Al Jawahar Restaurant

"Karim's is often featured on conventional Old Delhi to-do lists, but the neighbouring Jawahar Hotel, run by the family who were originally landlords to Karim's, also deserves a mention. Named after India's first Prime Minister who once dined here, back in the 1940s, Al Jawahar, and its sibling Old Jawahar, has a legacy to live up to. While Karim's has always been famous for its kebabs, Al-Jawahar prepares a mean mutton korma. This trio of restaurants is conveniently located in the Matia Mahal area, west of Jama Masjid. Our recommendation is to go carnivorous all the way and mop up those meaty juices with the fresh, hot naans that they churn out all day!" - Delhi Dallying

"The Jama Masjid, a mosque built by emperor Shah Jahan (the man behind the Taj Mahal) is one of Delhi’s top attractions, but it’s worth visiting just to try some of the city’s best food nearby. The lane from the old city to the mosque is dotted with kebab shops and dessert spots, but for sit-down Old Delhi fare, head to Al Jawahar, which locals prefer to its oft-recommended neighbor Karim’s. Al Jawahar is a classic lunch room, with basic tables, uniformed waiters, and an unchanging menu of classics. Bring friends and share a lunch of seekh kebabs (minced chicken spiced with coriander), thick and peppery mutton korma, and sheermal (sweet, saffron-dipped bread). Finish off with cardamom-spiked phirni rice pudding set in clay pots, and if you have room, a sweet, milky chai. [$$]" - Sharanya Deepak