Delhi is a food lover’s paradise, captivating locals and tourists alike with its wide range of culinary delights. From the humble chole bhature to extravagant feasts, the city has something for everyone. It serves as a melting pot of diverse cultures, encompassing the culinary traditions of all states and union territories of India. Surprisingly, there are State Bhavans in Delhi that showcase the essence of different regions through their authentic cuisine. The best part is that most of these bhavans have canteens that are open to the public and offer budget-friendly meals. So, if you’re craving an affordable and authentic regional dining experience, here are the 10 State Bhavans you must visit:
- Bijoli Grill, Banga Bhavan: If you’re a fan of authentic Bengali cuisine, a visit to Bijoli Grill at Banga Bhavan is a must. This establishment serves a wide array of Bengali delicacies such as mutton kosha, daab chingri, kosha mangsho, and scrumptious Bengali fish. Don’t forget to indulge in their famous Mishti Doi, a traditional Bengali sweet yogurt.
- Timings: 1 pm – 4 pm & 6 pm – 10 pm
- Location: 3, Hailey Road, Barakhamba Road
- Cost for two: INR 800 (approx.)
- Viva O’ Viva, Goa Niwas: Goan cuisine has garnered a strong fan base both in India and internationally. For pocket-friendly authentic Goan food in Delhi, head to Viva O’ Viva at Goa Niwas. This casual dining restaurant serves delectable dishes like peri prawn, chicken xacuti, prawn rava fry, pork vindaloo, and prawn curry. The live music adds to the vibrant ambiance, making it an unforgettable experience.
- Timings: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
- Location: 14, Bir Tikendrajit Marg, Chanakyapuri
- Cost for two: INR 1000 (approx.)
- Maharashtra Sadan: If you’re a fan of Maharashtrian cuisine and crave dishes like misal pav, poha Kolhapur, mutton, and puran poli, look no further than Maharashtra Sadan. This establishment is renowned for serving authentic Maharashtrian food that is both delicious and pocket-friendly.
- Timings: 7 am – 3 pm & 7 pm – 10 pm
- Location: Behind Baroda House, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, India Gate
- Cost for two: INR 300 (approx.)
- Andhra Bhavan: Andhra Bhavan is one of the most popular canteens in Delhi, known for its authentic Andhra cuisine. This place is often bustling with crowds, especially during breakfast houINR Here, you can relish perfectly puffed idlis, dosas, vadas, and the much-loved filter coffee. Additionally, their scrumptious Biryani is a must-try. Don’t miss out on this culinary gem during your time in Delhi.
- Timings: 8am – 10:30am, 12noon – 3pm, & 7:30pm – 10pm
- Location: 1, Ashoka Road, Near Feroze Shah Road, New Delhi
- Cost for two: INR 300 (approx.)
- Baankaahi, Assam Bhavan: For an authentic taste of Assamese cuisine in Delhi, Baankaahi is the place to be. This establishment offers a wide range of Assamese delicacies, including Khar, mati dal, and fish tenga. Be sure to try their pork fry and fish thali for a truly satisfying experience.
- Timings: 12noon to 10:30 pm.
- Location: 1, Assam Bhavan, Sardar Patel Marg
- Cost for two: INR 550 (approx.)
- The Potbelly, Bihar Niwas: The Potbelly restaurant, located in Bihar Niwas, serves an extensive selection of authentic Bihari food. In addition to traditional dishes like scrumptious little chokha and sattu drinks, they also offer fusion creations that have become favorites among visitors. The restaurant is known for its prompt service, friendly staff, and courteous atmosphere.
- Timings: 1 pm – 11 pm
- Location: Bihar Niwas, Plot 15, Behind Yashwant Place, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
- Cost for two: INR 1,000 (approx.)
- Tamil Nadu House: If you’re enticed by the flavors of Chettinad cuisine, Tamil Nadu House is your go-to destination. This establishment serves the best pooriyal, kootu, karakuzhambu, sambhar, payasam, and rasam. Their chicken Chettinad, chicken biryani, parotta, and chicken 65 have also garnered a loyal following.
- Timings: 7 am – 11 am, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm & 7 pm – 10 pm
- Location: Opposite Chanakya Theatre, Chanakyapuri
- Cost for two: INR 600 (approx.)
- Karnataka Food Center: If you’re a fan of Mysore masala dosa, vada, uttapam, and other popular Karnataka dishes, a visit to Karnataka Food Center is a must. Despite the crowd, the experience of savoring their delectable offerings will make it all worthwhile.
- Timings: 8 am – 11 pm
- Location: Delhi Karnataka Sangh Building, R K Puram
- Cost for two: INR 450 (approx.)
- Gujarat Bhavan: If you can’t resist khichda, Gujarati thali, kadhi, dhokla, and undhiyo, you’re a true Gujarati food enthusiast. To savor an authentic Gujarati meal in Delhi within your budget, head to Gujarat Bhavan. This establishment offers delicious Gujarati cuisine and provides a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat.
- Timings: 8 am – 10 am, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm – 10 pm
- Location: 11, Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri
- Cost for two: INR 400 (approx.)
- Jammu And Kashmir House: Indulge in mouth-watering Kashmiri delicacies like Nadu, rogan josh, and waazwan at Jammu and Kashmir House in Delhi. This establishment caters to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, making it a paradise for lovers of rich Kashmiri cuisine. If you can’t make it to Jammu and Kashmir, this is the place to experience their flavoINR
- Timings: 12:30 pm – 2 pm & 7:30 pm – 9 pm
- Location: 9, Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri
- Cost for two: INR 500 (approx.)
These State Bhavans in Delhi offer a delightful culinary journey, allowing you to explore the authentic flavors of various Indian states without breaking the bank. Have you had the pleasure of visiting any of these establishments? Let us know about your experience and savor the diverse regional cuisines that Delhi has to offer.
