Tag: Delhi

What makes Delhi, Dilli – 3

The Final Chapter of the trilogy, thus begins.

Delhi, the city with a heart has been featured, loved and adored with artists of all types of media. Whether it is Journalism or Film making, it is song writing or singing it, whether it is blog writing or writing professionally; most of the artists have had a love tryst with the city and continue to do so. But people from other places wonder why? People new to this city cry, what is the hue and cry about this city? It is only after you have lived in the city long enough that you feel its love swallowing you complete. That you feel yourself falling for a city which you didn’t understand just some time ago. Let’s try and comprehend the city and why you will love it!!

The modern symphony:

Delhi is one of the oldest inhabited city, no doubt. But this does not make the city ageing. The city with the evolution of time has grown dynamically. And the goading sign of the city’s modern outlook that appeals to people is its dense Metro network. The Delhi Metro is one of the longest fully functional Rapid Transport System in the world. The Metro system augments the Delhi suburban rail system and the fleet of Delhi Transport Corporation bus system. This requirement of today was just a dream in the pipelines a decade ago. The Delhi Metro has been a pioneer in harbouring in a new era of mass urban transportation in India. The swanky Metro system brought about a comfortable, air conditioned and eco-friendly services for the first time in India and completely revolutionized the mass transportation scenario in Delhi. Besides carrying millions of people every day, the Metro also reduced the pollution levels in the city by 6.3 lakh tons every year since its inception. The DMRC is enroute to adding another 140 kilometres to its already labyrinthine 193 kilometres. So, anywhere you see the Delhi Metro, it gives you the special feel of living in a New York styled Metropolitan with a quick and accessible Transportation System.

India Gate:

One of the landmarks of the city, showcased in every Delhi based movie is the magnanimous India Gate. The India was originally called the All-India War memorial and is a memorial located just besides the Rajpath. India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and is a magnificent piece of architecture often drawing comparisons with the Arch of Constantine and Arc de Triomphe in Paris. This memorable landmark was built to commemorate the thousands of Indian soldiers who have died in wars outside and inside the country. This arch shaped marvel has the names of some 13,300 servicemen inscribed on its body, eternally commemorating them. After the Bangladesh liberation war in 1971 a black marble plinth like structure was erected underneath the great arch of India Gate. This plinth is surrounded by four flames and is covered with an army man’s helmet. This structure is called the Amar Jawan Jyoti or the Flame of the Immortal Soldier.

But besides the historic reference, India Gate today is one of the hot spots for picnic for the modern nuclear family. India Gate, is surrounded by many Ice-Cream vendors and balloon sellers which make it worthwhile for the kids to hang around the place. For the elders in the family, the lawns of India Gate serve as a detoxifying day out, away from all their routine tensions and monotonous schedules of their work life. A day out at the India Gate is counted as a well spent day with your family and is a must for any new visitor in town.

The Red Fort:

Red fort was constructed when Shah Jahan decided to shift his capital from Agra to red Fort. The great Red ‘Bindi’ on Delhi’s construction started in 1639. And it took a whopping 8 years for it to complete. Initially its name was Qila-i-Mubarak and it was Delhi’s first fort. A magnificent one at that. It had 2 km long running walls whose main was to keep intruders out, but the mighty walls had to kneel down before the Sikhs and the British. The entire architecture is made from huge blocks of red sandstone. For the visitors of the town, there is a hour long light and music show every evening there which showcases the fort’s history. And since it is nearby chandni Chowk, you will be killing two birds with one stone, so go visit it as soon as you can.

Qutub Minar:

The qutub Minar has a speculative history at best. It was constructed in 1206 by Qutub-ud-din Aibak of the slave dynasty and is currently the tallest brick minaret in India. Some say that it was constructed as a sign of victory of the slave dynasty over India . whereas others say that it was merely constructed for the people so that they can be called for prayer. The brick minaret has five storeys and is 72.5m tall. People often flog the monument to get a moment or two of peace amidst their extremely busy schedules.

Jama Masjid:

The mausoleum constructed in the year 1656 in the heart of delhi is the largest mosque of the country. The lawns of the mosque can hold upto 25000 devotees at one time. Being in the vicinity of heavily crowded areas of chandni chowk and chawri bazaar, Jama Masjid has become quite a landmark in its own regard. On the different occasions of Eid, the muslim community often fills the mosque upto its brim. Before visiting it make shure that you cover your head, legs and bare hands.

Thus this concludes our little round up of things, food and places that make Delhi what it is and quite possibly the reason as to why people love it and other metropolitan cities don’t. the country’s love towards is unfathomable and once you visit and stay there for a period of time, it colors you in its own ink. Forever.

December 30, 2014
What makes Delhi, Dilli – 2

In the last tour de Delhi, we hopped onto some of the binges of Delhi, how the love affair of the nation started with Delhi, the great repertoire of Architectural marvels in Delhi and a touched the tip of the iceberg as to what makes you melt with love, when you hear the word Delhi. Today, we explore more.

The Bedmi and Nagori:

One relatively less known delicacy but nevertheless enjoyed to its zenith by the few loyal customers, the bedmi is a variety of Khasta Kachori smaller in size and more khasta by all means. This is what one could call the Kachori’s younger cousin. Filled in the epicentre with Semolina, carom seeds and grated peas, this delicacy melts in your mouth. Served along with our beloved aloo ki sabzi and halwa, you might have an oddity treat and might as well try mixing the two side dishes (The halwa and the aloo ki sabzi). This queer combination will make you reminiscent of the sweet and sour soup gone terribly wrong, but it’s a taste nevertheless. The Nagori is the youngest of the brood of Kachoris and more closely resembles the papadi that you get at a chaat stall. This also served along with aloo ki sabzi and halwa will give you plentiful of energy (And not to mention a truckload of calories) to roam the rest of Chandni Chowk with me.

The Punjabi Diaspora:

Delhi is borderline Punjab. Geographically and literally. Once you enter Delhi, you’ll see an equal number of turbans as you will see bare heads. That because, there was a huge exodus from the Punjab region during Delhi’s early industrialization days and also during the Punjab conflict periods. Thus there’s a mini Punjab residing in Delhi. And with their amazing good humor and tantalizing cuisines come along the mighty and revered Gurudwaras. Gurudwaras are the worship place for Sikhs. Here Sikhs spend quite a lot of time serving other people as they faithfully believe in the quote “ Service to mankind is Service to God.” There are a plenty of Gurudwaras in and around Delhi and the best part of visiting them is the tasteful ‘Langar’. Langar is the lunch that is served in Gurudwaras to everyone who visits them. Large langars are organized where people sit on elongated jute mats on the floor and eat out of leaf plates. The langar, anywhere, in any gurudwara is something to be DEFINITELY had if you ever get the lucky chance to visit Delhi. Daal is a must in every Langar. Along with it Halwa, aloo ki sabzi and poori make your lunch hearty and eventful. There are two large Gurudwaras in Delhi to which people flog on from places far and beyond. These are The SeesGanj Sahib and The Bangla Sahib. Both are lakes of tranquillity and you will feel emancipated from all your worries and ill humoured feelings, once you enter the complex. Visit these if you are looking for serenity and a meal full of love and affection.

Kareem’s and Khan Chacha:

Chicken = Kareem’s. Kareem’s = Chicken.

Chicken = Khan Chacha. Khan Chacha = Chicken.

Kareem’s = Chicken = Khan Chacha.

One’s trip to Delhi will be wasteful, if he goes to Delhi but does not visit any of the above mentioned place. Both these places have been established in Delhi for the last 100 years or so and have been constantly providing the people of Delhi with an indispensable service ever since. The service of good food. Or more specifically, the service of Great Chicken. Khan Chacha and Kareem’s both are known for their Mughal style Chicken which they both offer in Chandni Chowk. The shop is tiny but the crowd of buyers: mammoth. Both of them provide exceptional Tandoori Chicken and Kebabs. Their extraordinary skills lie in providing with dry chicken variety. They specialize in Seekh kebab, Shammi kebab, mutton burra kebab, mutton stew and the rann (goat’s leg). These leave you with the exact smoky flavour that should be left after having a tandoori meal and also bestows upon you the feel of the grill.

Connaught Place:

What makes Delhi, Dilli you ask. One of the reasons of Delhi’s uniqueness is Connaught Place. Two British Built market places in circular shape around a gigantic park in between. Sounds confusing? Well, it is. But in earnest Connaught Place is one stop destination for all the top notch brands anywhere in the world. Until one hasn’t a shop in Connaught Place, he/she is too amateur to go global. A beautiful set of buildings all dressed up in white just like a catholic wife-to-be in circular shape mark the inner circle and the outer circle. A market place to take a stroll ith your friends or go bridal shopping; A day to enjoy Delhi in one glance and a hurried shopping session; everything happens at Connaught Place.

‘THE’ Palika Bazaar:

Ever heard of an underground market place? Palika is one. No, it is not underground as in illegal, it is underground as in, it is literally 400 bunch of shops UNDER-the –GROUND. Remember how the Connought Place is circled around a gigantic park? Well this is a market place under that gigantic park. Palika is every women’s dream destination. Because you get the best of fashion labels at throw away prices. Loads of accessories, clothing, body tattoo shops throng the Palika. Men, don’t be disappointed. There’s something for you too, down there. Palika has men’s fashion outlets too, but more amazingly it has an entire bunch of shops that sell cheap China built Electronics gadgetry. So, next time you want a pen camera or a big grizzly transforming car, you can always go to the underground market.

So, we made a tiny bit of progress in learning about Delhi. But don’t get tired yet, there’s more of Delhi to come.. Stay tuned.

December 30, 2014
What makes Delhi, Dilli…

A very long time ago when the heart of our nation was not famous for its countless rapes, an absent Government and Mufflerman; there was actually a city and a world inside that city that everybody loved. What made Delhi earn the jealousy of other metropolitan cities in the country, what is it that made Delhi stand shoulder to shoulder with Mumbai, the economic capital of India. Why is it that, people who have ever stayed in Delhi leave it with a heavy heart and tell everyone else that they can’t understand the emotions attached with the city if they have never ever lived in the city. Let’s find out!

The Beginning of the Real Delhi:

Now, the love for Delhi started long back when the Mughals transferred the Capital of India from Agra to Delhi. This is when the real on-ground transformations started taking place in Delhi. Before this move, people were as oblivious of Delhi as they were of any village in India. Firstly, with the onset of Mughals came along great Architectural Feats. For example Delhi boasts of the largest Brick Minaret in the world the Qutub Minar (well, it was built by Qutubbudin Aibek), it flaunts one of the largest mausoleums in India – The Jama Masjid, It carries reticence with its Old Fort. Also the Red Fort that instills in us a feeling of patriotism whenever we see it on our TV sets. All these Architectural marvels brought a Mughal charm to this city of ours and elevated it above its neighboring cities.

Dilli and the finger licking tales:

Along with the great architectural skill set of the Mughals arrived in Delhi their eternally pristine culinary taste. Their food was not just food, but Art on Stove. The Tandoori murg, The kadhai paneer, the Nihari,the Paya, the Kachri Qeema, the Delhi-mein-world-famous-Mughlai Chicken, their biryani style and countless others set the tongues of the native Delhiites wagging. Not only did their cuisine establish itself in Delhi, it even grew there. More and more dishes were invented as an amalgamation of Delhi and Mughlai cuisines. This was a great culinary juxtaposition just waiting to happen. Seemed like this match was made in heaven. So, the Mughlai cuisine added one more feather to Delhi’s hat.

Asli Delhi, Purani Dilli:

Now, the heart of the Heart of the Nation. The Chandni Chowk and Chawri Bazaar area. For those new to the maps of Delhi, these areas lie in the center of Delhi and still boast of historic architecture. These areas are famous for their super cramped streets, the always bustling crowd and nagging shopkeepers always trying to sell you substandard products. By the names in the list, all these seem to be pretty depressing by the levels of the national capital. But once you visit the place it seems just like your extended neighbourhood. It won’t seem as a market place to you, but a big great family living in harmony yet tearing each other’s hair out. But there is a lot to watch out for in the Purani Dilli area. Since it is a crowded marketplace, pickpockets are always on the prowl. Also some shopkeepers tend to get too close for comfort levels in order to get their products sold. But every coin has two sides and prefer to see the loved one here please. Purani Dilli broken up and explained in pieces in the next points, because it ain’t so small that it can be contained in one measly point.

The Paranthewaali gali:

Now, now, now. Every once in a while a moment comes in every person’s life that can’t be expressed even if you keep squealing with delight for a fortnight. For a foodie that moment would come when he enters the paraanthe waale gali. The lane where our Bollywood Star Akshay Kumar slaved and toiled for many years. The paraanthe waali gali is an even narrower lane than what already was a cramped main road of Chandni Chowk. There are a multitudes of shops there only selling paranthas. But mind you, these are not ordinary paranthas, these are paranthas made of Rabri, Paranthas made of bitter gourd and paranthas made of lady finger and all the odd vegetables and sweets you can ever garner. And these are not made on a pan or a stove, these aranthas are deep fried just like samosas and tikkis are. Your whole perception of paranthas changes after entering this foodie paradise. This narrow lane adds another dimension to your notion of parantha, by doing something with it that was unimaginable before this.

The Japanese Samosa:

Well, to be honest, this is just sold in one shop in the entire Chandni chowk. But I swear to God, that you won’t have eaten anything like this before this. This samosa’s shape is more or less like regular samosas but the corn flour covering on the outside is striped. Thus the Japanese samosa is not wholly covered but partially revealing. The inner filling forms the crux of the whole dish. It is not spicy or filled with mashed potatoes for that matter. It is filled with a sweet mixture like that of a halwa. Thus changing the whole thought process around the samosa. By just keeping the name and shape intact, this exquisite dish retain the name value and the ingenuous sweet filling inside and the striped contours give it a modern twist. And thus, the Japanese Sammosa, The tour of the real Delhi has just begun. However, even the most brilliant of writers and esteemed authors would fail in describing the exact charisma and fascination of the city. Such complexly woven is the feel of it. I am just a young scribe who is trying to portray to you an image that tells what exactly Delhi is, if you have have never been there or miss the hell out of that angelic city of yours. To be continued…

December 30, 2014
Culture of Delhi

Culture of Delhi

Delhi, the capital city of India has a unique culture.People from different parts of the country have settled in Delhi.So, Delhi has a mixed culture of all the states.It’s culture is considered as the culture of India as a whole.As it is the capital city of India, all the political discussions and decisions are taken here itself.Delhi is a mixture of modern lifestyle as well as old traditions and values.Different types of festivals are celebrated in Delhi.The Chhat puja of Bihar is celebrated grandly as the festival of Durga puja.The Muslim festival Eid ul Fitr and Punjabi festival Lohri are celebrated without any difference.In Delhi ,we can also see the cultures of Haryana, Uttarpradesh, Rajasthan and Punjab as these are the bordering states of Delhi.Different monuments, sculptures, places add additional beauty to the city.

History:

A pic showing history of Delhi

Delhi was treated as the capital of the Pandavas during Mahabharata.Delhi was considered as the cultural, political, and commercial capital of North-West India and the Gangetic Plains during the Delhi Sultanate era.During the period of Mughal empire,Shah Jahan built a new capital city named Shahjahanbad which is now called as old Delhi.During his rule he had built several gates like The Kashmiri Gate, Delhi Gate and Ajmeri Gate.In the year 1911,the Britishers have decided to shift the capital from Kolkata to Delhi.Then they slowly moved their capital to the partially built New Delhi in 1912.When the Britishers left India in 1947, New Delhi became the capital of India.

Architecture:

Sites-monuments-touristspots-architecture-of-Delhi

The city has the oldest buildings that belong to the early muslims.During the period of Khaljis, the Pashtun style has been indulged in the Islamic architecture.The typical features of their style are red stand stone surfaces with white marbles inlays and the windows are fitted with perforated screens.The best examples for this Pashtun architecture includes the Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, the Qutb Minar, the tomb of Iltumish and the Ala’i Gate.In Delhi ,the first Mughal architecture was the Humayun’s tomb.Later the Mughal architecture can be further seen within the red fort.It has massive red stone walls, entertainment halls, balconies, baths, indoor canals, gardens and also one highly decorated mosque.Jama Masjid is also one of the finest architecture bulit by the Mughal empires.Humayun’s tomb and Red fort are UNESCO world heritage sites.During the British colonial rule, they have built the President House (Rashtrapati Bhavan), Parliament and Secretariat buildings.After the Independence, India has aimed to develop its own architectural language in a synthesis between Western and local styles.We can see such type of architectural styles in the Supreme Court building, the Vigyan Bhavan (a conference centre), the Crafts Museum and offices of the various ministries.

Climate:

Climatic conditions of Delhi

Delhi has a unique type of climate.In Delhi the warm season lasts from the month of April to July with the temperature ranging from 25 degrees to 36 degrees.The cold season lasts from the month of December to February with the temperature ranging from 2 degrees to 18 degrees.Monsoon arrives at the end of June with an increase in humidity and the mild winter starts in late November, reaches peaks in January with heavy fog.The average annual rainfall is approximately 714 millimeters.Most of the rainfall occurs during the months of July and August.

Economy:

Economy of Delhi

Delhi is considered as the largest commercial center in Northern India.According to 2013 the per capital income of Delhi was Rs.210000, which is recorded as the highest in India.According to the economic survey, the tertiary sector contributes 70.95 percent of Delhi’s State Domestic Product, followed by the secondary and primary sectors with contributions of 25.20% and 3.85% respectively.The workforce in Delhi has increased by 52.52% from the year 1991 to 2001.In accordance with it the unemployment rate has decreased from 12.57% in 2000 to 4.63% in 2003.The key services that are being provided in Delhi are information technology, telecommunications, hotels, banking, media and tourism.Apart from them, construction, power, health, community services and real estate are also important to the city’s economy. Delhi is one of India’s largest and fastest growing retail industries.Manufacturing of goods has also increased considerably with the establishment of manufacturing units and headquarters in the city.

Cuisine:

Spicy street food in Delhi

Being the Capital city of India and centuries old Mughal capital, different food habits have been indulged in it and it is also a place where the Mughlai cuisine had originated.The dishes of Delhi like Kebab, Biryani, Tandoori has world wide popularity.The classic dishes like Butter chicken, Aloo chat, Chaat, Dahi vada, Kachori, Chole bhature, Jalebi and lassi are also famous dishes available in Delhi.Street food is commonly habituated food for the citizens of Delhi.Highway Dhabas offer spicy food at low cost which is popular among the residents of Delhi.Apart from them, we can see the popular restaurants like Karim Hotel, the Punjab Grill and Bukhara.A street in Chandini Chowk is particularly famous for food eateries since the 1870s.Almost the entire street is occupied by fast food stalls or street vendors.It has became so popular such that almost every prime minister of India has visited the street to eat Paratha at least once.However, other Indian cuisines are also available in this area.

September 13, 2014
Delhi’s Street Food

There are many cities in the world which are famous for their street food and without a doubt Delhi finds a place in that list. Delhi is not only the capital of India but also a place which has rich heritage and history behind it. Although Delhi is full of high end restaurants and hotels which provide excellent food and ambience, Delhi’s street foods have their own separate name and reputation. These street foods are famous for being delicious and exquisite. And so people are crazy towards these street foods. The best things about the Delhi’s street foods is that they are not only fabulous in taste but are also very much pocket friendly and so everybody can afford it. Further there are numerous options available so people can select the dish as per their choice. Once you taste the dishes which are sold here, you will surely not be able to stop yourself from going back to the same place again and enjoy these appetizing dishes. This article is dedicated to all those people who are very much passionate about trying new, delicious food items in Delhi.

Dilli Haat:

Everybody knows Dilli Haat as a place which is perfect for window shopping and so it is one of such places where the people love to visit. Dilli Haat is also known for the wide range of street food stalls selling the delicious dishes. You can find all type of Indian foods be it a North Indian cuisine or South Indian cuisine. There are also specific shops selling the food items from a particular state. For a person who loves to try new dishes, Dilli Haat is the perfect destination as they will find numerous options in one location.

Connaught Place:

Connaught Place is located into the heart of Delhi and it is one such place where the people living here love to visit. It is because this place not only has shops of almost all brands but also famous food chains, restaurants, clubs, five star hotels and street food stalls which are open till late night. The famous food items here are Mutton Samosa, wide range of chicken, mutton and fish dishes, vegetarian and non-vegetarian rolls, Rasqulla, Chole Bhature, Biryani and many more. You will certainly enjoy shopping here and when you will get hungry you will have enormous choice to choose from.

Chandni Chowk:

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest areas in Delhi and is often crowded with people coming here for shopping and offering prayers at the Jama Masjid. But without a doubt, the wide variety of street food which you can get in Chandni Chowk is simply unmatchable. You may be a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian; this place will surely make you happy with its exquisite dishes. You can visit the Karim’s if you love eating chicken and muttons. Else if you are a vegetarian, then you can simply walk into the Paranthe Wali Gali and get a taste of the delicious paranthas which are sold here from generations. Further you will also find Jalebi, Kachori, Dahi Bhalle, different types of Chatt, Lassi and Pakodas which will surely make you fall in love with them.

Khan Market:

Khan Market is one of the high end shopping markets in Delhi but the food items that are available here are very much pocket friendly and people simply love them. From noon till late mid night you will find variety of Chinese and Indian foods in various stalls. So the people living nearby Khan Market often pay visit in evening to taste the mouth-watering dishes that are sold here. Momos, Chilly Potatos, Soups, Corn and Chatt are the famous dishes in this place.

Pandara Road:

Pandara Road is another excellent place in Delhi where you will find delicious street foods. If you are a person who likes to eat spicy food, then this is the place you should visit. The Punjabi and the North Indian cuisines available in this place are simply amazing and eating here will surely be a delightful experience for you. Both for the non-vegetarians and the vegetarians there are tremendous options available and you will certainly not be disappointed with the food here. If you love Punjabi dishes then Pandara Road is the place you should visit as it has almost every dish which is made in Punjab and their preparation is so healthy and spicy that you will certainly feel like coming back to this place again.

Nehru Place:

Though out the day you will find Nehru Place filled with people as it is one of the biggest electronics market in India. But apart from the computer and electronic shops here, you will also find numerous food corners there. Again the Punjabi food is the most famous here. But then you can also find the food stalls offering the fast foods, continental and north Indian cuisines. The best thing about the food sold here is that they are delicious and healthy to eat. One simply gets a much desired relief after eating in the food stalls here.

June 24, 2014
JUICY LUCY:The King of Burgers.

Delhi Heights.
The size of a quarter plate,the width of about two and half inch,this giant burger called the juicy Lucy, stuffed with chicken,lettuce,fresh tomatoes and with an excess amount of cheese is probably the most loaded of all burgers available in India.The serving portions at the Cafe Delhi Heights are absolutely colossal and the taste and quality undoubtedly do take every possible measure to match the stature.A must eat on any visit to Cafe Delhi heights,the juicy Lucy comes across the most mind blowing of all things on its menu .

SUGGESTION:if you do not have much of an appetite ,go empty stomach,because finishing this Goliath of a burger is not David’s play{at least not with a full stomach,one may conquer this humongous portion with an empty tummy}. For those with a really healthy appetite,you shall definitely find yourself satiated (and stuffed). Putting aside the unputdownable matter of size and huge portions,and coming to the taste,the crispy double layered chicken patty with a molten center of cheese,crispy fresh lettuce and tomatoes,doused with mayonnaise and mustard sauce(optional) and cheese slices,soft burger buns that envelopes this entire wonder served with extra veggies on the side( to tone down the cheese effect).Bursts of flavor ,oozing cheese ,crispy patty and veggies in each bite,fill your mouth and surround your tongue in a scrumptious dance of taste.Bite after bite ,it satiates your appetite and as t dissolves on your tongue it keeps on swaying you back and forth on its savory swing.They have undoubtedly named this burger in the most apt fashion, “The Juicy Lucy” .

To add to the experience here comes the Banta soda ‘bottled’ up in a vessel that actually looks like a medium sized pickle jar ,a cool and refreshing drink with lemon slices and mint leaves floating in it,providing all the more for the thirst quenching factor.Depending on whether you opt for sweet,salted or mix soda,the taste varies yet they all are equivalently refreshing and quenching.A personal favorite ,the mix Banta Soda gives you the best of both worlds,and is an ideal beverage to accompany your food.Alert!cheese lovers ,here comes the open chicken burger,the ‘cheesiest’ of all burgers you may ever see,the specialty of this burger is that the buns are inverted and the stuffing is actually the topping.The most generous and extravagant amount of cheese and chicken in the most overwhelming of all preparations is set to stuff your stomach right up .The word huge itself finds a new meaning in the open chicken and cheese burger.It is the DEVIL of all cheese burgers,and after having this,eating even a single speck of food seems to be a task,an ordeal you shall find comparable to putting back the toothpaste you squeezed back inside the tube.a competitor of Juicy Lucy,the open chicken and cheese burger gives it a tough run in matters of quantity,though the taste of Juicy Lucy is any day more preferred than such an excessive dose of cheese and butter.

A statuary warning to people with cholesterol issues,and those trying to watch their calories,DO NOT even think of having a single bite from the open chicken and cheese burger!It can severely and majorly jeopardize your calorie,fat and cholesterol intake!For those looking for a good way to pamper their tastebuds,you have chosen rightly to eat at the cafe Delhi heights.and by ordering the Juicy Lucy with the banta soda,you have opted excellently.For the cheese lovers,the open chicken and cheeseburger is the ultimate form of spoiling yourself and pampering that knack of having cheese,ideal for those who can afford it health wise.With an appreciable set up and decor,this place is indeed one of the most sought after places by many and especially by youngsters for its energetic vibe,food and booze

As far as my experience goes,I have been only to the outlet in Gurgaon,though about one thing I am really sure about is that,people do have to line up to gain entry in this trendy place.With a friendly staff and a good service this place indeed is the hub of the feel good factor with the most pampering of all dishes.They offer the most simple of all dishes easily available on the streets with a very interesting makeover that is set to please your palate.Other than that,the pastas,the Lebanese dishes and other choices from the food variants are much appreciable.

Though in the list of must haves the Juicy Lucy tops the list.The show-stopper is absolutely worth every penny that you spend.And just in case you are worried about your capacity,here is the good news,you can always share it with a friend or your better half,it shall always provide for filling both your’s and the other person’s stomach without fail.Standing true to the big heart India possesses,to the larger than life motto that drives every Dilli wala and wali,Cafe Delhi Heights puts forth the humongous portions,be it food ,be it drinks ,offering amazing quality,service and the time of our lives on a plate.BON APPETITE!

June 13, 2014
CHICKEN CHOP SUEY TO THE RESCUE!

Ever had days when you desperately wanted to have something really tasty but was out of your budget?Or got scolded over the phone by your mother for not having something healthy?We all have had those days,and at such times its often noticed that we somehow come across memorable solutions.The ‘jugaad’ tech,the hunt for healthy or inexpensive food that would not bloat us into absolute wobbly humans as our mother warns us,memories of food arranged under such constraints is unforgettable.One such foodie experience is what I wish to share. Hungry,with not much in our pockets to pay, hearts that were reluctant to eat even a single morsel of street food,my friend and I,longed to have something proper,filling and within the budget of say around Rs.200,we racked our brains to work and come up with some decent place to eat.And each time,either the quantity seemed insufficient ,or the costs seemed too high.

With sheer dejection we de- boarded the metro at Green Park metro station,making a starved exit ,devoid of any ideas whatsoever,and there was the answer to our “no street ka khana” problem,a tiny air conditioned eatery stating to serve Chinese ,Thai and continental food,The Flaming Wok.From where we stood we could make out that it was a decent place,but what worried us was again the cost.Desperate to take the chance we walked in feeling the cool gust of air on our faces,we asked for the menu.At first our eyes lingered ,scanning for something that would fit our requirements,section after section we felt like penny less customers who were too hungry to leave and would eventually have to wash dishes to eat the scrumptious looking food they offered.But at the very end of it all we found our section,that of Chinese platter and combos.Having contemplated what would be better we zeroed down to the all time famous Chicken Chop Suey,keeping in mind that we must not regret what we ordered,after all being that hungry makes you no less cranky than an ancient quack.
Waiting in the neat space,seated on the beige coloured chair and table we had not much to look around ,except for an article of Hindustan Times praising the food served here and a certificate for the same.Convinced that though the place is not as huge as other restaurants are,it was well acclaimed for it’s food and service.As some time passed, about fifteen minutes or so ,having drank numerous glasses of water and a Minute Maid Pulpy Orange,we eagerly waited,controlling our pangs of hunger that wrecked havoc in our stomach ,there came a simmering bowl of chicken chopsuey,the oriental aroma tickled our nostrils,mouth watered at the thought of finally eating .

The manager cum waiter politely served us with our portions of the dish.And here I must mention,the quantity even after being served a plate full of the dish was still enough to be served to two more people.The chop suey,in corn coloured gravy ,loaded with vegetables and soft and long slices of chicken would have made any mother proud for seeing their child consume that good a quantity of broccoli,capsicum,cauliflower, lettuce,celery,baby corn ,beans and bell pepper.Colourful and extremely healthy from the variety of vegetables and the chicken soft and tender made the most spell binding harmony to the palate.The brown shaded noodles,crisp and non sticky, fried perfectly made the combination of the two even better.

With each bite ,a savory mix of crispy noodles,tender chicken pieces and well flavored vegetables that retained a slightly raw tinge to their crispiness in a perfectly simmered gravy,made us thankful for having discovered this place and selected this dish.A complete paisa vasool,the quantity was so good that we actually had to get the remaining chop suey packed.The best part about the taste of the chop suey was its balance between the typical Indian version of Chinese and that of the oriental Chinese.This subtle balance,and the evident play of spices and flavor,putting forth the right kind of bland an the right kind of taste adds to the beauty of the dish.

As students we have days of running low on budget,chidings on call for not having enough vegetables,of eating out,precautionary warnings of eating any street food etc though not many college kids can avoid eating out,they can definitely do something about the above mentioned constraints .Flaming Wok seems to be providing a good way to tackle such problems.Easy on the pocket,great to taste and filling for the tummy.A perfect buster of hunger pangs,this Chicken Chop Suey is without a doubt a healthy and delectable treat available at a very pocket friendly price.With other scumptious dishes available as well,The Flaming Wok provides genuine Chinese,Thai and continental dishes .Their prawn based dishes are also a common favorite .Their crispy lamb is yet another addition to the oriental express ,though the price may not be as easy on the pocket.The actual variety of dishes based on chicken,mutton,fish and prawn is really praiseworthy.

Though sadly enough the Flaming Wok is no longer functioning at the green park branch,another branch has been inaugurated at the C.R Park,Delhi.There are many other outlets around the city,though the fond memories of this particular branch is unforgettable.A happy addition to the available eateries,though the address is different,yet the tantalizing taste remains just the same.BON APPETTITE!

June 9, 2014
PANGS OF HUNGER :THE PARANTHA PARADISE

Beyond pizzas ,beyond sizzlers and yes way beyond every five star hotel’s food ,lies the PARANTHE WALI GALI in Chandni Chowk, Delhi.This city has a vast menu and a colossal buffet to satiate a foody’s taste buds,but one’s road to a finger licking dish is not complete in Delhi until and unless you venture into the scrumptious alley of Paranthas .

Every person that walks on the path of Chandni Chowk can easily point out the way to the Paranthe wali Gali.All you have to do is ask if your preferred way of exploring a new area is GPS free.be rest assured that the Paranthe wali Gali offers a lot more than just paranthas. Your first step in there ,and you will see sweet shops and eateries lined up offering you the Desi way of treating your palate and tummy.you name it and they have it.Gulab jamun ,Imarti,Jalebis ,Ras Gullas ,Mishti Doi ,Lassi, an unbelievable range of types of parathas ,whatever possible typical Delhi dish that you can name or think of is what will definitely make you hungrier than ever.
There is not just one eatery that will serve you a plate full of happiness but around dozens of such eateries ,situated in every nook and corner of that very place.

Beginning with the highlight of our foodie journey,that is ,parantha ,one would be absolutely amazed to see the types of paranthas available (even to an Indian ,let alone foreigners.!) .Well thought combinations of Paneer( Cottage cheese), Ghobi (cauliflower),Dal (pulses) ,mushroom ,Kashmiri,mirchi(chilly) and mix parantha are just a handful of the actual menu.These names are only the beginning of all things tasty.Enter any one eatery and you would see a framed photograph of some famous celebrity shaking hands with the cook.Guess we have no reason to doubt the taste and quality of any eatery.

Each of the available eatery is established since decades and is run by at least the third generation of the actual founder.At around 9’o clock in the morning you can visit this place throbbing with customers,the air a mix of orders being shouted out and the aroma of mouth watering food ,fresh pickle and chutney,topped off by the incense burning in a corner.
Having ordered your preferred choice of parantha,you will be served with a huge cabin plate filled with different types of pickles, syrups and chutneys .Aam(mango) pickle{sour and sweet} and chutney, nimbu (lemon) pickle{sour and sweet},hing ka achaar, Sonth ,mirchi(chilly) pickle etc are to name a few.
Within five to ten minutes ,the waiter arrives with the ordered parantha .Do not , at any cost be deceived or disappointed by the size of the parantha.not any bigger than a standard size quarter plate,it is well stuffed and cooked perfectly.regardless of its size,each bite melts into your mouth ,and even before you are able to finish half of that parantha,you will realize that it actually is quite filling.Not to forget the different varieties of appetizing raitas that they offer as well,along with plain,salted or sweet dahi.
Adding to the titillating aspect of your taste-buds,here comes lassi. A glass full of pure ,creamy lassi,be it sweet salted or mix would do justice to every gulp that you take .Who thought that such a non complicated dairy beverage could do wonders to the tongue and tummy.
After gorging on all that yummy food,it is never too late to enjoy something sweet,speaking of which,one would immediately find oneself in an identical state of a child in Charlie’s chocolate factory.Yes ,the treats are that amazing.
The mere sight of hot ,soft,spongy gulab jamuns being made in chashni(sugar syrup),the flawless design of crisp,juicy jalebis and imartis,the cool fragrance of ras gullas,would make space in your stomach in a mere matter of seconds.it takes a mere jiffy for each of these treats to envelope your taste-buds and catapult you to a savory sensation,that asks for more.For those who do not have Such a prominent sweet tooth can top there food with Bhalla Papdi and chaat,a place that serves you with the soft and crispy variety of all things that can be classified under the category of chaats and Gol Gappes.
You are going to return back home,stuffed like new year’s eve turkey ,happy, hail and hearty ,with a lingering taste of all that you ate.Never before would any memory of your’s had been as tasty as the one that you made in the Paranthe wali Gali.
It is obvious that not many of us enjoy the idea of street food and delicacies served by around the corner eateries,some of us might be sticklers for hygiene ,or simply that one might lack taste in desi food..Though it is worth the assurance and conviction,that one must visit the Paranthe wali gali ,at least once,and you are bound to be freed of any hesitation and hygiene issues that grasp your perspective otherwise.These eateries maintain good levels of hygiene,provide mineral water to drink and have freshly prepared stuffing .everything simmers,brews and cooks in plain sight.It is worth every penny that you spend and every step that you take.
So walk in to the paradise of Paranthas and numerous other street food items.

May 29, 2014