where: ITC Maurya, SP Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi; 26112233; www.itcwelcomgroup.in
Cuisine: North-west Frontier Timings: 12.30 pm - 2.45 pm & 7 pm - 11.45 pm
Cost: R 4500

Punjabi By Nature became popular as it was the first place to invent Vodka Golgappas. The restaurant has also introduced new items such as Tandoori Quail, Drunken Prawns and Sharabi Naan. The portions are huge, so it is a good idea to consult the ever-helpful wait staff before you order. Round off a meal with flambeed Gulab Jamun.

Where: 11, Basant Lok Complex, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi; 41516666-68; www.punjabibynature.in
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12:30 pm - 11 pm
Cost: R 1500

This popular restaurant has re-invented itself recently. The USP is the handpicked wine-list to ensure the best pairings with Indian cuisine. The place also boasts an Indian Bread Bar Counter. Must-trys include Tandoori Pomfret and Spicy Gatta Curry. The Paan Kulfi provides a fitting end to a satisfying meal, and the Banta bottles a quirky but satisfying accompaniment.

Where: The Lalit, Barakhamba Avenue, Connaught Place, New Delhi; 44447777; www.thelalit.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12.30 pm - 12 am
Cost: R 2000

E ver wondered what the Nawabs of Awadh had for dinner? At Dum Pukht, you are transported to that royal world and its distinct culinary traditions. The result is delicately spiced fare packed with flavour. The favourites here are the Kakori Kebab, Dum Ki Khumb, Baingan Mirch Ka Salan, and the exquisite Raan-e-Dum Pukht. The restaurant is currently renovation

Where: ITC Maurya, SP Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi; 2611 2233; www.itcwelcomgroup.in
Cuisine: Awadhi Timings: 7:30pm to 12.45am
Cost: R 3500

T his is exactly where spice meets real life and sends you to a different universe of seasonings, flavours and aromas. The emphasis is on light, healthy and traditional food, served amidst an elegant setup. Lending extra spice to the culinary experience here is the breads trolley that makes the round of the restaurant, making rotis in front of you. The Bailey's Coffee Kulfi makes for a delicious dessert.

Where: Taj Palace Hotel, 2, SP Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi; 26110202; www.tajhotels.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12.30 pm - 11.45 pm
Cost: R 3500

It's unpretentious, with a modest decor and as Punjabi as the name suggests. Apart from the ubiquitous Butter Chicken and the array of kebabs, a must-try from the menu is the rich Mutton Korma with rumali roti or butter naan. For vegetarians, the Pindi Chana, Tawa Kebab and Paneer Peshawri are must-trys. The place is bustling at nights. A meal for two is reasonable, portions are generous and service quick.

Where: 16, Pandara Road Market, Pandara Road, New Delhi; 23387932
Cuisine: North Indian, Chinese Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost: R 1000 Facilities:

With more than half a century under its belt, this place continues to be popular among Delhiites looking for some asli Punjab da khaana. Enjoy your mocktail or lassi while you ponder over what to order. Highly recommended is the chef's special Murgh Gulati Bemisaal. The prices are easy on your pocket and you wouldn't mind stepping into this eatery very often.

Where: 6, Pandara Road Market, New Delhi; 23782949; www.gulatirestaurant.in
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost: R 800

Jiggs Kalra has scored a huge hit with Punjab Grill that brings the flavours of undivided Punjab - Lahore, Rawalpindi, Amritsar, Multan and Patiala - under one roof. For starters, the Champ Taajdaar is a must try. Special attention is paid to the cuts of the meat, so you can expect your dum-cooked biryani to have just the lamb's shoulders.

Where: 2nd floor, Select Citywalk mall, District Centre, Saket, New Delhi; 41572977
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 11.30 pm
Cost: R 1800

The first thing you wonder as you enter Pirates of Grill is why everyone is wearing strange red bandanas, and then you get it - it's the 'pirates'thing, of course. The USP of this new all-day dining restaurant in Rajouri Garden is the barbeque, and each tabletop comes with its own grill. There's valet service to make matters easy on arrival and the ambience inside is pleasant. The restaurant serves fixed-charges buffet, with the menu changing almost every day. From the starters, non vegetarians can try the superb Kali Mirch Chicken. For vegetarians, the Tandoori Mushroom is the one to go for. For the main course, the Biryani and Rogan Josh are not be missed. The dessert spread is another highlight of the restaurant, with cheesecake and chocolate mousse vying for the top spot and the Moong Dal halwa giving them b competition, though. With Pirates of Grill, West Delhi has a promising North Indian restaurant to boast about.

Where: C-12, Vishal Enclave, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi; 45034444
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12.30 pm - 3 pm & 7.30 pm - 11 pm
Cost: R 1200

he Great Kabab Factory, or TGKF as this chain of outlets is more popularly known, is a veritable haven for kebab lovers. Every day, the kitchen prepares six different kinds of kebabs apart from curries, breads, and a biryani. This is one place where vegetarian dishes also win hands down. Try their Dal Kebabs, Potato Kebabs and Paneer Tikkas. The best part is that one can order unlimited helpings of everything.

Where: Hotel Radisson, National Highway 8, Mahipalpur; 26779191; www.radisson.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12.30 pm - 3 pm & 7.30 pm - 11 pm
Cost: R 2000

Every effort has been made to recreate a roadside dhaba tucked along the national highways. The trademark truck, kitschy decor, and an ambience full of colour and hullabaloo go perfectly with the food. The highlights of the menu are Masala Prawns, Tandoori Pineapple ki Chaat and Balti Meat. If you yearn for Yellow Dal and Rice, Dhaba is one of the few places that does it right. The service is efficient and comes with a smile.

Where: The Claridges, 12 Aurangzeb Road, New Delhi; 41335082; www.claridges.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 2.30 pm & 7.30 pm - 11.30 pm
Cost: R 3000

This renowned institution has been in business since 1913. While the restaurant has several outlets now, the original one in Jama Masjid holds a charm of its own. The Burrah Kebabs are undoubtedly the stars of the show. The Ishtoo, Paaya, Kormas, Shammi Kebabs, and Brain Curry are also heavenly. Finish off your meal with a creamy Firni, and you will probably be stuffed for a week.

Where: 16, Gali Kebabian, Jama Masjid, Delhi; 23264981; www.karims.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 7am - 3.30 pm & 6 pm - 11 pm
Cost: R 600

Situated inside Deer Park, next to the historic Hauz Khas Village, it's Park Balluchi's mesmerising setting that captivates the heart. But that's not the only draw, the extensive menu also beckons you. Try the Murg Potli before moving on to Samundri Sher. There's a decent selection of alcohol to wash down all the food. With efficient service, hearty fare and a dramatic setting, it is no wonder that Delhiites flock to this place.

Where: B 1, Deer Park, Aurobindo Place Market, Hauz Khas, New Delhi; www.parkballuchi.com
Cuisine: North-west Frontier Timings: 12pm-12am
Cost: R 1500

If Punjabi and North Indian food is your idea of a great gastronomic adventure, Pind Balluchi might just hit the bull's eye for you. This place is packed even a little ahead of the lunch hour on a weekday. The staff is prompt and helpful the decor interesting with a queer blend of quintessential Punjabi food with a Rajasthani setting. Try the Dahi De Kebab for starters. For the main course, opt for Fish Curry and Mutton Biryani. For dessert try their special Gajar Ka Halwa.

Where: N 9, Main Market, South Extension, New Delhi; 41408141; www.pindballuchi.com
Cuisine: North Indian/Punjabi Timings: 11.30 am - 11.30 pm
Cost: R 1200

T he concept is traditional Indian food served in a modern, mall-friendly, young-at-heart settings. The service is informed and articulate. Start off with their excellent Papri Chaat, that can be the envy of a Chandni Chowk chaat-wallah. The magic continues with the Matarwali Tikkis and Tandoori Prawns. The intensely spicy Mirchi ka Salan is one of Orange Hara's best offerings. A meal at this restaurant is certainly great value for money.

Where: T.D.I. Paragon Mall, Ground Floor, Rajouri Garden, Delhi; www.orangehara.com
Cuisine: North Indian Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost: R 1000