Exploring Authentic Regional Food at State Bhavan Canteens in Delhi
If you’re looking to experience the true essence of India’s diverse regional cuisines, the State Bhavan canteens in Delhi are the places to visit.
About the Location
Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is this more evident than in its culinary landscape. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, the city offers a dizzying array of dining options. But if you’re looking to experience the true essence of India’s diverse regional cuisines, the State Bhavan canteens in Delhi are the places to visit. These canteens, housed within the government guesthouses of various Indian states, serve authentic dishes that capture the unique flavors and traditions of each region. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular State Bhavan canteens and the must-try dishes they offer.
Must-Try
- Andhra Thali from Andhra Pradesh Bhavan: Located just a short drive from India Gate, Andhra Pradesh Bhavan is famous for its canteen, which serves authentic Andhra cuisine. The canteen is particularly renowned for its Andhra Thali, a wholesome meal that includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, such as spicy curries, tangy chutneys, and biryani. The flavors are bold, and the meals are served generously, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
- Puran Poli, Sabudana Khichdi, and Vada Pav. from Maharashtra Sadan: The food is prepared in a home-style manner, ensuring an authentic taste of Maharashtra's rich culinary heritage. The simple yet flavorful offerings make it a perfect spot for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Available outlets in Delhi
1. Andhra Pradesh Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.4
Popular Dishes : Andhra Thali | Hyderabadi Biryani | Gongura Pickle
Opening Time : 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹500
Description: Andhra Pradesh Bhavan is a haven for those who crave spicy and flavorful South Indian food. The highlight here is the Andhra Thali, a sumptuous meal featuring a variety of dishes like spicy curries, dal, sambar, rice, and tangy pickles. The Hyderabadi Biryani, known for its fragrant rice and tender meat, is another crowd favorite. Don’t miss the Gongura Pickle, a tangy and spicy chutney made from sorrel leaves that perfectly complements the meal.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 2031
2. Maharashtra Sadan | Delhi | Rating: 4.3
Popular Dishes : Puran Poli | Vada Pav | Sabudana Khichdi
Opening Time : 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: For a taste of Maharashtra, head to Maharashtra Sadan, where the canteen serves up traditional dishes with an authentic touch. The Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentils, is a must-try. If you’re in the mood for something savory, the Vada Pav, a spicy potato fritter served in a bun, and Sabudana Khichdi, a dish made from sago pearls, are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Reservation: +91 11 2331 8947
3. Tamil Nadu House | Delhi | Rating: 4.5
Popular Dishes : Tamil Nadu Thali | Chettinad Chicken | Filter Coffee
Opening Time : 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: Tamil Nadu House offers a culinary journey through the flavors of Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Thali is a feast that includes rice, sambar, rasam, poriyal, and papadam. Pair your meal with a cup of Filter Coffee, brewed to perfection with chicory, or indulge in the spicy Chettinad Chicken, known for its aromatic spices and fiery taste.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 7541
4. Karnataka Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.4
Popular Dishes : Mysore Masala Dosa | Bisibele Bath | Mangalore Buns
Opening Time : 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Karnataka Bhavan is a must-visit for fans of South Indian cuisine. The Mysore Masala Dosa, a crisp dosa filled with a spicy potato mixture, is a popular choice. The Bisibele Bath, a wholesome dish made from rice, lentils, and vegetables, is comfort food at its best. For a unique treat, try the Mangalore Buns, sweet and fluffy fried buns that are typically enjoyed with coconut chutney.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 7525
5. West Bengal Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.6
Popular Dishes : Bengali Thali | Kosha Mangsho | Mishti Doi
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: West Bengal Bhavan is where you’ll find some of the most delicious Bengali dishes in Delhi. The Bengali Thali is a comprehensive meal that includes rice, fish curry, shukto (a mixed vegetable stew), and sweets like Rasgulla. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, the Kosha Mangsho, a slow-cooked spicy mutton curry, is a must-try. Finish your meal with a bowl of Mishti Doi, a traditional sweetened yogurt.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 7125
6. Rajasthan House | Delhi | Rating: 4.5
Popular Dishes : Dal Baati Churma | Gatte ki Sabzi | Ker Sangri
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹500
Description: Rajasthan House offers a taste of the royal cuisine of Rajasthan. The Dal Baati Churma, a combination of baked wheat balls, lentils, and sweetened crushed wheat, is the star of the menu. The Gatte ki Sabzi, gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy yogurt gravy, and Ker Sangri, a unique desert bean and berry dish, are other regional specialties you can savor here.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 4381
7. Gujarat Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.2
Popular Dishes : Gujarati Thali | Undhiyu | Fafda-Jalebi
Opening Time : 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Gujarat Bhavan is the place to go for a wholesome Gujarati meal. The Gujarati Thali is a delightful spread that includes dhokla, kadhi, thepla, and sweets like Mohanthal. During the winter, the Undhiyu, a mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices, is a must-have. For a quick snack, try the popular Fafda-Jalebi combination.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 1587
8. Punjab Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.6
Popular Dishes : Amritsari Kulcha | Sarson da Saag | Makki di Roti
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹550
Description: At Punjab Bhavan, you can indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Punjabi cuisine. The Amritsari Kulcha, a stuffed flatbread served with chole (chickpea curry), is a meal in itself. The Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti, mustard greens served with cornmeal flatbread, is another classic dish that’s perfect for the winter months. Wash it all down with a glass of thick, creamy Lassi.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 1124
9. Kerala House | Delhi | Rating: 4.4
Popular Dishes : Kerala Sadhya | Appam with Stew | Fish Moilee
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹500
Description: Kerala House brings the flavors of the Malabar Coast to Delhi. The Kerala Sadhya, a traditional feast served on a banana leaf, includes rice, various vegetable dishes, and Payasam, a sweet pudding. The Appam with Stew, soft rice pancakes served with a coconut-based vegetable or meat stew, is a must-try for anyone craving authentic South Indian flavors. Fish Moilee, a mild fish curry made with coconut milk, is another highlight.
Reservation: +91 11 2374 3953
10. Assam Bhawan | Delhi | Rating: 4.3
Popular Dishes : Assamese Thali | Masor Tenga | Pitha
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: For a taste of Assam, Assam Bhawan is the place to be. The Assamese Thali offers a delightful mix of rice, fish curry, pitika (mashed vegetables), and tangy chutneys. The Masor Tenga, a light and tangy fish curry, is a refreshing change from the rich gravies of North India. Don’t forget to try Pitha, traditional Assamese rice cakes, especially during the festive season.
Reservation: +91 11 2307 1413
11. Bihar Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.2
Popular Dishes : Litti Chokha | Dal Pitha | Thekua
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Bihar Bhavan is where you can enjoy the rustic flavors of Bihari cuisine. The Litti Chokha, roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu and served with mashed vegetables, is a signature dish. Dal Pitha, rice flour dumplings filled with lentils, and Thekua, a sweet snack made from whole wheat flour and jaggery, are other regional favorites.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 8435
12. Nagaland House | Delhi | Rating: 4.3
Popular Dishes : Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot | Akibiye | Galho
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹500
Description: Nagaland House offers a taste of the Northeast with its bold and smoky flavors. The Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot is a traditional Naga dish that’s not to be missed. Akibiye, made with colocasia stems and bamboo shoot paste, and Galho, a Naga-style porridge, are other dishes that showcase the region’s unique culinary heritage.
Reservation: +91 11 2307 2812
13. Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.1
Popular Dishes : Thukpa | Momos | Chura Sabzi
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: At Arunachal Pradesh Bhavan, you can enjoy a blend of Indian and Tibetan flavors. The Thukpa, a hearty noodle soup, is a perfect comfort food. The Momos, steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, are a popular choice. Chura Sabzi, a dish made with fermented cheese and vegetables, is another must-try.
Reservation: +91 11 2307 4756
14. Meghalaya House | Delhi | Rating: 4.2
Popular Dishes : Jadoh | Dohneiiong | Tungrymbai
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: Meghalaya House serves traditional Khasi cuisine, with dishes like Jadoh, a rice and meat dish, and Dohneiiong, pork cooked with black sesame seeds. Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean dish cooked with pork fat, is a flavorful and unique dish that’s worth trying.
Reservation: +91 11 2307 2591
15. Manipur Bhawan | Delhi | Rating: 4.3
Popular Dishes : Eromba | Ngari | Chamthong (Kangshoi)
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹420
Description: Manipur Bhawan offers a taste of Manipuri cuisine, known for its use of fresh and fermented ingredients. The Eromba, made with mashed vegetables and fermented fish, is a staple dish. Ngari, fermented fish, is used in many dishes, including the vegetable stew Chamthong (Kangshoi), which is served with rice.
Reservation: +91 11 2332 1070
16. Tripura Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.2
Popular Dishes : Mui Borok | Bangui Rice | Wahan Mosdeng
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹420
Description: Tripura Bhavan offers a taste of Tripuri cuisine, with dishes like Mui Borok, a traditional dish made with fish and bamboo shoots. Bangui Rice, special rice cooked with Tripuri herbs, is often served with local fish dishes. Wahan Mosdeng, a spicy pork dish with tomatoes and herbs, is another must-try.
Reservation: +91 11 2332 3625
17. Uttarakhand Bhavan | Delhi | Rating: 4.1
Popular Dishes : Aloo Ke Gutke | Kafuli | Jhangora Ki Kheer
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Uttarakhand Bhavan brings the flavors of the Himalayas to Delhi. The Aloo Ke Gutke, spicy stir-fried potatoes, is a popular Kumaoni dish. Kafuli, a spinach-based curry often made with fenugreek leaves, is a healthy and delicious option. For dessert, try the Jhangora Ki Kheer, a sweet dish made from barnyard millet.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 2721
18. Himachal Bhawan | Delhi | Rating: 4.3
Popular Dishes : Chana Madra | Dham | Babru
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Price For Two : ₹450
Description: Himachal Bhawan offers the rustic flavors of Himachal Pradesh. The Chana Madra, chickpeas cooked in a yogurt-based gravy, is a popular dish. The Dham, a traditional festive meal, includes rice, dal, rajma, and curd. Babru, a Himachali snack similar to kachori, stuffed with black gram paste, is perfect for a light bite.
Reservation: +91 11 2336 0630
19. Odisha Niwas | Delhi | Rating: 4.2
Popular Dishes : Dalma | Chhena Poda | Pakhala Bhata
Opening Time : 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Odisha Niwas offers the subtle and flavorful dishes of Odia cuisine. The Dalma, lentils cooked with vegetables, is a staple dish. The Chhena Poda, a baked sweet made from fresh cottage cheese, is a must-try dessert. Pakhala Bhata, fermented rice served with fried or mashed vegetables, is a traditional and refreshing dish, especially in the summer.
Reservation: +91 11 2338 1037
20. Jharkhand Bhawan | Delhi | Rating: 4.1
Popular Dishes : Dhuska | Rugra | Arsa
Opening Time : 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Price For Two : ₹400
Description: Jharkhand Bhawan serves the earthy flavors of Jharkhand. The Dhuska, deep-fried rice flour pancakes, are served with gram curry. Rugra, a dish made from local mushrooms, and Arsa, a traditional sweet made from rice flour and jaggery, are other highlights.
Reservation: +91 11 2307 0431
personal Recommendations
Try Andra pradesh bhavan and Maharashtra Sadan
conclusion
Exploring the State Bhavan canteens in Delhi is like taking a culinary tour of India without leaving the city. Each canteen offers a unique dining experience, with dishes that are authentic, affordable, and deeply rooted in regional traditions. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these canteens provide a delicious gateway to the diverse flavors of India’s many states. So, the next time you’re in Delhi, make sure to visit these hidden gems and savor the taste of India’s rich culinary heritage.