Karim's: Signature Mughlai cuisine in Delhi

To have been to Delhi, and not visited, much less heard of Karim’s is blasphemous to say the very least.

The Mutiny of 1857 ushered in the decline of Mughal Empire, and the chefs who conjured many an epicurean delight for the Indian emperors ran away to save their lives. After spending decades in exile, they returned to Delhi in 1911 and established an eatery to serve commoners a meal befitting the royal palate.

Located in the by-lanes of Old Delhi, Karim’s Hotel is an iconic landmark. Started by Haji Karimuddin, this place offers a wide array of sumptuous delights, be it the Lazeez Murg Saag, Badshahi Badaam Pasanda, or the mouth-watering biryanis laden with dried fruits. Equally popular are its wide assortment of kebabs hot off the skewers, and the phirni rounding off the meal. Highly recommended also are its mutton items. And what's more is that Karim’s is extremely wallet-friendly.

What lacks in ambience certainly makes up for in food. While the Jama Masjid Karim is the original one, its popularity has led to the opening of several branches across the city, in Nizamuddin, Noida and Gurgaon.

No matter which branch you frequent, every item on the menu is nothing short of a glorious celebration of a tradition that has survived centuries.

So, hop over to any of the branches, and time-travel to the Mughal era ... gastronomically!