When planning a trip to Delhi, and listing down places that one needs to eat at, Parathe Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk makes it to every traveller’s list. Not just for tourists, it is quite a hot spot for residents of the city as well. We have had the opportunity to dine here when we were young, but now when we go here, there is something amiss. Is it worth the buzz? We don’t think so. Here’s why:
1. Paratha or poori?
It’s the ghee that makes the paratha delicious. Over a period of time, rather than just glazing it, the shops in parathe wali gali, have started to deep fry them. Even though it might seem appetising, you can’t help but dab it with a tissue paper the moment it is served.
2. Where’s the stuffing?
What is a paratha without the right amount of filling? While they might be generous with the frying and the ghee, they are not quite generous with the amount of stuffing that goes inside the paratha. You take the first bite and the appetite and excitement is lost.
3. Not everything edible goes well with parathas
There are certain combinations that really go well when it comes to parathas: aaloo (potato), gobhi (cauliflower), paneer (cottage cheese) and gaajar (carrot). While each shop there is trying to be different than the other and making an attempt to add that ‘x’ factor, but serving a stuffed paratha with a banana in it? No thank you!
4. Move to the ‘side’
The side dishes offered along with the paratha are either too spicy or too bland. The texture of the curd or chutney served is almost water like. Not much attention is paid to the taste either. So if you are looking for a whole and hearty meal at parathe wali gali, you will be a little disappointed
5. Not so ‘swacch’
The surrounding area of the parathe wali gali isn’t hygienic. There are open drains, garbage strewn around and well… the stink of the garbage overpowers the aroma of the parathas. Also, a large part of Chandini Chowk is undergoing construction. So, reaching this spot is a task. Once you reach and take a seat, and then a bunch of flies continue to bother you during your meal, it’s a buzz kill (no pun intended).
6. It’s all in the past
The history of the iconic parathe wali gali goes way back in time. As you sit down to have your meal and strike a conversation with one of the owners, they will tell you stories about their grandfathers and great-grandfathers; and how the business has been running in the family. But unfortunately, they no longer care about the hospitality or customer satisfaction. They are aware that because of the chapter in history, people will continue to come to their shops, if not for the food but for its ‘tourist status’.
7. Overpriced for the size
At parathe wali gali, most of the restaurants serve small-sized deep fried paratha for ₹70, which isn’t value for money. There are quite a few iconic street stalls that serve a big-sized portion of meals under ₹50; and the food tastes absolutely delicious.
People flock the parathe wali gali on a daily basis. It is famous, has an integral part in the history of the city, and is ‘known to’ serve some of the best parathas in the city. However, we feel that this is a must-visit if you are coming to Delhi for the first time, but there is nothing here that is going to make you come back for more. There, we said it… it’s overrated!