Forget Old Delhi, Zakir Nagar might just be Delhi's most underrated food hub

Yes, Old Delhi is iconic when it comes to its food, but that doesn't mean we can be dismissive of the amazing fare served in Delhi's Zakir Nagar.

In Short

• Zakir Nagar is gaining popularity as a new food destination in Delhi
• The area offers a variety of authentic Mughlai dishes
• Shafiq Chicken Corner is known for its rich butter chicken tikka

Yes, Ramadan is over, but does that mean we can’t talk about good Mughlai food or the places that serve the best? Since we heard a resounding “no”, we thought it was in our readers’ best interest to introduce them to a new food destination in Delhi - Zakir Nagar, which is located near Jamia Millia Islamia.

For the longest time, Old Delhi has worn the crown for serving the best Mughlai food—a place people flock to every Ramzan, and rightfully so. But does that mean there’s no competition? That would be dismissive of what’s cooking in one of Delhi’s busiest areas—Zakir Nagar, which turns into a buzzing food hub every evening.

If Old Delhi is known for its heritage flavours and dishes, Zakir Nagar is slowly but steadily grabbing a spot on every foodie’s bucket list. Because for every Aslam Butter Chicken served there, there is Shafiq’s butter chicken tikka here—quietly, but surely, gaining brownie points.

And if you need some guidance to navigate through the bustling streets of this marvellous food hub, read on, we have some great recommendations.

Shafiq Chicken Corner: If you love Aslam Butter Chicken and make frequent trips to get your hands on that luscious, butter- and cream-drenched chicken tikka, this is where you should start your food journey in Zakir Nagar. No counting calories—this one is loaded with cream, butter, and all things indulgent.

Gulbahar Chicken Fry: We are still clueless why people end up going to KFC for fried chicken because, honestly, our homegrown joints do it better. Head to Gulbahar for just one thing—their fried chicken or fish. Pair it with roomali roti and your choice of aerated drink. Rest assured, you won’t regret it.

Javed Famous Nahari: If the name already says it’s famous for one dish, should you even second-guess visiting? Absolutely not. Their nihari is prepared in pure desi ghee, and before you know it, you’ll have devoured a plate with their soft, fluffy khamiri roti, a combination made in heaven. They do have other options like stew, chicken korma, and biryani, but we suggest you stick to the OG.

Talib Kebab Corner: It’s not a fancy eatery, but the flavours here will keep you coming back. A simple recipe elevated by secret spices passed down from the owner’s maternal uncle. No showsha—just honest, lip-smacking food.

Lucknowi Galawati Kebab: Can’t make it to Tunday Kababi in Lucknow? This spot in Zakir Nagar will more than satisfy your galawati kebab cravings.

Javed Bawarchi: Head here for their stew and mutton korma with khamiri roti. Expect a burst of flavours that will leave you impressed.

Most of these shops are operational from 6 pm to 11 pm. If you’re a fan of Old Delhi’s food scene, this trip to Zakir Nagar may come as a surprise. And who knows—you might just discover a few hidden gems of your own to recommend to your friends for their next trip.

- Ends