If you find yourself in Delhi, don’t miss out on these charming 10 open-air cafés. Enjoy your delectable meals al fresco. By Naina Atri
Socially distant dining has become the norm when eating out, and these 10 open-air cafés in Delhi provide the perfect romantic setting as you break bread under the open sky.
10 open-air cafés in Delhi to hit up when dining out
The zero-waste and sustainable restaurant in Delhi’s iconic GK II M Block market has a beautiful terrace space with pretty warm lights. Their innovative menu offers many interesting options to choose from – don’t miss out on their Fig Love Bowls and Moringa and Cream Cheese Dumplings.
M-27, E Block Rd, Block M, Greater Kailash II, Greater Kailash
Image: Courtesy Instagram/figandmapledelhi
Sunder Nursery, at the heart of Delhi, has been elevated over the years, through its restoration, to a beloved dilli haunt. Through the week, families come to picnic and many look forward to the weekend farmers’ market. Fabcafé is an addition to the Nursery that fits right into its serene vibe. Wood and warm neutrals make up the space. If you don’t get seating, you don’t need to fret, for the restaurant also offers other services – FabPicnic, whereby one can get a little picnic meal packed and FabPickups, a takeaway service. The distinct breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are suited to great conversations, especially under the winter sun.
Sunder Nursery, Delhi’s Heritage Park, Bharat Scouts and Guides Marg, adjoining Humayun’s Tomb, Nizamuddin
Image: fabcafe.in/Instagram
Delhites frequently flock to the rustic white-walled restaurant in Mehrauli, Olive Qutub, part of the expansive Olive Group. The imposing banyan tree, the white colour scheme with blue accents and a tree-top terrace bar, all in close proximity to the Qutub Minar, form the perfect backdrop to the Mediterranean menu. Live music on Monday nights and exquisite brunch on Sundays offer just the right excuse to head to Mehrauli.
One Style Mile, Haveli no. 6-8, Kalkadass Marg, Mehrauli, Ward No 8, Badiwala Kua, Mehrauli
Image: olivedelhi/Instagram
Cosy with brick walls and fair lights, Diggin is a special favourite for college students. The Anand Lok location sports a white spiral staircase, aesthetic interiors and delicious pizzas (their dessert and shakes are decadent accompaniments). Head to Diggin with your friends and sit back and laugh – the open air lets conversations flow.
No.1 & 2 Anand Lok Shopping Centre, opp. Gargi College, Anand Lok
Image: diggincafe/Instagram
Champa Gali has evolved as Delhi’s café hub and this relatively new little café has cropped up as a rival. From tacos to grilled prawn skewers, the varied menu has a lot on offer. The hearty servings juxtaposed with the small space make for a delicious meal out, especially when you don’t feel like being surrounded by a large crowd.
Khasra 258, Lane Number 3, Saidulajaib, Saket
Image: socialstreetcafe/Instagram
Located in Delhi National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy, Café Lota’s regional Indian dishes are interesting enough to pull in large numbers. The quintessential Indian meals, like the Palak Patta Chaat, pair well with the minimalist old-school vibe of the café. Some of these regional flavours have been given a contemporary twist, such as the Bhapa Doi Cheesecake and Banana Ragi Pancake. Sip on their artisanal coffees and teas and have a proper artsy Delhi day out.
Gate No. 2, National Crafts Museum, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan
Image: cafelotadelhi/Instagram
Nestled in the SDA market is Nukkad, another college student favourite. Loud conversations fill the space, which has been made to augment the liveliness of Delhi crowds – live gigs, bright colours and yellow lights. Even the menu is typical Delhi, with momos, maggis, masala bunta and mutton kebabs. Kickback and relax under the canopy of trees.
C 23, 24 SDA Market OPPOSITE IIT GATE shop number c23, c24, Block C 5, Safdarjung Development Area, Hauz Khas
Image: nukkadcafe/Instagram
Gorge on tapas and sip onto their signature Bohcatini at Bohca’s lush outdoor space in Qutub-Mehrauli area. Gear up for a boozy affair – we suggest brunch!
Qutub Hotel, Shaheed Jeet Singh Marg, Block C, Qutab Institutional Area
Image: bohca/Instagram
The Claridge’s Spanish-themed restaurant’s Southern Europe & Moroccan menu is perfect for an indulgent experience. Enjoy a scrumptious candle-light dinner. Amongst its extensive menu are some crowd-favourites like their sangrias, the Betroot Risotto and panna cotta, which transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
12, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Rd, Tees January Road Area, Motilal Nehru Marg Area
Image: theclaridgesnewdelhi/Instagram
When dining at The Lodhi’s Élan, one is spoilt for choice, from regional Indian and South East flavours, to a Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki Theatre. With a view of the hotel’s lawns, dining at Élan’s alfresco courtyard is a classy affair. The restaurant takes their Sunday brunches very seriously, which make Sunday at the Lodhi an ideal end to a busy week.
Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar
Image: thelodhidelhi/Instagram
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