Nestled deep within the lanes of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, Paranthe Wali Gali is one of India’s most iconic food destinations — a narrow street famous for its sizzling, stuffed paranthas that have been a staple of Delhi’s culinary landscape for over a century. Locals, food lovers, and tourists alike make it a must-visit stop on their Delhi itinerary to experience authentic North Indian flavors and rich food culture.
Paranthe Wali Gali History & Legacy
Paranthe Wali Gali isn’t just any street — it’s a living testimony to Delhi’s culinary heritage. The lane became famous in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Brahmin families opened shops selling stuffed paranthas that were vegetarian (often Jain-style, without onion or garlic) to cater to pilgrims and traders. These small shops gradually became legendary for their recipes and unique chutneys.
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Today, some of the original establishments are still in operation, run by generations of the same family, preserving age-old techniques and flavors that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Location & How to Reach
📍 Paranthe Wali Gali, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi, Delhi 110006 — located just off the main Chandni Chowk road near the Sis Ganj Gurudwara.
Getting Here:
- Metro: The nearest station is Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line). From the station, it’s a short walk through the bustling streets to the lane.
- Auto / Rickshaw: Easily available across Old Delhi — just ask for Paranthe Wali Gali near Chandni Chowk.
- On Foot: If you’re exploring Old Delhi, it’s just a pleasant stroll from many historic spots and markets.
Timings
Most parantha shops in the lane operate on similar schedules:
🕘 Opening Hours:
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily (sometimes shops stop taking new orders around 10:00 PM).
- Some vendors and allied eateries in and around the lane may open slightly earlier or close earlier than this, but 9 AM to 11 PM is the general rule of thumb.
Menu Highlights
Though the main draw is paranthas, the lane offers a variety of uniquely stuffed parathas and accompaniments:
Paranthas You Must Try
🫓 Classic Stuffed Paranthas
- Aloo Paratha (Potato)
- Paneer Paratha (Cottage cheese)
- Mix-Veg Paratha
- Methi / Gajar / Gobhi Paratha (Fenugreek / Carrot / Cauliflower)
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🌟 Unique & Traditional Stuffings
- Papad Parantha
- Banana Parantha
- Rabri Parantha
- Kaju & Meva (Nut) Paranthas
- Khoya Parantha
🔥 Authentic Serving Style:
Paranthas here are often cooked in deep iron kadhai (wok) with ghee or oil, giving them a crispy, indulgent texture — a style unique to this lane and different from typical home-made parathas.
Accompaniments & Sides
To complete the experience, paranthas are traditionally served with:
- Sweet Tamarind Chutney
- Mint Chutney
- Mixed Vegetable Pickles
- Aloo / Paneer Curry
- Sauteed Sweet Pumpkin
- Lassi (often in kulhads / clay cups)
These sides enhance the rich flavors and are essential parts of the Paranthe Wali Gali experience.
Price Guide
Paranthe Wali Gali used to be extremely budget-friendly, but prices have risen over the years due to demand and location popularity. However, the experience remains affordable compared to restaurant dining.
Approximate Price Ranges
💰 Parantha:
- Around ₹60–₹80 per piece according to visitor reports — though in many shops, you may be encouraged to order a minimum of two paranthas per person.
- Some iconic shops list parantha platters at around ₹150–₹200 for two people.
💰 Extras & Drinks:
- Lassi: ₹80 onwards
- Sides & Chutneys: Often included with paranthas, though specialty items may cost extra.
💡 Average per person: Expect roughly ₹150–₹250+ for a hearty meal (depends on how many paranthas and sides you order).
Note: Prices vary across different vendors — famous establishments and heritage shops tend to charge more than smaller, lesser-known stalls.
Top Eateries Within the Lane
The lane isn’t just one restaurant — it’s home to several iconic names:
🌟 Pt. Gaya Prasad Shiv Charan Paranthe Wala
One of the most famous and oldest — run by the sixth generation in the family. Known for mix-veg, almond, and other creative paranthas from early morning to night.
🥘 Pt. Kanhaiya Lal & Durga Prasad Paranthe Wale
A staple stop for traditional stuffed paranthas like paneer, banana, methi, and more.
🫓 Babu Ram Paranthe Wale
Popular for unique options like papad parantha, meva parantha, and rabri parantha.
🍽️ Kanwar Ji Bhagirath Mal and Other Side Eateries
Though not strictly parantha shops, these offer complementary snacks like chole bhature, cold coffee, badam milk, and more — enriching your Chandni Chowk food journey.
🍯 Rabri Bhandar
Perfect for a sweet end — try kulhad lassi, kesar pista lassi, khurchan, and traditional sweets.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
✅ Go Early or Weekdays: Chandni Chowk can get extremely crowded, especially evenings and weekends, so early visits (around opening time) can be more enjoyable.
✅ Cash Is King: Most stalls prefer cash payments.
✅ Hygiene Levels Vary: These are traditional street food setups — cleanliness standards differ from restaurants, so use your judgment.
✅ Try the Accompaniments: The chutneys and curries are as essential as the paranthas themselves.
Final Thoughts
Paranthe Wali Gali isn’t just about eating — it’s about experiencing history through food. Each shop tells a story of tradition, family legacy, and Delhi’s vibrant street culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, visiting this narrow lane promises a sensory journey — from rich aromas and sizzling griddles to flavorful bites and local chatter.
If your idea of food goes beyond mere consumption — where texture, history, and community matter — then Paranthe Wali Gali should definitely be on your list when in Delhi.
Priya Sharma 
Admin