Mumbai may have been anointed the restaurant capital of the country by a few food critics but the capital city has a lot of foodies’ hearts. From the bylanes of Purani Dilli to the vistas of Chanakyapuri, every corner seems to offer special treats in Delhi. Yes, Chanakyapuri too. The pincode is better known for its embassies, and not so much a bustling restaurant scene.
But thanks to the multitude of embassies and cultural centres that dot the capital, Delhiites have always had access to unique international cuisines that the rest of the country simply doesn’t. Plus it’s authentic and affordable to boot. For example, Ethiopian injera bread is mostly inaccessible to those of us who live in Mumbai, but the residents of Delhi can hop over to the Ethiopian Cultural Centre and get their fill. Infact, some of the best global nosh in the capital is not made in the kitchens of the much-hyped restaurants but these backlane canteens. All of them may not have the ambience of a white-table-clothed joint, but the menus make up for it. Here are a few joints that will be worth the drive:
Vietnam Embassy’s Canteen
You can’t roll in any day of the week but on Friday, the canteen is open to the general public. Gorge on pho (soup), bun cha (meat balls) or sample their pork noodles. A meal for two will cost less than a thousand bucks here. Winner winner!
The Cafe At Korean Cultural Centre
Korean food has made its way into the Indian mainstream but the cafe at Korean Cultural Centre is the OG Korean spot. Their Bibimbap bowl is a favourite among the reviewers of this eatery. Finish your memorable and affordable meal with their “Fairytale” tea.
Ethiopian Cultural Centre
Go for the injera platter–a shared platter made of a sourdough pancakes topped with various spicy vegetarian and/or non-vegetarian options. End with a cup of Ethiopian coffee which will be presented to you with a side of ceremony by the waiting staff.
Alliance Francaise Delhi
The small eatery serves popular French nosh like crepes along with more global fare like burgers and sandwiches. It is affordable, the service is quick, and you can order a crepe while watching a French verite film at one of the many film festivals that Alliance Francaise organises.
Italian Institute Of Culture
This is the spot which is the closest to a fine dining experience. And why would it not be. The food is catered by celebrity chef Ritu Dalmia, who first introduced Delhi to authentic Italian flavours with her restaurant Diva.
