Delhi's tikka scene is a smoky, spice-laden love affair that spans from old-world dhabas to upscale kabab houses, each promising melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether you're craving the charred edges of a classic chicken tikka or the delicate texture of galawati kebabs, the capital's culinary landscape delivers with unmatched intensity. Platforms like DineCard are helping many of these legendary spots go digital with QR code menus, making it easier than ever to navigate their extensive kebab offerings.
Qureshi's Kabab Corner in South Extension carries forward the Qureshi family's kebab legacy with a more upscale, sit-down experience compared to their Daryaganj ancestor. The mutton boti kebab here is phenomenally juicy with fat marbling that renders beautifully over the tandoor, creating crispy edges that contrast with the tender interior. The location makes it perfect for South Delhi's crowd—families post-shopping and groups celebrating occasions without the chaos of Old Delhi. The service is noticeably more polished while maintaining the robust flavors that made the name famous.
The Tikona Park branch of Lucknowi Galawati kebab brings the same Awadhi heritage to Okhla with a slightly more intimate setting. Their signature galawati kebabs are spiced with over 160 ingredients according to legend, resulting in a texture so tender it was allegedly created for a toothless Nawab. The chicken tikka here is less about aggressive spicing and more about marination depth and charcoal smoke. With just 77 reviews, this feels like discovering a secret before it goes mainstream—ideal for couples seeking offbeat culinary adventures.
Lucknowi Gulawati Kebab in Zakir Nagar specializes in the legendary galawati kebabs that literally melt in your mouth, but their chicken tikka showcases Awadhi finesse with subtle spicing and aromatic infusion. The incredibly budget-friendly pricing (around ₹300 for two) belies the complexity of flavors—this is low-key royalty disguised as street food. The humble setting attracts serious food lovers and culinary explorers willing to venture beyond central Delhi for authentic Lucknowi cuisine. Cash-only transactions and minimal seating add to the old-school charm.
Nizam's Kathi Kabab has been rolling succulent kebabs into parathas since 1932, making it one of Delhi's oldest kathi roll institutions with a prime Connaught Place address. While famous for rolls, their chicken tikka served as a starter is a revelation—charred just right with a tangy marinade that cuts through the richness. The no-seating, counter-service format means this is best for quick bites between shopping or as a late-night rescue after drinking sessions. The sheer consistency across decades explains why it's weathered every food trend with its reputation intact.
Steps away from the Nizamuddin Dargah, Ghalib Kabab Corner serves soul-satisfying Mughlai fare to devotees and food pilgrims in equal measure. The chicken tikka here carries the legacy of Old Delhi's royal kitchens—simple, honest, and explosively flavorful with a marinade that's been perfected over decades. At just ₹300-400 for two, it's criminally affordable and best experienced post-qawwali on Thursday evenings when the spiritual energy of the area adds an extra dimension to your meal. Come for the tikkas, stay for the butter naan that deserves its own fan club.
The Connaught Place outpost of The Great Kabab Factory brings the same unlimited kebab extravaganza to the heart of Central Delhi with slightly more accessible logistics. The Peshawari Kebab—marinated overnight in raw papaya and yogurt—melts on your tongue with a tenderness that borders on buttery. This location draws a mix of corporate crowds during lunch hours and tourists exploring CP's colonial charm by evening. The live grill counters and tableside service create an interactive dining experience that's both educational and delicious.
Kebabs and Curries in Greater Kailash is a hidden gem that punches well above its modest appearance with an impressive 4.6 rating. The restaurant's malai tikka is outrageously creamy, marinated in hung curd and cashew paste, then grilled to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior. It's a cozy neighborhood spot ideal for intimate dinners and small gatherings where quality trumps quantity. The personalized service and consistent flavors have earned it a cult following among South Delhi residents who prefer substance over Instagram aesthetics.
Housed inside the Radisson Blu Plaza in Mahipalpur, The Great Kabab Factory transforms the humble kebab into a fine-dining spectacle with unlimited servings and theatrical presentation. Their signature Sikandari Raan—a slow-roasted leg of lamb—is a showstopper, but the tandoori chicken tikka with seven different marinades is what keeps regulars coming back. Perfect for business dinners or special celebrations, the restaurant's elegant ambiance and attentive service justify the upscale pricing. The unlimited kebab concept means you can sample everything from Galouti to Burrah without feeling rushed.
Tucked away in the historic bylanes of Daryaganj, Qureshi Kabab Corner is where Old Delhi's Mughlai legacy lives on through perfectly spiced seekh kebabs and aromatic tikkas. The mutton seekh kebab is a standout—juicy, fragrant with garam masala, and grilled to smoky perfection over charcoal. This is a spot for adventurous eaters and history buffs who want to experience the flavors that have defined Delhi's street food culture for generations. The no-frills setting and wallet-friendly prices make it a favorite among students and late-night food crawlers.
A legendary pit stop for politicians, celebrities, and tikka enthusiasts alike, Rajinder Da Dhaba has been serving no-frills, high-flavor Punjabi fare since decades. The chicken tikka here is gloriously charred with a tandoor-kissed smokiness that's borderline addictive, while the creamy dal makhani provides the perfect counterbalance. With over 50,000 reviews backing its reputation, this dhaba-style joint is ideal for families and groups who want authentic flavors without the fine-dining fuss. Expect plastic chairs, fluorescent lighting, and some of the best tikkas you'll ever taste—proof that ambiance takes a backseat to flavor.
Own a restaurant featured here?
Get your menu online in 5 minutes with DineCard — AI-powered QR code menus used by 1000+ restaurants.
Try DineCard Free