A Flavorful Afternoon at Delhi Dhaba, TTK Road, Chennai

Chennai, a city known for its idlis, dosas, and filter coffee, is also home to a vibrant food scene that caters to diverse palates. Amidst the bustling streets of TTK Road lies a hidden gem for North Indian food lovers—Delhi Dhaba. On a sunny afternoon, I decided to step away from the usual South Indian fare and treat myself to a hearty North Indian lunch. What followed was an experience that was both delightful and memorable, with a few takeaways that are worth sharing.

First Impressions: Ambience and Vibes

I walked into Delhi Dhaba around 1:30 PM, and the first thing that struck me was the retro North Indian dhaba-style ambience. The restaurant was not overly crowded, which made it a peaceful escape from the usual lunchtime rush. The decor was a nostalgic nod to the classic dhabas of North India, with walls adorned with photos of Bollywood legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Sharukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan. The soft hum of old Hindi songs playing in the background added to the charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The cleanliness of the place was impressive. The tables were neatly arranged, and the floors were spotless—a far cry from the stereotypical image of a dhaba. The retro theme was consistent, from the rustic furniture to the vintage posters, making it a visually appealing space to enjoy a meal.

The Menu: Simple Yet Slightly Pricey

The menu at Delhi Dhaba was straightforward, focusing on classic North Indian dishes. While it wasn’t extensive, it covered all the essentials—parathas, tandoori items, curries, and thalis. However, I couldn’t help but notice that the prices were slightly on the higher side compared to other dhaba-style restaurants in the city. That said, the quality of the food and the overall experience justified the cost to a large extent.

The Food: A Mixed Bag of Flavors

I decided to go for two of my North Indian favorites—Aloo Paratha and Tandoori Murgh. Here’s how my meal unfolded:

Aloo Paratha: A Ghee-Laden Delight

The Aloo Paratha was served hot and fresh, with a generous drizzle of ghee that made it irresistible. The paratha was perfectly flaky, with a well-spiced potato filling that wasn’t overpowering. It came with a side of onion raitha and mixed vegetable pickle, both of which complemented the paratha beautifully. The raitha was cool and refreshing, while the pickle added a tangy kick to each bite. The portion size was decent, and the ghee added a rich, indulgent touch that made it a satisfying choice.

Tandoori Murgh: A Missed Opportunity

The Tandoori Murgh, however, was a bit of a letdown. While the presentation was appealing, with the chicken pieces served on a sizzling platter alongside mint chutney, the execution fell short. The chicken was slightly undercooked, and the masala felt raw, lacking the depth of flavor that one expects from a well-marinated tandoori dish. The mint chutney was fresh and flavorful, but it couldn’t quite compensate for the shortcomings of the main dish.

Thali Options: Worth the Price

Although I didn’t order a thali, I couldn’t help but notice the thali options on the menu. Both veg and non-veg thalis were available, and from what I observed at neighboring tables, they seemed to be a great value for money. The thalis came with a variety of dishes, including dal, sabzi, roti, rice, and dessert, offering a wholesome North Indian meal experience. If I visit again, I’ll definitely give the thali a try.

Service and Hospitality: A Class Apart

One of the highlights of my lunch experience was the impeccable service. The staff were neatly dressed in traditional attire, adding to the dhaba’s authentic vibe. They were attentive without being intrusive, patiently taking my order and ensuring that I had everything I needed. The wait time for the food was reasonable, and the staff checked in occasionally to see if I required anything else. Their professionalism and warmth added to the overall dining experience.

The Bill: Reasonable for the Experience

The total cost of my meal came to around Rs. 420, including taxes. While this might seem a bit steep for a dhaba-style restaurant, the quality of the food (barring the tandoori chicken), the ambience, and the service made it a worthwhile splurge. For those looking for a more economical option, the thali seems to be the way to go.

Final Thoughts: A Nostalgic North Indian Escape

My lunch at Delhi Dhaba was a refreshing break from the usual Chennai fare. The retro ambience, the comforting flavors of the Alu Paratha, and the attentive service made it a memorable experience. While the Tandoori Murgh didn’t quite hit the mark, the thali options and the overall vibe of the place left me eager to return.

If you’re in Chennai and craving a taste of North India, Delhi Dhaba on TTK Road is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re a fan of rich, ghee-laden parathas or looking to explore their thali offerings, this place promises a delightful culinary journey. Just make sure to skip the tandoori chicken and save room for dessert next time!