Old Delhi is a sensory overload — narrow lanes filled with history, culture, and mouth-watering food.
At the heart of this culinary heaven lies Pul Bangash, a historic neighborhood known for its authentic Mughlai, Punjabi, and North Indian food.
This 1-day itinerary takes you on a food lover’s journey, from breakfast to dinner, through the streets of Pul Bangash and nearby areas like Chandni Chowk and Sadar Bazaar.
So, wear your comfiest shoes and come hungry — because Delhi feeds the soul and the stomach in equal measure.
Table of Contents
Morning: Breakfast in Pul Bangash
Start your day early to experience one of Old Delhi’s most cherished traditions — hearty breakfast fare.
Stop 1: Nihari & Paya at a Local Dhaba
Time: 7:00–8:30 AM
Dish: Nihari — slow-cooked beef or mutton stew, and Paya — goat trotters in spiced broth.
Served with fluffy naan or kulcha.
Why: Rich, filling, and steeped in history. Traditionally eaten at dawn after morning prayers.
Recommended spot: A small but famous dhaba near Pul Bangash metro exit that locals queue up for.
Stop 2: Chai & Kachori
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Dish: Kachori with aloo sabzi, spicy, crispy and piping hot.
Wash it down with sweet masala chai served in clay cups.
Optional: Sweet Jalebi Fix
If you have room, grab a fresh jalebi — syrupy, crispy spirals that make mornings magical in Old Delhi.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Bazaars
Take a short stroll through the lanes around Pul Bangash and Sadar Bazaar.
- Browse shops selling spices, dry fruits, fabrics, and kitchenware.
- Take in the sights and sounds while letting your breakfast settle.
You can also visit a local mosque or temple to soak in the atmosphere.
Lunch: Dive Into the Heart of Old Delhi
Stop 3: Biryani & Kebabs
Time: 12:30–1:30 PM
Dish:
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Chicken/Mutton Biryani — aromatic rice cooked with meat & spices.
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Seekh kebabs, shami kebabs, tikka.
Where: Local kebab shop in Pul Bangash, or walk towards Matia Mahal (near Jama Masjid) for the legendary kebabs there.
Stop 4: Vegetarian Thali
If you’re vegetarian, opt for a thali with dal, sabzi, paneer, roti & raita at a nearby dhaba.
Pro Tip: Pair your lunch with a cold glass of lassi (sweet or salty).
Afternoon: Cool Down & Snack
After lunch, take a break. The afternoons in Delhi can be warm, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy some cool desserts and light snacks.
Stop 5: Kulfi & Rabri
Time: 3:30–4:00 PM
Dish:
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Kulfi — creamy frozen dessert, often served on a stick or in falooda.
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Rabri — thickened sweetened milk with dry fruits.
You’ll find stalls selling these near Pul Bangash or in Chandni Chowk.
Evening: The Food Walk Continues
As the sun starts to set, Old Delhi comes alive again — with more aromas and sizzling pans than ever.
Stop 6: Chole Bhature & Chaat
Time: 5:30–6:30 PM
Dish:
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Chole bhature — spicy chickpeas with fried bread.
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Aloo tikki chaat, dahi bhalla, papri chaat.
Why: Perfect blend of spicy, tangy, crunchy goodness.
Where: Sadar Bazaar or nearby chaat vendors.
Stop 7: More Kebabs & Grills
Time: 7:00–8:00 PM
Dish: Head back to Pul Bangash or Matia Mahal for dinner — this is when kebab shops fire up the grills and the air fills with the irresistible aroma of marinated meats.
Nightcap: Final Sweet Bite
End your food journey on a sweet note.
Stop 8: Halwa & Jalebi
Time: 8:30–9:00 PM
Dish:
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Halwa — warm, ghee-rich semolina dessert.
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Or another round of fresh jalebi if you’re still craving.
Full-Day Timeline at a Glance
| Time | Stop & Dish |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Nihari & Paya with naan |
| 8:30 AM | Kachori, chai & jalebi |
| 10:00 AM | Bazaar walk & sightseeing |
| 12:30 PM | Biryani & kebabs / vegetarian thali |
| 3:30 PM | Kulfi & rabri |
| 5:30 PM | Chole bhature & chaat |
| 7:00 PM | More kebabs & tikka |
| 8:30 PM | Halwa & jalebi |
Tips for the Food Walk
- Go early to avoid long queues.
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking a lot.
- Carry cash & water.
- Eat small portions at each stop so you can sample more dishes.
- Don’t forget to click photos — every dish is Instagram-worthy!
Why This Itinerary Works
This route lets you:
- Taste authentic Old Delhi flavors.
- Experience both vegetarian & non-vegetarian delights.
- Explore heritage lanes & vibrant markets.
- Eat like a local, at the best spots, without missing anything essential.
Estimated Budget
You don’t have to spend much for a royal experience here.
- Breakfast: ₹100–150
- Lunch: ₹200–300
- Snacks & desserts: ₹150–200
- Dinner: ₹300–400
Total per person: ~₹800–1,000
How to Reach Pul Bangash
1. By Metro:
Take the Red Line and get down at Pul Bangash Metro Station.
2. By Car:
Parking is scarce, so public transport is better.
3. Auto-rickshaw:
Easily available from any part of Delhi.
Why Choose Pul Bangash for a Food Walk?
Authentic & affordable.
Less touristy than Chandni Chowk yet equally flavorful.
Historic ambiance & friendly vendors.
Wide variety of both veg & non-veg options.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best time to start the Pul Bangash food walk?
Start early morning (around 7 AM) for breakfast and end around 9 PM.
Q2: Is the food in Pul Bangash hygienic?
Most popular stalls are clean & safe. Eat where locals crowd and avoid uncooked items like salads.
Q3: Can vegetarians enjoy the Pul Bangash food walk?
Yes! There are plenty of vegetarian options like chole bhature, parathas, chaats, kachoris & sweets.
Q4: How long does the full itinerary take?
You can comfortably complete it in about 12–13 hours, with breaks in between.
Q5: How much does it cost?
Around ₹800–1,000 per person for a day of non-stop feasting.
Q6: Is Pul Bangash food better than Chandni Chowk?
Both are excellent — Pul Bangash is less crowded but equally authentic and delicious.
Q7: Do I need to book anything in advance?
No booking required — all spots are walk-in.
Q8: Are there good sweet shops in Pul Bangash?
Yes, you’ll find halwai shops selling jalebi, rabri, gulab jamun, and more.
Q9: Is it safe for solo travelers?
Yes — Old Delhi is crowded but generally safe. Stay aware of your belongings.
Q10: What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes & shoes — the area is traditional but casual.
Conclusion
If you want to taste the true flavors of Delhi, skip the fancy restaurants and head to Pul Bangash & Old Delhi for an unforgettable food adventure.
From dawn to dusk, this 1-day itinerary guides you through every iconic bite — smoky kebabs, creamy nihari, crispy jalebi, tangy chaat, and much more. Along the way, you’ll soak up centuries of history, bustling markets, and vibrant street life.
So, come hungry — and leave with a full stomach, happy heart, and plenty of memories.
Delhi waits to welcome you with open arms and sizzling tandoors!
Quick Links:
- Start: Pul Bangash Metro Station
- Highlights: Kebabs, Nihari, Jalebi, Chole Bhature
- Best time: October–March for pleasant weather
- Budget: ₹800–1,000 per person