Deep inside the old Delhi lanes, where history speaks through the tiniest crack in those ancient walls, is a food hub that for more than a century has been dishing out the spirit of Mughal cuisine—Karim's. For any person who has lived in or visited Delhi, Karim's means much more than just a restaurant; rather, it is a sacred passage—a place where food can transcend the realm of mere sustenance and takes the form of an experience, attaching itself to the rich heritage of this city. Be it the locals or the tourists, an experience at Karim's means relishing a mouth-watering journey across time when the flavours of the Mughal era have been preserved with pride and care. From this modest start in 1913 to the globally recognized culinary icon, Karim's has come a long way in offering royal flavours of the Mughal reign to the common man. Its continuing popularity is a witness to the classic creations of the place that, with its rich aromas, has continued uninterruptedly to titillate the taste buds of generation after generation. For any person who seeks its meal to be a real and traditional experience, Karim's is definitely the place to visit in the heart of Old Delhi.
Karim's: A Brief Introduction
Karim's is one legendary eating house situated just behind Jama Masjid in Old Delhi. It has been offering out Mughal delicacies since way back in 1913. From a small dhaba of Haji Karimuddin, it flourished to a full-fledged restaurant and later into a flourishing hotel. Today, it attracts food lovers from all over India and abroad. While the restaurant and hotel expanded, the one near Jama Masjid remains the favourite, serving a slice of history with every bite. It is simply because the restaurant never compromised on quality, where it's present owner Zain Saab personally looks in the kitchen to ensure that the original taste and flavour is intact.
History of Karim's
Karim's dates back to the mid-19th century when Mohammed Aziz, a cook in the royal court of the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar left Delhi after the emperor was dethroned. His son, Haji Karimuddin, returned to Delhi in 1911 during the coronation of King George V, armed with an excellent business idea. He decided to open a dhaba close to Jama Masjid, offering Mughal classics to the people who came rushing to the capital. With only two dishes—Alu Gosht or mutton cooked with potatoes and Daal or lentil curry, served with Rumali Roti—Karimuddin's dhaba soon became popular. By 1913, the small dhaba had taken on the identity of the Karim Hotel, and as they say, there was no looking back thereafter.
What to Order
The menu of Karim's is literally a treasure trove for the connoisseur of Mughal delicacies, each dish overflowing with rich, aromatic flavours. For the non-vegetarians, there are some dishes that are absolute must-tries: Nayaab Brain Curry, Mutton Biryani, Seekh Kebabs, Tandoori Bhara, Mutton Korma, and Chicken Mughlai. Clearly, the Shahi Paneer with its creamy, perfectly spiced gravy is the winner among all the vegetarian options. The Palak Paneer and Dal Makhani are also highly recommended. No meal can be consumed at Karim's without the soft, fluffy Rumali Roti, while a meal can have no better ending than with the decadent Bakarkhani and Sheermal, both traditional Mughal breads that go very well with the rich gravies.
Why Karim's is Popular
Karim's is not only a restaurant but a living embodiment of Delhi's rich culinary tradition. With a stern commitment to preserving the original taste of the Mughal era, it has become the favourite haunt of every section of society, from the commoner on the street to celebrities. Over the years, the eatery has been visited by many noted celebrities, including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who would often order delicacies for her parties, and the famous painter MF Husain, who liked the simplicity of the interiors of the restaurant. People who have visited Karim's include international icons such as Barack Obama, Gordon Ramsay, and a whole host of Bollywood stars and cricketers, to further consolidate its status as a culinary landmark in the city.
When to Visit
Karim's stays open all seven days but, for the whole effect, visit it for lunch or dinner when the place comes alive with people. The best time to come here is winter when the rich, hearty dishes are especially welcoming in comfort. Be it a casual meal or a special outing, Karim's assures a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Address: Karim's, 16, Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid, New Delhi, India
Phone: +9111 2326 4981
Cost for two: INR 700