Delhi is the capital city for a reason: it’s the food capital. Students, workers, labourers, all flock to the city in thousands every year in search of a new home. That in no way means they’re ready to give up on the traditions they grew up with, nor should they. Delhi’s got their backs. There are 11 state bhawans in Delhi with the most original authentic cuisines you’ll find. There’s no need for you to leave the city if you’re homesick or in the mood to discover new homes. If you want a taste of culture you’ve never tried before, just head to these amazing food places.
1. Viva O’ Viva, Goa Niwas
Goa means sun and snad right? Maybe when we were full. What Goa really means is sea food and pina coladas. Goa state bhavan will soak you in peri peri prawn, and while the pina coladas are escapable, the live music for Goa feels is not. We all wish we could spend if not 12 then at least 6 months at the beach every year. We are working to turn our dreams into reality. Meanwhile, we eat here. They’re open from 12:30pm – 3:30pm and 7:30pm – 10:30pm.
Where: Goa Niwas, 14, Bir Tikendrajit Marg, Chankyapuri
2. Maharashtra Sadan
Bombay vada pao has been found in Delhi. Nothing beats Bombay people but we can beat the rains and get the best of both worlds. Bombay is all about the missal pao and Maharashtrian thali. If you’ve never been to Bombay, there’s no need to go now. Delhi is better anyway. What you do need to do is go here and eat! They’re open from 7am – 3pm and 7pm – 10pm.
Where: Behind Baroda House, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, India Gate
Also read: Best Sweet Shops In Delhi That Will Cure The Pain In Every Sweet Tooth
3. Tamil Nadu House
Another popular state bhavan that never lets Dilliwale get homesick. This city allows its people to have multiple identities and ethnicities. The chicken chettinad will give you a whiff of south without the dhotis in your face. Doesn’t that sound lovely? They’re open from 7am – 11am, 12:30pm – 3:30pm and 7pm – 10pm.
Where: Opposite Chanakya Theatre, Chanakyapuri
4. Samridhi, Kerala House
Malabar paratha will take you straight to Malabar coast. Their non vegetarian south Indian food is unlike any dosa place you’ve known. Ditch the dosa already, delve into real south india, the one with the masalas. Try their meat fry and definitely order chaas to keep your palette cool. They’re open from 12:45pm – 3pm and 7pm – 9:30pm.
Where: 3, Jantar Mantar Road, Near Patel Chowk Metro Station, Janpath
5. The Potbelly, Bihar Niwas
They are so amazing they turned into a successful private chain all over the city. Bihari food never had more traction before this. The restaurants pulled a lot of traffic to the state bhavan too. Liti Chokha and sattu paani have turned into people’s favourites. The best part about them is their unique décor, cute café rooftop feels. They’re open from 1pm – 11pm.
Where: Bihar Niwas, Plot 15, Behind Yashwant Place, Chanakyapuri
Also read: Delhi! Your Favourite Food Festival Is Back And That Too With DIVINE!
6. Andhra Bhavan
This state bhawan is a state favourite. It is arguably the best and most popular of all canteens in Delhi. It’s mostly over crowded but service is quick and simple. The breakfast here is not only a treat for your stomach but also your eyes. It’s great to find fellow hungrymen stuffing dosa and vada in their mouths. Their Andhra thali is really good too! It’s open from 8am – 10:30am, 12noon – 3pm and 7:30pm – 10pm.
Where: 1,Ashoka Road, Near Feroze Shah Road
7. Gujarat Bhavan
Gujjus are sweethearts who are determined to turn you into one too. The way to do this, according to them, is to feed you sweet food until you choke on it. When you’re eating voluntarily though, without a hidden agenda, you end up overeating too. The khichdi and kadhi are specialties here. They open from 8am – 10am, 12:30pm – 2:30pm and 7:30pm – 10pm.
Where: 11, Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri
8. Bijoli Grill, Banga Bhavan
Aam Bangla baashi. We hope that means we love Bengali food to its core. This state bhavan is the best for its authenticity not just in food but also in vibe. The walls are alight with candour all the time. Their Luchi and Daab Lingri are great for experimental days. The fish otherwise is always a safe bet. They’re open from 1pm – 4pm and 6pm – 10pm.
Where: 3, Hailey Road, Barakhamba Road
9. Karnataka Food Centre
If you plan to go here on the weekends, think again. Or at least be prepared to wait. The food here will take you straight to Karnataka with the very first bite. The filter coffee is just the jerk you need for a fresh day. Any place feels like vacation when you have food that’s so good. Their basics are done right with the best uttapam, umpa and mysore masala dosa in town. They’re open 8am – 11 PM.
Where: Delhi Karnataka Sangh Building, R K Puram
10. Baankaahi, Assam Bhavan
The north east has never been closer. Their food is so good we swear if you close your eyes you’ll forget where you are. Don’t bat an eyelash while making plans to eat this. It’ll lead you to the land of fish tenga and you will want nothing more. Over the years this canteen has evolved into a delivery only place. The food is still just as good if not better. They’re open from noon to 1030 PM.
Where: Assam Bhawan, 1, Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri
11. Jammu and Kashmir House
Kashmiri bhavan canteen will remind us of what Kashmir has always been. Indians might not be able to get in and out of Kashmir, but Kashmir will always be with us. It is not its land or its food, it is its people. That’s what the food is representative of. Its people have always been ours and we hope their delicious Waazwaan will keep this spirit alive in us forever. They’re open from 12:30pm – 2pm and 7:30pm – 9pm.
Where: 9, Kautilya Marg, Chankyapuri
Also read: Head To Delhi’s Iconic Signature Bridge Before It Shuts Down After Diwali!
Travel without budget, without time, without effort. All you need is a large appetite. Get teleported to these 11 states whenever you like. These state bhavan canteens are better than you think. Delhi keeps all its citizens happy and full, no matter where they’re from or what they like. Be treated like a Goan local right here in Delhi. Get going!