This Independence Day, celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage with three of Delhi’s most iconic restaurants, each offering a unique taste of history. From the first restaurant inside the historic Red Fort to establishments that have been serving legendary dishes since before India gained independence, these dining experiences are a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the flavors of India’s past.
Daryaganj: A Culinary Legacy from 1947
Daryaganj, one of Delhi’s most celebrated North Indian cuisine restaurants, is steeped in history, tracing its roots back to the pre-independence era. Founded by Kundan Lal Jaggi, a refugee from Peshawar, Daryaganj is credited with inventing some of the most iconic dishes in Indian cuisine, including Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. This Independence Day, Daryaganj is serving these original recipes, preserving the culinary legacy that has been passed down through generations.
Kundan Lal Jaggi, who founded the restaurant in 1947, was a pioneer of tandoori cuisine, introducing it to the world with his innovative recipes. The Original 1947 Butter Chicken, born out of necessity late one night when the kitchen was nearly empty, is now a staple in North Indian cuisine. Similarly, the Original 1947 Dal Makhani was created when a regular guest suggested that Jaggi do something special with ‘Maa ki dal.’ His slow-cooked creation has since become a beloved dish, celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Daryaganj has continued to honor Kundan Lal Jaggi’s legacy by maintaining the integrity of these original recipes. This Independence Day, the restaurant is offering a special menu that includes not only the legendary Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani but also the Original Butter Paneer and Chicken Pakora, each dish carrying the same nostalgic flavors from 1947.
United Coffee House: A Culinary Journey Since 1942
Another historic gem, United Coffee House (UCH), has been serving Delhi since 1942, the year of the Quit India movement. Conceptualized by Lala Hans Raj Kalra, UCH was designed to bring the diverse culture of Delhi under one roof. Over the decades, it has become a beloved café-restaurant and bar, frequented by writers, artists, lawyers, journalists, and politicians.
UCH offers a unique menu that reflects its rich history. Dishes like the Mix Meat Grill Sizzler, Railway Mutton Curry, and Keema Samosa are just a few of the specialties that have been delighting patrons for over eight decades. This Independence Day, UCH continues to be a place where history and gastronomy intersect, offering a culinary experience that is both nostalgic and timeless.
Café Delhi Heights: Dining Inside the Red Fort
For the first time ever, you can now dine inside the iconic Red Fort at Café Delhi Heights. This all-day casual neighborhood café has opened its doors within the historic monument, becoming the first restaurant in India to be situated inside a world-renowned heritage site. Blending Delhi’s favorite comfort food with the majestic ambiance of the Mughal era, Café Delhi Heights offers a unique dining experience that combines history with contemporary flavors.
The menu at Café Delhi Heights is a culinary atlas that includes a variety of dishes, from hearty breakfasts to palatable lunches and divine dinners. Highlights include the ISBT Makhani Maggi, Juicy Lucy Burger, and Rajasthani Lal Maas, all served with a backdrop of centuries-old history and architectural marvels.
This Independence Day, step into a time capsule at Café Delhi Heights and enjoy a meal that pays homage to India’s rich culinary heritage while celebrating the country’s vibrant future. Whether you’re indulging in the Original 1947 recipes at Daryaganj, savoring classic dishes at United Coffee House, or dining amidst history at Café Delhi Heights, these restaurants offer a unique way to celebrate India’s independence.