A timeless taste: Chicken Inn’s journey from Delhi to Gurugram

Gurugram: When you step into Chicken Inn’s Gurugram outlet, you’re greeted with more than just the aroma of tantalising spices. The walls, adorned with photographs of Delhi’s iconic monuments, tell stories of the brand’s humble beginnings in Pandara Road Market in 1960.

This new location, steeped in nostalgia yet infused with modern design, continues a legacy that has shaped Delhi’s culinary scene for over six decades. For the Arora family, this expansion is about preserving history while inviting a new generation to experience it.

The roots of a legend

It all began in 1960 when a passionate 22-year-old, Shri Asanand Arora, opened a small eatery at Pandara Road. With a love for food and hospitality, he introduced dishes like Fish Tikka and Burra Kebabs, which quickly became favourites. Today, the Arora family’s third generation upholds his legacy, blending age-old recipes with contemporary trends.

Over the years, the restaurant became a landmark known for its unpretentious, flavourful dishes. Speaking about the journey, Aman Arora, Managing Partner at Chicken Inn, told Patriot, “Chicken Inn was founded with the belief that food should bring people together.”

“My grandfather’s dream was to create a place where everyone felt at home, and his recipes are still at the heart of what we do today,” Arora said.

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A culinary journey through time

The menu at Chicken Inn Gurugram showcases timeless classics like Butter Chicken, Burra Kebabs, and Dal Makhani—recipes passed down through generations.

“Our Butter Chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s a memory,” Arora says with a smile. “It’s the same recipe my grandfather perfected. It’s rich, velvety, and balanced in a way that makes it hard to stop eating.”

The Burra Kebabs and Dal Makhani further cement Chicken Inn’s reputation as a go-to for North Indian cuisine.

But there’s more to the menu than nostalgia. With dishes like dim sum, grilled pineapple, and raan, the restaurant caters to diverse tastes. Vegetarian offerings like Tandoori Malai Broccoli and Bharwa Tandoori Aloo are crafted with equal care.

Seasonal specials add an element of surprise. In winter, customers enjoy sarson ka saag with makki ki roti, and for dessert, the gajar ka halwa offers a sweet finish. Seasonal specials add an element of surprise. In winter, customers enjoy sarson ka saag with makki ki roti, and for dessert, the gajar ka halwa offers a sweet finish.

A feast for the senses

The interiors of the Gurugram outlet reflect a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. While the photo frames of Delhi’s monuments pay homage to the brand’s origins, the sleek furniture and ambient lighting bring in a contemporary flair.

“The design was intentional,” said Arora. “We wanted people to feel a connection to Delhi’s heritage, even as they enjoy the comforts of a modern dining space.”

The restaurant is spacious yet cosy, ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The bar offers a variety of cocktails that complement the robust menu.

More than just a meal

For the Arora family, Chicken Inn has always been about more than just serving food. It’s about creating an experience that stays with you long after the meal is over.

“Our goal has always been to offer comfort on a plate,” Arora shares. “Whether it’s the spices in our curries or the smoky aroma of our tandoor, we want every bite to remind our customers of why they fell in love with North Indian food in the first place.”

The Gurugram outlet embodies this philosophy. Families come for hearty meals, while friends gather for a quick bite or shared plates.

Carrying forward a legacy

As Chicken Inn steps into its seventh decade, the Aroras are determined to keep the essence of the brand alive while evolving to meet changing tastes.

“We’ve seen food trends come and go, but our focus has always been on authenticity,” Arora says. “That’s not something we’re willing to compromise on, no matter how much we grow.”

This commitment extends to their plans for the future. With the success of the Gurugram outlet, the family plans new locations.

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A taste of timelessness

What sets Chicken Inn apart isn’t just its food but the emotions it evokes. For many Delhiites, the brand is a part of their childhood—a place where families celebrated milestones and friends bonded over shared plates of Butter Chicken and Naan.

At the Gurugram outlet, these memories are recreated for a new audience. Diners come for the flavours and leave with a sense of connection.

Must-try dishes

If you’re planning a visit, start with the classic Butter Chicken and Burra Kebabs—they’re iconic for a reason. For vegetarians, the Tandoori Malai Broccoli is a must try, offering a creamy yet smoky profile that’s hard to resist.

The dim sum and grilled pineapple provide lighter, contemporary options, while the raan makes for a showstopping centrepiece for any gathering. And don’t leave without indulging in the seasonal Gajar ka Halwa—it’s pure nostalgia on a plate.

From Delhi, with love

As Chicken Inn carves out its place in Gurugram, one thing is clear: this isn’t just another restaurant opening. It’s a celebration of a legacy, a tribute to a city, and a promise to keep serving the flavours that Delhi and now Gurugram love.

“Food is about more than taste,” Arora said. “It’s about memories, emotions, and stories. And at Chicken Inn, every dish has a story to tell.”