Kikli Restaurant
Kikli Restaurant in Connaught Place offers a colorful celebration of Punjabi flavors in the heart of Delhi. Known for its vibrant interiors, lively energy, and homestyle Punjabi cooking with a modern twist, it’s a...
Old Delhi is a food lover’s paradise—a labyrinth of narrow alleys where every corner offers a burst of flavors, aromas, and centuries-old culinary traditions. But as we indulge in these delights, the environmental cost of disposable plates, plastic spoons, and Styrofoam containers often goes unnoticed.
What if we could enjoy the same mouth-watering experience while minimizing waste? This Weekend Wander takes you through the bustling lanes of Old Delhi on a sustainable street food tour, where every bite is delicious and every step is eco-conscious.
Why Choose a Sustainable Street Food Tour?
The Problem with Traditional Street Food Waste
Old Delhi’s street food scene generates tons of waste daily—plastic cups, straws, polythene bags, and disposable cutlery clog drains and pollute the Yamuna. A single food tour can leave behind dozens of single-use items that take centuries to decompose.
How Small Changes Make a Big Difference
By adopting simple swaps—like carrying reusable containers, refusing plastic spoons, and supporting vendors using biodegradable packaging—we can significantly reduce waste without compromising on taste.
The Rise of Conscious Food Tourism
Globally, travelers are seeking eco-friendly food experiences. From Bangkok’s plastic-free markets to Mexico City’s sustainable taco stands, the movement is growing—and Old Delhi can be part of it!
Preparing for Your Sustainable Food Crawl
Essential Eco-Friendly Items to Carry
- Stainless Steel Tiffin or Reusable Containers – For packing paranthas, chaat, or sweets.
- Cloth Napkins or Handkerchiefs – Avoid paper napkins.
- Bamboo/Metal Straws and Cutlery – Say no to plastic spoons and straws.
- Reusable Water Bottle – Refill at local shops instead of buying bottled water.
- Jute/Cloth Bag – For carrying takeaways or souvenirs.
Choosing the Right Time & Transport
- Best Time: Early morning (8-10 AM) or late evening (6-8 PM) to avoid crowds.
- Eco-Friendly Commute: Metro (Chandni Chowk station) or cycle rickshaws instead of cabs.
The Ultimate Sustainable Street Food Trail
1. Paranthe Wali Gali – A Zero-Waste Breakfast
📍 Location: Near Chandni Chowk Metro Station
🍽 Must-Try: Aloo, paneer, and mixed veg paranthas
Sustainable Hack:
- Carry your own steel tiffin or ask vendors to serve in a leaf plate (pattal).
- Skip the plastic chutney packets—ask for dips in your container.
Why It’s Worth It:
These deep-fried delights have been served since the Mughal era. Eating them sustainably keeps the tradition alive without harming the planet.
2. Old Famous Jalebi Wala – Sweet, Crispy & Plastic-Free
📍 Location: Dariba Kalan
🍽 Must-Try: Hot, syrup-drenched jalebis
Sustainable Hack:
- Bring your own small steel bowl or eat on-site in their reusable plates.
- Avoid plastic spoons—use your fingers (the traditional way!) or carry a bamboo spoon.
Pro Tip:
Pair jalebis with kulhad wali chai (clay cup tea) for a fully biodegradable experience.
3. Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi – No Plastic Straws Needed
📍 Location: Near Sita Ram Bazaar
🍽 Must-Try: Mango, rose, and paan-flavored kulfi
Sustainable Hack:
- Request no plastic spoon—use your own metal or wooden spoon.
- If ordering falooda, bring a bamboo straw.
Why It’s Special:
Their fruit-stuffed kulfi is a summer legend. Enjoying it sustainably means you’re helping preserve both heritage and the environment.
4. Natraj’s Dahi Bhalle – The Art of Eating in Kulhads
📍 Location: Opposite Central Bank, Chandni Chowk
🍽 Must-Try: Dahi bhalla with imli chutney
Sustainable Hack:
- Eat in their traditional kulhads (clay cups) instead of plastic plates.
- Carry a cloth napkin to avoid paper tissues.
Fun Fact:
Clay pots are not just eco-friendly—they also add an earthy flavor to the dish!
5. Ashok Chaat Bhandar – A Zero-Waste Chaat Experience
📍 Location: Near Fatehpuri Masjid
🍽 Must-Try: Aloo tikki, papdi chaat, and dahi puri
Sustainable Hack:
- Bring your own small container for takeaways.
- Use a handkerchief instead of paper napkins.
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
Their tangy, spicy flavors are unmatched—and now, you can enjoy them without guilt!
6. Lotan Chole Kulche – The Sustainable Way to Eat Street-Side
📍 Location: Chawri Bazaar
🍽 Must-Try: Spicy chole with fluffy kulcha
Sustainable Hack:
- Eat at the stall instead of takeaway to avoid foil packaging.
- Carry a reusable cloth bag if packing for home.
Pro Tip:
Ask for extra achar (pickle) in your own small container.
Beyond Food: Sustainable Practices in Old Delhi
1. Supporting Eco-Conscious Vendors
- Look for stalls using banana leaves, paper wraps, or steel plates.
- Praise vendors who avoid plastic—it encourages others to switch!
2. Reducing Carbon Footprint
- Walk or take cycle rickshaws instead of autos/taxis.
- Carry a trash bag for any unavoidable waste (dispose of it properly later).
3. Water Conservation
- Refill your bottle at RO water stalls (many shops offer free refills).
- Avoid packaged drinks—opt for nimbu pani in kulhads.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them
1. Venders Hesitant to Use Your Container?
- Politely explain why you’re avoiding plastic—many appreciate the effort!
- Offer to pay a little extra for the hassle.
2. Forgot Your Reusable Kit?
- Look for stalls using leaf plates or paper wraps.
- Share plates with friends to reduce waste.
3. Dealing with Leftovers?
- Order small portions to avoid food waste.
- Carry a compact container for leftovers.
The Bigger Impact: Why This Matters
1. Reducing Plastic Pollution
- Delhi generates 10,000+ metric tons of waste daily—much from street food.
- A single reusable tiffin can replace hundreds of plastic plates in a year.
2. Preserving Cultural Heritage
- Many Old Delhi vendors still use traditional serving methods (clay pots, leaves).
- Supporting them keeps these practices alive.
3. Inspiring Others
- When vendors and fellow foodies see your efforts, they’re more likely to adopt them too!
Final Thoughts: Savor the Taste, Save the Planet
Old Delhi’s street food is a treasure—one that we can enjoy responsibly. By making small changes, we protect the environment while keeping the city’s culinary legacy thriving.
Next time you’re on a Weekend Wander, pack your reusable kit and dig in—the sustainable way!
Call to Action
Have you tried a zero-waste food tour? Share your favorite eco-friendly hacks in the comments!
#SustainableFoodTour #OldDelhiStreetFood #ZeroWasteEating #EcoFriendlyTravel #WeekendWander
