Chandni Chowk

Indians love street food, which they refer to as small plates of savory snacks called chaat. The best Delhi street food is without a doubt found in Old Delhi around Chandni Chowk. It's really worth trying some just to taste the different flavors and spices of India. Here's where to get hygienic and delicious Delhi street food.

1. Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar

If the sign of a good place to eat is its popularity with the locals, then this shop has to be one of the best places for chaat in Old Delhi. Its decor is average but it serves up an incredible variety of delicious snacks. Adventurous eaters must try it.

• Address: 1462, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. Ph: 23280579
• Opening Hours: Midday until 10 p.m.
• Cost: Around 80 rupees for two people.
• What's Good: The papri chaat (crispy fried dough wafers, served with boiled potatoes, boiled chick peas, chilis, yoghurt and tamarind chutney).

2. Bishan Swaroop

Bishan Swaroop can be challenging to find but is definitely worth the effort. It's hidden away in one of Chandni Chowk's unruly side streets, which helps it retain an old-world feel. There's only a few items on the menu, but what this place makes, it makes well.

• Address: 1421, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. Ph: 9818364070 (mobile).
• Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Cost: Around 50 rupees for two people.
• What's Good: The aloo kulla (boiled potato that's scooped out and filled with chickpeas and garnished with spices and lemon).

3. Lala Babu Chaat Bhandar

Lala Babu Chaat Bhandar dishes up an enticing selection of authenticchaat. The service is friendly and the food offers good value for money.

• Address: 77, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi (opposite McDonalds). Ph: 23282806.
• Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Cost: Around 80 rupees for two people.
• What's Good: The gobi muttar samosas (crispy pastries stuffed with cooked cauliflower, peas, and spices) are very popular.

4. Prince's Paan & Chaat Corner

This up-market place is perfect for those who want to sample Delhi's delicious street food but aren't keen on venturing into the depths of Chandni Chowk. It's got a great following of expats owing to its posh residential and shopping location, and strict hygiene standards.

• Address: 29, M Block Market, Greater Kailash I, New Delhi. Ph: 29236364.
• Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Cost: Around 250 rupees for two people.
• What's Good: The gol gappas (fried crispy shells filled with a watery mixture of potato, chilli, and tamarind), also known elsewhere India as pani puri.

5. Jugal Kishore Ramji Lal

Amidst the sights and sounds of Chandni Chowk, this place is renowned for its refreshing fruit chaat.

• Address: 13, Dujana House, Chawri Bazaar, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. Ph: 9811353076 (mobile).
• Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Cost: Around 60 rupees for two people.
• What's Good: The fruit chaat (fruit salad with a twist) is the specialty here.