India boasts a rich food culture, as it stands out with seven restaurants listed under the prestigious ‘100 Most Iconic Restaurants in the World 2024.’ Known for their fine cuisine, historical importance, and cultural influence, the listed restaurants represent the diverse aspects of Indian cuisine. Some of these include…
Paragon Restaurant, Kozhikode
Established in the year 1939, this restaurant in Kerala’s culinary hub, Kozhikode is synonymous with Biryani, a dish that is perfectly flavoured with spices and succulent meat along with aromatic rice. Through its decades, Paragon has been the destination for foodies and lovers of good food, a true taste of Malabar’s best.
Peter Cat, Kolkata
This iconic restaurant in Kolkata’s Park Street is famous for its Persian-inspired Chelow Kebab and was first discovered in the year 1975. Peter Cat has remained a place with charm and culinary excellence as a symbol of Kolkata’s vibrant food culture. Retro decor and consistently delicious food make it an all-time favourite among locals as well as tourists.
Amrik Sukhdev, Murthal (Delhi)
Situated on the bustling highways of Murthal, Amrik Sukhdev is a culinary haven for travellers. Famous for buttery aloo parathas served with dollops of white butter and sour pickles, this dhaba-style eatery combines rustic flavours with an unparalleled dining experience. This restaurant was founded in the year 1956.
Karim’s, New Delhi
Karim’s is a legend in Old City, Delhi and has been serving Mughlai delicacies for more than a century. The rich and flavour-filled korma at Karim’s, made from the age-old recipes passed on to generations, reflects the rich culinary heritage of India’s capital. Karim’s has been serving the people of Delhi since 1913.
Central Tiffin Room (CTR), Bengaluru
Established in the year 1953, Central Tiffin Room in Bangaluru is one of the places famous for Masala Dosas that remain crispy and golden. When accompanied by spicy chutneys and flavorful sambhar, CTR makes generations of diners sway to its authentic flavours.
Gulati, New Delhi
When it comes to the best place in Delhi for Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani, most of people prefer going to Gulati’s, which has been a culinary icon in New Delhi for decades, drawing food lovers with its legendary butter chicken. The creamy and perfectly spiced dish has become synonymous with Indian comfort food and is a staple for locals and visitors alike. This iconic restaurant has been serving people since 1959.
Ram Acharya, Mumbai
Operating since 1939, this place is known for its simple yet satisfying dishes, Ram Acharya in Mumbai has been a favourite for breakfast and light meals. Its signature Upma, a flavorful semolina dish cooked with spices and vegetables, reflects the subtle yet profound flavours of Indian vegetarian cuisine.
Come this Christmas season, and visit any of these legendary eateries or replicate dishes at home, to live Indian culinary culture at their first-hand.
(Images courtesy: Canva)