When we talk about Mughlai street food in India, there is hardly ever a discussion that goes by without the mention of Khan Chacha restaurants in Delhi. Such is the popularity of the place that it attracts a large number of food enthusiasts on a daily basis, irrespective of the time or occasion. Owned by prominent restaurateur Navneet Kalra, Khan Chacha has grown to become an iconic name that needs no introduction.
But what makes Khan Chacha restaurants so popular? Is it the just the food, the location, the management, or the combination of all? We decided to look for answers and dropped by at the much famed food joint. The outlet we chose for our visit was the one where it all began – the very first Khan Chacha restaurant in Delhi which is located in the uber posh Khan Market area. What we didn’t expect was the treat we were in for!
Owned by Navneet Kalra Khan Chacha restaurant is a gem hidden in the myriad narrow lanes of Khan Market. Legend says that it is the very first food outlet in the national capital that introduced Delhiites to the heavenly taste of Kathi rolls. The role that Khan Chacha has played in revolutionizing Mughlai cuisine in the heartland of the country is undebatable. Perhaps that’s why even after being around for decades, the demand for food at Khan Chacha has never staggered.
As soon as you step inside the food joint, the distinct aroma of spices finds its way to you and leaves you craving for anything and everything that the place has to offer. The Navneet Kalra-owned restaurant has a carefully curated menu, much like his other restaurants that are located in close vicinity. However, if you ask any person with a sound interest in food about what Khan Chacha specializes in, they will probably answer with tandoori tikkas and kebabs.
Everything from the peppy ambience to the mouth-watering food at Navneet Kalra’s Khan Chacha makes you feel welcomed. And to add spice to the pot (pun intended), your visit to Khan Chacha might end you up running into celebrities. Whether it’s ace cricketers like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, or Bollywood A-listers like Ranbir Kapoor and Sangeet Bijlani – the eternal magic of Khan Chacha allures them all. Delectable food with a signature taste is what makes the restaurant a great hit amongst food lovers. But that’s not the only thing that makes it iconic. An unprecedented amalgamation of modern ambience with decades-old recipes, brought about by Khan Chacha owner Navneet Kalra – that’s where the true essence of its success lies.
