Kala Cafe

Overview

Kala Cafe has become a culinary institution in Delhi's power corridor, serving as the unofficial canteen for Parliament Street's government officers, students from nearby colleges, and budget-conscious families since 2012. This unassuming eatery masterfully brings together 8 distinct culinary traditions under one roof - from the tangy Pani Puri of Old Delhi's galis to wood-fired pizzas that would make an Italian nonna nod in approval. What began as a humble snack counter has evolved into a 120-seat gastronomic democracy where IAS officers rub shoulders with art students, all united by hearty meals under ₹500. The cafe's genius lies in its ability to serve a Kerala beef fry alongside a Jain thali, making it the Switzerland of Delhi's diverse food scene.

Menu

Ambiance

Step into Kala Cafe and you're greeted by a sensory symphony - the sizzle of tawas, the aromatic whiff of freshly baked kulchas, and the vibrant chatter of Delhi's most interesting lunchtime crowd. The space cleverly balances utilitarian efficiency with creative flair:

• The 'Power Lunch' Zone: High-speed service tables near the entrance where ministry staff devour thalis between meetings (Note the distinctive red files marking 'reserved' tables during budget season)
• The Student Corner: Mismatched chairs and walls plastered with indie band posters where SRCC debate teams strategize over ₹99 Maggi bowls
• Family Nooks: Sunlit tables by the windows where generations bond over shared plates of Butter Chicken Pizza and nostalgic Ghee Jalebi

Cuisine

A culinary chameleon offering North Indian comfort food, South Indian breakfasts, Chinese-Indian fusion, and European cafe staples - all with consistent quality.

• delhi street food : Chandni Chowk Special Chaat | Kaleva Ghee Jalebi
• office lunch favorites : Thali Meals (3-curry + dal + dessert) | Mughlai Paratha Rolls
• student bites : ₹99 Pizza Slice | Maggi Noodles (10 variants)
• healthier picks : Quinoa Salad | Ragi Dosa | Cold Pressed Juices

Must-Try Dishes

• Parliament Special Thali – Daily-changing platter with 5 mini dishes (12-3PM only)
• Kala Cafe Special Kulhad Chai – Masala tea in clay cups with ginger crunch
• Butter Chicken Pizza – Delhi's twist on Italian with tandoori sauce

Service

• description : Efficient self-service system with tray collection counters - designed for 30-minute lunch breaks of nearby office-goers.
• style : Cashier takes orders | Number calling system | Water self-service

Why Visit Kala Cafe?

• Ultimate Variety – Satisfy diverse group cravings in one stop
• Political Hub Location – 5-min walk from Central Secretariat Metro
• Budget Hero – Most dishes under ₹200 | Student discounts available

Tips for Visitors

• best time to visit : 1-2PM for lunch buzz | 4-6PM for quiet chai sessions
• reservations : Not accepted | Share tables during peak hours
• dress code : Come as you are – suits to jeans all welcome