Celebrate Independence Day 2025 at Delhi’s Iconic Pre-Independence Era Eateries

Independence Day 2025 is around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the day of national pride than with scrumptious bites at some of the iconic pre-independence eateries in Delhi with your family and friends? From timeless fine-dining institutions to beloved local eateries, these spots in Delhi are unmissable for anyone seeking to savour the nostalgic flavours of the pre-Partition era.

Pre-Independence Eateries In Delhi

Karim’s

Karim’s at Jama Masjid is a much-loved eatery in the tiny lanes of Old Delhi, and it has been serving appetising Mughlai food since 1913. Popularly known for the non-vegetarian delicacies, their extensive menu is well set with kebabs, biryani, rolls and tandoori delights. If you are craving a delicious bite of nostalgia, then Karim’s is your place to be, serving timeless flavours in every dish. Must-try dishes include qeema naan, Akbari murgh masala, and firdausi qorma. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink and end on a sweet note with decadent treats like kheer and shahi tukda from the mithaas section.

Address: 16, Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid, New Delhi

Price for two: Approx INR 1000

What to order from Karim’s menu: Murg biryani anarkali, Karahi chicken, and nargisi kofta

Kwality

Kwality in Connaught Place, established in 1940, is a timeless icon that blends old-world charm with rich culinary traditions. The vintage interiors, warm lights, and a menu steeped in North Indian, Mughlai, and Continental classics offer a mouth-watering experience. Signature dishes include chana bhatura, taar gosht, and chicken à la Kiev, which continues to win hearts. With decadent desserts and an impressive drinks collection, the nostalgic indulgence ends perfectly.

Address: 7, Regal Building, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Price for two: INR 4000

What to order from Kwality’s menu: Chana bhatura, dahi kebab, and chicken bharta

Moti Mahal

If butter chicken and chicken tikka top your list of favourites, a visit to Moti Mahal in Daryaganj is a must. This legendary spot was established in 1947 and is the birthplace of iconic dishes like butter chicken, daal makhani, and tandoori chicken. The ambience is steeped in old-world charm, and the restaurant redefines Indian cuisine, spotlighting bold Indian flavours. From smoky burra kebabs to rich bhunna gosht, every dish here is wrapped with history and tradition. 

Address: Connaught Place and Daryaganj

Price for two: INR 1300

What to order from Moti Mahal’s menu: Dahi mutton, achaari chicken and malai kofta

Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfi

Tucked in the lanes of Chawri Bazaar, Kuremal Mohanlaal Kulfi is a legendary spot serving flavourful kulfi since 1906. What began with Kirorimal Mohanlal selling mango-stuffed kulfi from a cart has become a beloved name known for developing its inventive and refreshing flavours. From the iconic stuffed mango kulfi to paan, imli, and even jamun, each bite is a burst of tradition and creativity. 

Address: 526, Bazar Sita Ram, Near Chawri Bazar Metro Station, Chawri Bazar, New Delhi

Price for two: INR 200

What to order from Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfi’s menu: Jamun kulfi and fruit cream

United Coffee House

Established in 1942, this royal eatery is known for its regal ambience and unmatchable taste. Serving a variety of cuisines, including Mughlai, Chinese, European, and North Indian, it’s a treat for every foodie. If you are planning a premium lunch with your family, United Coffee House serves it just right. The menu offers rich, authentic flavours, from tikkas to kebabs and hearty mains. You must try the urad matki masala, moge wala kukkad, and keema chop kaleji for a flavour-packed experience. The bar menu features extensive drinks and cocktails, from classic favourites to house specials crafted to complement every meal and mood.  

Address: E-15, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Price for two: INR 4500

What to order from United Coffee House’s menu: Hazaari paneer tikka, Balochii machhi fry and martaban ka meat.

Ameer Sweet House

Ameer Sweet House near Jama Masjid is a must-visit if you crave sweets with Old Delhi charm. This 100-year-old sweet shop delights with both sweet and savoury treats. In addition to crispy samosas and filling bread pakoras, you can relish milk cake and gulab jamun to balance your palate. 

Address:958, Haveli Azam Khan, Chitli Qabar, Jama Masjid, New Delhi

Price for two: INR 150

What to order from Ameer Sweet House’s menu: Pista barfi and kalakand

Sita Ram Diwan Chand

If chole bhature is your weekend staple, you shouldn’t miss the classic ones from Sita Ram Diwan Chand. Nestled in the bylanes of Paharganj, this famous eatery has been popular for its signature chole bhature since 1950. Started by the late Sitaram Kohr and Deewan Chand, the place serves delicious chole bhature with a variety of drinks, making it a wholesome Indian meal, and that too at pocket-friendly rates. Don’t miss the sweet lassi and shikanji, the perfect refreshers to round off your meals.

Address: 2243, Chuna Mandi, Raj Guru Road, Paharganj, New Delhi

Price for two: INR 200

What to order from Sita Ram Diwan Chand’s menu: Chole bhature and masala shikanji