Old-Soul Spaces: 5 Spots Where Delhi Dines In Vintage Style
Where the city’s timeless charm meets plates inspired by generations
20 Nov, 2025 by Vishal Tewatia
Delhi is a lively and colourful city that carries the weight of different eras. The past hasn’t vanished; it lingers in pockets of the city where modern minimalism hasn’t fully taken over, especially in the old cafes and restaurants that once defined elegance. These places are where patterned floors are still narrating stories from the past, chandeliers are shining with memories, and classic recipes taste like those that have been handed down from one generation to another. The love for the old-fashioned naturally attracts people to the kind of dining spaces that still cherish the same. This list consists of the best restaurants in Delhi that are merging history with hospitality, effortlessly.
Chor Bizarre Restaurant, Daryaganj, Old Delhi
Chor Bizarre is the place where nostalgia and great storytelling come together. The restaurant is inspired by India's diverse "chor bazaars", and is decorated with vintage furniture and decor arranged like mismatched treasures that impart a museum-like charm. The overall atmosphere has the essence of Old Delhi, while the cuisine takes its roots in Kashmiri and North Indian traditions. This incredible experience in dining makes Chor Bizarre stand among the top 5 restaurants in Delhi, according to many.
Must-haves: Chicken Rogan Josh, Nihari Gosht, Paneer Mirch Bhurji, Kashmiri Phirni
Cost for two: ₹ 1000
United Coffee House, Connaught Place (CP), Central Delhi
Since 1942, United Coffee House has stood as the highlight of Connaught Place; the charm of the place has been impeccably preserved through the years. The velvet covering of chairs, the Persian rugs, and the chandeliers that give off a soft, intimate, and old-fashioned light throughout the place. The menu here originally offered Indian cuisine, but with time, continental dishes got added as well. The restaurant's pretty and classic side keeps making it one of the best restaurants at Connaught Place.
Must-haves: Gazab Ka Jheenga, Burmese Khao Suey, La Mancha Pimento Madrid, Shahi Halwa Tart, UCH- The Legend of Dilli
Cost for two: ₹ 2500
Kala Swasti Artisanal Indian Culinary, Janpath, Connaught Place (CP), Central Delhi
Kala Swasti is a perfect combination of vintage vibes and traditional Indian aesthetics with handcrafted motifs, warm wooden textures, and design elements that are reminiscent of a past era's elegance. The restaurant, through its slow-cooked dishes that are inspired by traditional methods and cultural background, is celebrating the rich taste of Indian regions. This creative food place has been and still is one of the best restaurants at Connaught Place to experience regal dining.
Must-haves: Goat Cheese Dahi Bhalla, Rawa Meen Moily, Dum Lamb Biriyani, Jaipuri Gatta Curry, Badami Moong Dal Halwa
Cost for two: ₹ 1800
Ikk Panjab, Connaught Place (CP), Central Delhi
Ikk Panjab feels like an old Punjabi mansion that is still alive with its cosy character. The lanterns illuminate the hallways, the woodwork resembles that of the old days, and the traditional decor is a reminder of Punjab before partition. The tandoori flavours and creamy curries are among the dishes that are inspired by the Punjabi culture. The restaurant's vibrant ambiance and good food make it one of the best restaurants in Delhi.
Must-haves: Ikk Panjab Dahi Bhalla, Jalandhari Dal Pakode, Qeema Kachori, The Station Master’s Gimlet Cocktail, Penicillin Cocktail
Cost for two: ₹ 2500
Kwality, Connaught Place (CP), Central Delhi
At Kwality, vintage is not just an aesthetic; the old charm of the place has been preserved perfectly since the 1940s. The restaurant still features its original wooden furniture and a bit of the old charm. It continues to serve North Indian and Mughlai dishes that Delhi has loved for generations. This one-of-a-kind space, with its unbroken legacy, has earned a well-deserved reputation for being a classic amongst the best restaurants at Connaught Place.
Must-haves: Banana Peanut Tikki, Taar Gosht, Paneer Shashlik, Kadhai Paneer, Jodhpuri Paneer, Mutton Burrah, Parsi Dairy Kulfi
Cost for two: ₹ 1500
Written By
Vishal is passionate about traveling, food, long drives, music & loves pets. When at home, he watches movies & is crazy about exploring new places. He is into gaming too & has a keen interest in photography.
