A Brief Introduction
If you’re in Delhi, craving a perfect, comforting plate of chole bhature for breakfast, ask any local about the renowned spot where the legacy of making delicious chole bhature continues. No one will hesitate to direct you straight to Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Paharganj.
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Delhi is home to some of India's most celebrated eateries, but few hold as iconic a place as Sita Ram Diwan Chand. This legendary establishment, nestled in Paharganj, is famous for serving a single dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many, the iconic chole bhature. With a history that dates back to 1947, Sita Ram Diwan Chand has become a culinary institution, attracting not just locals but celebrities and food enthusiasts from around the country.
History And Origin
The story of Sita Ram Diwan Chand begins in 1947, the year of India’s Partition. At just 15 years old, Sita Ram Kohli arrived in Delhi from Lahore, seeking a new beginning. He noticed the thriving food carts around Old Delhi and decided to carve out his niche in the culinary world. Setting up a modest food cart in Paharganj, he started serving Lahori chole bhature, a dish combining spicy chickpeas with soft, paneer-stuffed bhature.
Sita Ram’s initial venture was a simple cart stationed outside the local DAV school in Jhula Mandi. Its success led him to establish a more permanent setup at the Imperial Cinema in Paharganj, which was a bustling hub for refugees at that time. The eatery quickly gained popularity among the local crowd and cinema-goers, becoming an integral part of the neighbourhood’s food scene.
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By 1970, Sita Ram Diwan Chand expanded into a formal restaurant with a live kitchen and seating area. Today, under the guidance of Puneet Kohli, the fourth generation, the restaurant's reputation continued to grow in Delhi, making it a staple for anyone craving authentic chole bhature.
How They Serve The Signature Chole Bhature
Sita Ram Diwan Chand is celebrated for its commitment to traditional recipes and preparation methods. The restaurant sticks to its classic recipe, which includes a special blend of over 20 spices in the chickpea curry and a bhature stuffed with cottage cheese. The ingredients are carefully selected and prepared daily, ensuring each dish maintains its rich, authentic taste. The chole bhature is served with seasonal pickles and chutneys, adding a delightful array of flavours to each plate. If you’re a fan of lassi, you must try it with your plate, as it complements the dish perfectly, adding a cherry on top to your culinary experience.
Famous Celebrities Who Have Indulged With Sita Ram Diwan Chand
The restaurant's fame has attracted several celebrities over the years. Renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor has visited their outlet, praising their culinary excellence. Bollywood star Salman Khan enjoyed Sita Ram Diwan Chand’s chole bhature at their farmhouse, and the restaurant even catered to Abhishek Bachchan’s wedding. These high-profile visits have made the restaurant even more famous and a top choice for food lovers.
Image Credits: Sita Ram Diwan Chand/ Official Website
Current Outlets
Sita Ram Diwan Chand remains a beloved spot in Delhi, with its three thriving outlets continuing the legacy. The iconic outlet is located in Paharganj, with the other two in Greater Kailash and Laxmi Nagar. The Sita Ram Diwan Chand has also embraced the digital age, making it possible for customers to order their famous chole bhature online.
Price For One Plate
A place earns a memorable spot in customers' minds through its excellent food and affordable prices. At Sita Ram Diwan Chand, a plate of their signature chole bhature costs Rs 90 for a full serving, which includes two bhaturas. The sweet lassi is priced at Rs 40, reflecting the affordability and value that have contributed to its enduring popularity.