Karim's Delhi: Unraveling the Magic of Mughlai Flavors

Karim's® is an iconic restaurant in Delhi that has been serving mouthwatering Mughlai cuisine since 1913. Situated close to Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, the legendary restaurant is famous for its rich, flavorsome dishes. Royal in taste and slow-cooked to perfection, a visit to Karim’s is a foodie must-do.

Karim’s restaurant attracts locals, tourists and even celebrities from around. The ambience of this historical place, with delicious gravies and succulent kebabs, makes it one of the celebrated culinary destinations of Delhi still carrying on the taste from the Mughal era.

History and Background

Karim's was established in 1913 by Haji Karimuddin, who was one of the descendants of the royal chefs who had once served in the Mughal kitchens. He set up a small dhaba (roadside shop) near Jama Masjid and started serving food fit for kings. Well, soon his food became popular and that paved the way for a brand called Karim’s.

Today there is more than one outlet of Karim’s in Delhi itself and other places like Gurgaon, Bangalore and Ghaziabad as well. Though a few more outlets have come up, but they still believe in providing the same traditional taste to their customers.

Ambiance and Location

Karim’s® is tucked away in the bustling lanes of Old Delhi’s Jama Masjid area, adding to its charm.
The restaurant has a simple yet rustic ambiance, resembling a traditional Mughlai dhaba with wooden furniture and heritage décor.
Easily accessible from Chandni Chowk and Red Fort, it is a favorite stop for locals and tourists exploring Old Delhi.
With nearby attractions like Jama Masjid and the spice markets, visitors can enjoy a historic and flavorful experience.

Signature Dishes

Karim’s® menu comprises delectable Mughlai dishes which have not only passed the test of time, but continue to be a delight for royal palettes till date. Their Mutton Nihari, a slow-cooked stew, is generously spiced and goes best with mouth-melting Rumali Roti. The Mutton Korma has luscious gravy cooked in clarified butter (ghee) & fragrant spices.

Seekh Kebabs and Tandoori Roti are an all-time customer favourite as they offer a juicy, smoky bite straight from the tandoor. The Biryani is prepared using aromatic basmati rice and tender meat that makes it a must have! For dessert their creamy Kheer is perfect to finish off your meal on a sweet note!

Culinary Experience

Dining at Karim’s® feels like stepping into a Mughal feast, with dishes bursting with bold spices and rich flavors.
The staff is known for their warm hospitality, ensuring customers enjoy a smooth and satisfying meal.
The open kitchen allows diners to witness the live preparation of kebabs and tandoori dishes, adding to the experience.
With its original recipes and consistent taste since 1913, Karim’s continues to be a culinary landmark.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Karim’s has a loyal fan base, with patrons praising its authenticity and mouthwatering dishes. Many describe the Mutton Seekh Kebabs as "juicy and perfectly spiced," while others love the "tender, flavorful meat" in the Nihari. Regular visitors often highlight its nostalgic charm and traditional cooking methods.

Food critics, bloggers, and platforms like Zomato and Instagram frequently feature Karim’s, boosting its hype. Even international tourists make it a point to dine here, proving that its legacy remains strong in 2024.

Conclusion

Karim’s is not just a restaurant, it’s a hub. Everything from their iconic kebabs to the slow-cooked stews just ooze the flavors of Mughlai food. I think every Delhiite (and even tourists) has to visit if they want to have a memorable meal in the city.

If you love Mughlai food, then Karim’s at Gali Kababian is where you need to be to make yourself feel like royalty. Don’t forget that you can share your reviews and pictures on LinkedIn, Zomato or Instagram, and become part of their growing legacy!

Direction of Karim’s

FAQs Related to Karim’s

What is Karim's famous for?
Karim's® is renowned for its authentic Mughlai cuisine, serving dishes like Mutton Nihari, Seekh Kebabs, and Biryani since 1913.
Where is the original Karim's located?
The flagship restaurant is situated at 16, Gali Kababian, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi, 110006.
How many Karim's outlets are there?
As of 2024, Karim's® has over 140 branches across India, including locations in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, and Bangalore.

Karim's Delhi: Unraveling the Magic of Mughlai Flavors