10 Best Restaurants in New Delhi, India

New Delhi's top restaurants offer you an unforgettable culinary journey through India's rich heritage and modern innovations. You'll find world-renowned establishments like Indian Accent, where Chef Manish Mehrotra crafts contemporary Indian cuisine, and Bukhara, famous for its authentic North Western Frontier dishes. Don't miss Dum Pukt's legendary Awadhi cuisine or Baoshuan's elevated Chinese dining experience. The city's finest also include Pluck's modern Indian fare, Lodi's Mediterranean fusion, and the historic flavors of Gulati, Yauatcha, and Moti Mahal. Each restaurant's unique atmosphere and signature dishes tell a deeper story of Delhi's gastronomic excellence.

Key Takeaways

• Indian Accent leads New Delhi's fine dining scene, ranking #1 by Condé Nast Traveller with innovative Indian cuisine and a six-course tasting menu.
• Bukhara at ITC Maurya offers legendary North Western Frontier cuisine, famous for Dal Bukhara and hosting international dignitaries since 1977.
• Dum Pukt specializes in authentic Awadhi cuisine with signature dishes like kakori kebabs and dum-cooked mutton biryani in Lucknowi-styled settings.
• Baoshuan presents modern Chinese cuisine and dim sum crafted under Michelin-starred chef Andrew Wong atop The Oberoi.
• Moti Mahal, established in 1947, is historically significant for creating iconic dishes like Butter Chicken and Tandoori Chicken.

Indian Accent

Indian Accent, nestled within The Lodhi hotel on Lodhi Road in New Delhi, stands as India's premier dining destination, consistently ranked as the country's number one restaurant by prestigious publications like Condé Nast Traveller and La Liste.

Under the culinary direction of Chef Manish Mehrotra and Executive Chef Shantanu Mehrotra, the restaurant crafts an inventive Indian cuisine that masterfully blends global ingredients and techniques with traditional Indian flavors. The restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence is reflected in Executive Chef Shantanu Mehrotra's two decades of experience in the industry. One of their signature dishes, the Puchkas with Calcutta demonstrates their innovative take on traditional street food.

The restaurant offers both an à la carte menu and an exquisite six-course Chef's Tasting menu, complemented by an extensive wine selection from India and around the world.

For those seeking exclusive dining experiences, Indian Accent provides private dining rooms accommodating 10 to 30 guests, along with professional catering and event services for off-site functions.

The restaurant's reputation has recently weathered a controversy in September 2024 when ethical concerns were raised regarding ingredient substitution, specifically involving morels and button mushrooms.

Despite this challenge, Indian Accent maintains its prestigious position on both Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list (since 2013) and the World's 50 Best Restaurants list of 2024.

The restaurant has also expanded its presence beyond New Delhi, with successful outposts in New York City and Mumbai, cementing its status as a global culinary destination.

Address: The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, 110003

Hours: Open daily; Lunch 12 noon – 2:45 pm; Dinner First Seating 6:45 pm – 9:00 pm, Second Seating 9:45 pm – 12:00 am

Phone: +911166175151

Bukhara

Bukhara, nestled within the prestigious ITC Maurya in New Delhi's Diplomatic Enclave, stands as one of India's most celebrated fine dining establishments since 1977. This iconic restaurant specializes in North Western Frontier cuisine, serving authentic kebabs and tandoori dishes in a rustic yet elegant setting characterized by stone walls, dark wood beams, and traditional Indian rugs. The open kitchen adds to the immersive dining experience, allowing guests to witness the culinary mastery firsthand. The restaurant's rich heritage of 5,000 years is reflected in every aspect of its culinary presentation and traditional cooking methods.

The restaurant's signature dishes include the legendary Dal Bukhara, a black lentil and tomato preparation that simmers for 24 hours, the succulent Sikandari Raan, and the delicate Murgh Malai Kebab. In keeping with traditional dining customs, Bukhara serves its meals without cutlery, encouraging guests to eat with their hands for an authentic frontier dining experience. The restaurant offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian fixed menu options, priced at Rs. 4500 and Rs. 5000 respectively.

Bukhara's reputation extends far beyond India's borders, having hosted an impressive roster of global personalities including U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and sports icons Roger Federer and Sachin Tendulkar. Under Executive Chef J.P. Singh's leadership, the restaurant has maintained its position among San Pellegrino's top 50 Asian eateries while preserving its original menu for decades, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to traditional flavors and techniques. All diners are provided with large protective bibs to ensure a comfortable and worry-free dining experience.

Address: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India

Hours: Daily, Lunch: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Dinner: 7 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Phone: +91 11 2611 2233

Dum Pukt

Located in the prestigious ITC Maurya hotel in New Delhi's Diplomatic Enclave, Dum Pukht stands as a representation of the refined culinary traditions of Northern India's Awadh region. The restaurant specializes in the ancient art of 'dum' cooking, where meals are slow-roasted in sealed handis, preserving their natural aromas and flavors. The restaurant was established in 1784 during a famine by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah as part of a food for work program.

The elegant dining space showcases Lucknowi architecture, complete with traditional pillars, arches, and ornate chandeliers that transport diners to a bygone era. The restaurant's grand decor elements create an immersive banquet-style atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

Under the expert guidance of Chef Gulam Qureshi, a fifth-generation culinary master with over 35 years of experience, Dum Pukht offers an exceptional menu featuring signature dishes like kakori kebabs, Koh-E-Awadh lamb shanks, and the cheese-and-yogurt marinated Jhinga Dum Nisha prawns.

The crown jewel of their offerings is the dum-cooked mutton biryani, prepared using time-honored techniques that have been perfected over generations.

Dum Pukht has earned its place among Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, celebrating more than three decades of excellence in fine dining. The restaurant has garnered praise from renowned food critics, including Andy Hayler, who specifically commended their chicken biryani for its delicate texture and superior quality.

With an average price point of $40 per person and an extensive wine list featuring both international and Indian selections, Dum Pukht offers a premium dining experience that honors the rich legacy of Awadhi cuisine.

Address: Hotel ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, 110021

Hours: Lunch (Sunday only), Dinner (Monday – Sunday)

Phone: +91 11 2611 2233

Baoshuan

Perched atop The Oberoi in New Delhi, Baoshuan offers an extraordinary journey through 4,000 years of Chinese culinary heritage. This sophisticated restaurant, overlooking the verdant Delhi Golf Club, presents modern Chinese cuisine and dim sum crafted under the guidance of two Michelin-starred mentor chef Andrew Wong.

The restaurant's elegant setting provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, creating an atmospheric dining experience in the heart of India's capital. Chef Wong's commitment to continuous culinary evolution drives the restaurant's innovative approach to traditional dishes. The menu draws inspiration from Tang dynasty Buddhist temples, incorporating ancient recipes and cooking techniques.

The menu at Baoshuan is a carefully curated celebration of Chinese gastronomy, drawing inspiration from China's diverse regions and its 14 international borders. Signature dishes include the whimsical Hedge hog Bao, flavorful Duck and chilli puff, Grilled chicken potsticker with egg and chilli, and the intricately crafted Thousand layers baked black pepper chicken roll.

The restaurant embraces an interactive service style and sharing plates concept, elevating the dining experience with cutting-edge presentation techniques.

What sets Baoshuan apart is its unique position as the only restaurant in India associated with a two Michelin-starred mentor chef, earning it a coveted spot on India's Top 50 Restaurants list by Condé Nast Traveller Awards 2023.

The restaurant's culinary philosophy masterfully balances health and innovation, incorporating traditional Chinese cooking concepts with medicinal properties and healing ingredients. Guests should note the dress code requiring full-length trousers and closed footwear for gentlemen, and children under 13 aren't permitted after 9:00 pm.

Address: The Oberoi, Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, New Delhi 110003, India

Hours: Lunch: 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm, Dinner: 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Phone: +91 11 2430 4370

Pluck

Pluck, nestled in New Delhi's vibrant Aerocity district, stands as a beacon of modern Indian fine dining, offering an innovative culinary experience that marries European, Italian, and Indian cuisines.

The restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere is enhanced by its contemporary art collection, featuring works from renowned European artists like Guillermo Forchino and Romero Britto, creating a unique dining environment where art meets gastronomy. Chef Shyam Dhar Rai has recently revamped the menu to showcase innovative interpretations of traditional dishes.

The immersive artistic experience includes sculptures from Paris that are available for guests to purchase while dining.

Alongside its main dining space, Café Pluck provides an all-day dining experience with an extensive menu ranging from hearty breakfasts to late-night cravings.

The café specializes in freshly brewed coffees, high tea service, and an array of street food offerings, while maintaining both kosher and non-kosher options. Their menu showcases everything from traditional Indian favorites like Dahi Puchka and Vada Pav to international classics such as Napolitano Pizza and French pastries.

What sets Pluck apart is its innovative approach to serving Indian cuisine, particularly through Café Pluck's unique tiffin presentation that evokes childhood nostalgia.

Under the guidance of Chef Ravi, who brings over a decade of culinary expertise to Farmers' Basket at Pluck, the restaurant has earned an impressive 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor from 405 unbiased reviews, cementing its position as one of New Delhi's premier dining destinations.

Address: Asset No 02, Gmr Hospitality District, IGI Rd, Aerocity, New Delhi, Delhi 110037

Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Phone: +91 98716 66600

Olive Bar & Kitchen

Nestled in the historic Mehrauli district of New Delhi, Olive Bar & Kitchen stands as a Mediterranean oasis amid the bustling city. The restaurant's whitewashed walls, blue-and-white furniture, and enchanting lanterns transport diners to a coastal European setting, while its tree-lined courtyard featuring a majestic Banyan canopy creates an atmosphere of sophisticated tranquility. Under the culinary direction of Chef Dhruv Oberoi, the restaurant consistently delivers innovative and expertly crafted dishes.

The culinary experience at Olive Bar & Kitchen showcases a masterful blend of Italian, Continental, European, and Mediterranean cuisines. With an accessible European menu, the restaurant delights patrons with exquisite dishes such as sea crab and tangerine ceviche, Berber spice-cooked sand lobster and cauliflower, and innovative cuttlefish meatballs. The establishment also takes pride in its cheese-based dishes, sourcing from artisanal fromageries to guarantee authentic flavors. The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences with vegan and vegetarian options available upon request.

What sets Olive Bar & Kitchen apart is its remarkable balance of fine dining sophistication and relaxed ambiance. The picturesque pebbled courtyard provides a unique dining setting that has earned the restaurant a solid 4.0 rating on Tripadvisor, ranking it #142 among New Delhi's 5,417 restaurants.

Food critics have consistently praised it as a "haven of gastronomic delight," noting its meticulous attention to detail and successful fusion of international flavors.

Address: One Style Mile, 6-8, Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi, 110030

Hours: Lunch and dinner, Monday to Sunday

Phone: +91 11 2957 4444

Lodi – The Garden Restaurant

Lodi – The Garden Restaurant offers a serene dining experience in the heart of New Delhi, nestled alongside the historic Lodhi Gardens. This Mediterranean and European cuisine establishment combines natural beauty with culinary artistry, featuring an intimate setting complete with gravel-laden pathways, bamboo lamps, and strategically placed seating that creates an atmospheric dining environment. The restaurant's delightful Sunday brunch has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant's menu showcases carefully crafted dishes including their signature Pistou Soup, River Sole Steak Creole, and Grilled Manali Trout. With 180 seating covers spread across various sections, the restaurant can accommodate both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Diners can choose between the cozy indoor dining area or the outdoor deck, which provides sweeping views of Lodhi Gardens. Private tented cabanas offer an exclusive dining option for those seeking additional privacy and romance.

What sets Lodi apart is its commitment to creating a multisensory experience, combining cuisine with entertainment through live jazz performances on weekends. While the food maintains a respectable 3.5/5 rating, the establishment has room for improvement in both service and ambiance, which currently stand at 2.5/5.

At approximately Rs. 2500 for two without alcohol, it offers a mid-to-high-range dining option with the added benefits of valet parking and credit card acceptance.

Address: Gate No. 1, Lodhi Garden, Lodhi Road, New Delhi

Hours: 12:00 PM to 12:30 AM

Phone: 011-24655054

Gulati Restaurant

Gulati Restaurant stands as a culinary landmark in New Delhi's Pandara Road Market, serving exquisite North Indian cuisine since 1959. This iconic establishment offers an extensive menu featuring Tandoori, Mughlai, North Indian, and Hyderabadi dishes, with particular emphasis on their kebabs, main courses, biryani, and traditional bread varieties.

The restaurant's all-encompassing beverage selection includes various mocktails, complementing their rich and diverse food offerings. Customers can conveniently order their favorite dishes through their online ordering system for a seamless experience.

With a spacious dining capacity of 140 covers, Gulati Restaurant provides multiple dining options including home delivery, pickup, and dine-in services. The establishment maintains a warm, welcoming atmosphere that caters to families and accepts all major credit and debit cards, ensuring a convenient dining experience for its patrons.

What makes Gulati Restaurant particularly remarkable is its transformation from a modest dhaba with wooden benches to a sophisticated dining establishment. In 2013, the restaurant underwent a complete remodeling, elevating its interiors while maintaining its authentic culinary heritage. Their renowned Butter Chicken requires 48 hours of sauce preparation to achieve its distinctive flavor profile.

This evolution from street-side eatery to one of Delhi's most celebrated restaurants for North Indian cuisine exemplifies the establishment's commitment to excellence while honoring its humble beginnings.

Address: 6, Pandara Road Market, New Delhi-110003 (INDIA)

Hours: 12 noon to midnight, seven days a week

Phone: 91-11-2338 8836

Yauatcha

Yauatcha, founded by Alan Yau in 2004, brought its sophisticated take on Chinese dim sum to Delhi's upscale Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj. The restaurant established itself as a refined dining destination, offering an extensive menu of authentic Cantonese dim sum alongside a carefully curated selection of over 24 varieties of tea.

The spacious interior, originally designed by Christian Liaigre, featured well-spaced tables that provided intimate dining experiences for guests while offering full views of the kitchen operations. The restaurant's atmosphere embodied a modern-day tea house concept, encouraging social interaction among diners.

The menu showcased a masterful blend of traditional and contemporary Chinese cuisine, featuring steamed, baked, and fried dim sum varieties. Beyond dim sum, diners could explore a range of duck and fish dishes, noodle preparations, and French-inspired desserts. The restaurant's global expansion was solidified when Tasameem acquired the majority stake in 2008.

The restaurant employed a "core and peripheral" approach to its menu, maintaining classic Cantonese staples while incorporating seasonal specialties and signature dishes influenced by various Chinese regions.

Notably, Yauatcha's original London location maintained a prestigious Michelin star rating from 2005 to 2019, establishing the brand's reputation for culinary excellence.

While the restaurant expanded to multiple locations across India, including Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, as well as international locations in Honolulu and Houston, it's worth noting that the Delhi branch has since ceased operations, marking the end of an era for fine Chinese dining in the capital city.

Address: Level 2, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, Delhi 110070

Hours: 12 PM to 1 AM

Phone: Information not provided in facts

Moti Mahal

Founded in 1947 after the partition of India, Moti Mahal stands as a culinary landmark in Delhi's bustling Daryaganj neighborhood. The restaurant, established by Kundan Lal Gujral, Kundan Lal Jaggi, and Thakur Das Magu, emerged from humble beginnings when the founders relocated from their original Peshawar location. The founders started with a small booth in Daryaganj before expanding into a full restaurant. Kundan Lal Gujral applied his famous 6 Ps formula to ensure the restaurant's success through product quality, price, promotion, place, personalized service, and people satisfaction.

Their innovative spirit led to the creation of now-iconic dishes including Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, and Dal Makhani, fundamentally shaping North Indian cuisine as it's understood today.

Under current Managing Director Monish Gujral, Moti Mahal has expanded into a global enterprise with locations across India, Bahrain, UAE, and the USA. The restaurant chain offers an extensive menu of traditional Punjabi and North Indian dishes, alongside a range of ready-to-eat packaged foods and signature spice blends that allow customers to recreate their favorite dishes at home.

The restaurant's legacy is marked by visits from an impressive roster of global dignitaries, including U.S. President Richard Nixon, Jacqueline Kennedy, and the Shah of Iran, among others.

This historical significance is celebrated at their new Chandigarh location, which features a gallery dedicated to Moti Mahal's rich heritage and contributions to Indian cuisine.

Address: 3704 Netaji Subhash Marg, Near Golcha Cinema, Daryaganj, New Delhi, India

Hours: [Hours not provided in source material]

Phone: [Phone number not provided in source material

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Visit Delhi Restaurants to Avoid Crowds?

You'll find the least crowded times at Delhi restaurants during weekday lunches and early dinners.

If you're looking for a peaceful dining experience, try visiting between 2-5 PM during mid-afternoon hours.

You can also avoid crowds by dining during off-peak seasons when there's less tourist traffic.

For the best service and quieter atmosphere, schedule your meals during these slower periods, and you'll enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Do Delhi's Fine Dining Restaurants Require Traditional Indian Attire?

While 75% of Delhi's upscale diners prefer traditional Indian attire, you won't find strict requirements for wearing it at fine dining establishments.

You'll discover that most high-end restaurants like Indian Accent, Bukhara, and Dum Pukht focus more on elegant, sophisticated attire rather than traditional clothing.

You're welcome to wear Western formal wear or Indian traditional outfits, as long as you maintain a classy appearance that matches the restaurant's upscale ambiance.

Which Restaurants in Delhi Offer Special Vegetarian Tasting Menus?

You'll find several restaurants in Delhi offering special vegetarian tasting menus.

Sattvik Restaurant's Navratri thali showcases a variety of vegetarian delicacies, while Veg Gulati's traditional North Indian menu features specialties like dal makhani.

Don't miss Govinda's Restaurant at ISKCON temple, where you can enjoy their unique buffet system.

For fine dining, try Shraman Restaurant's Rajasthani cuisine, and if you're craving sweets, Bengali Sweet House offers diverse vegetarian options with desserts.

Are Reservations Mandatory for All High-End Restaurants in Delhi?

Like the ebb and flow of the Yamuna River, Delhi's high-end dining scene offers varying reservation policies.

You'll find that while it's not mandatory at all establishments, you'd be wise to book ahead at prestigious spots like Dum Pukht and Indian Accent.

Some restaurants like Olive Bar and Kitchen welcome walk-ins, though you're safer with a reservation during peak times.

At places like Bukhara and Yauatcha, don't risk disappointment – always book ahead.

Which Delhi Restaurants Provide Private Dining Rooms for Special Occasions?

You'll find numerous upscale restaurants offering private dining spaces for your special occasions.

Bukhara and Dum Pukht at ITC Maurya provide luxurious enclosed settings, while Indian Accent offers an intimate experience with their Chef's Tasting Menu.

For a unique atmosphere, try Baoshuan's rooftop private rooms or Olive Bar and Kitchen's floral canopy spaces.

Lodi – The Garden Restaurant's outdoor deck and La Piazza's dimly-lit rooms are perfect for intimate gatherings.