Beyond Tripadvisor: Delhi Street Food Spots Only Locals Know

Where locals eat in Delhi

Want to eat like a true Dilliwala? Forget the guidebooks—these are the local-approved, under-the-radar spots where Delhi really serves up its flavor. From Tibetan thukpa to smoky seekh kebabs, here’s your ultimate cheat sheet.

Majnu Ka Tilla – Delhi’s Tibetan Quarter

  • What to eat: Pork momos, Thukpa, Laphing (spicy cold noodles)
  • Try at: Ama Café or Dolma House
  • When to go: Late afternoon to early evening
  • Rating by locals: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
  • Avg price: ₹250–₹400 per person
  • Why go: Authentic Tibetan flavors and a peaceful riverside setting
  • 📸 Insta: #MajnuKaTilla

2. Amar Colony – South Delhi’s Late-Night Street Hub

Must try: Tandoori momos, chicken shawarma, keema paratha
Where: Outside Tagore International School
Why locals love it: Student favorite with bold, greasy flavors
Avg. Price: ₹100–₹250
When to go: After 6 PM till midnight
🔥 Insider tip: Grab your grub and eat standing like a true Dilliwala.
📸 Insta: #AmarColony

3. Shankar Market – Old Delhi Meets Modern Veg Delights

Specialty: Rajma chawal, thalis, Jain-friendly eats
Try at: Shiv Tikki Wala (budget and iconic)
Good for: Budget eaters, vegetarian travelers
Avg. Price: ₹100–₹200
When to go: Lunch hours
📱 Cashless tip: Shiv Tikki Wala now accepts Mony—super handy.
📸 Insta: #ShankarMarket

4. CR Park – A Taste of Bengal in Delhi

Eat this: Fish cutlets, egg rolls, mishti doi, luchi-aloo
Best during: Durga Puja (Sept–Oct) for full-on food carnival
Avg. Price: ₹150–₹300
Go for: Street stalls near Market 1 & 2
📱 Travel tip: Use Mony to scan and pay at the tiniest counters.
📸 Insta: #CRPark

5. Matia Mahal – Night Bites Near Jama Masjid

Must eats: Seekh kebabs, Nihari, Sheermal, kheer
Why go: Smoky alleys filled with centuries-old flavors
Avg. Price: ₹200–₹400
When to visit: 8 PM onwards
💡 Late-night hack: Foreigners can skip cash—just use Mony at most stalls.
📸 Insta: #MatiaMahal

Local Tips

  • 👟 Wear comfy shoes—some gems are in narrow lanes
  • 🌶️ Ask for spice level—Delhi doesn’t hold back
  • 📱 Use the Mony app to pay safely and avoid ATM runs
  • 📸 Respect local dining spaces when clicking food shots
  • 🕔 Best time to explore? Post-lunch till 10 PM for peak vibe

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