World Vegetarian Day, observed annually on October 1, is an occasion to celebrate vegetarian food and its place in everyday life. In Delhi, the tradition stretches back decades, with old eateries serving everything from stuffed naans and chole bhature to dahi bhalla and South Indian classics. Across Chandni Chowk, Paharganj and Connaught Place, these restaurants have built loyal followings by keeping familiar flavours on the menu.
Here are five old vegetarian restaurants in Delhi that continue to be part of the city’s food culture.
Kake Di Hatti, Chandni Chowk
Established in 1942, Kake Di Hatti has grown from a modest eatery in Old Delhi into a well-known name for Punjabi vegetarian food. The restaurant is particularly popular for its oversized stuffed naans, served with accompaniments such as dal makhani and chole. Its hearty North Indian menu continues to draw visitors exploring the busy lanes of Chandni Chowk.
Natraj Dahi Bhalla, Chandni Chowk
Established in 1940, Natraj Dahi Bhalla is known for keeping its menu focused on two Old Delhi favourites: dahi bhalla and aloo tikki. Located in Chandni Chowk, the small outlet has remained a familiar stop for those looking to sample traditional chaat. Its simple menu and long-standing reputation have made it a part of the area’s food trail.
Sita Ram Diwan Chand, Paharganj
Sita Ram Diwan Chand traces its beginnings to a humble cart in Paharganj in the 1950s. The family-run business eventually moved into a shop and built a following for its chole bhature. The combination of spicy chickpeas and fluffy bhature remains the main attraction, drawing regular customers and food enthusiasts to the outlet in Chuna Mandi.
Dasaprakash, Connaught Place
Dasaprakash brings a long history of South Indian vegetarian dining to Connaught Place. While the brand traces its origins to 1921, its Delhi chapter began in 1979, when it opened at the Ambassador Hotel. Known for its dosas, idlis and traditional South Indian thalis, the restaurant offers an alternative to the South and North Indian fare associated with many of Delhi’s older eateries.
Fateh Chand Kachori, Civil Lines
Operating since the 1940s, Fateh Chand Kachori is a legendary street-food staple in North Delhi. Started by Fateh Chand, the stall became famous for its crisp kachoris topped with spiced chickpeas, sweet-and-sour chutney and chopped onions. Originally served outside St. Xavier’s School, this spot has fed generations, from school students to college-goers and street-food lovers, retaining its iconic place in Delhi’s food heritage.
From the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk to the busy streets of Paharganj, these five eateries reflect Delhi’s diverse vegetarian food culture, where generations of diners continue to return to familiar flavours.
