Old Delhi is considered a paradise for food lovers. Chole Kulche (often mispronounced as “chile kulche”is a countless street food gem which holds a special place. This hearty dish, which consists of spicy chickpeas paired with soft, fluffy kulchas, is one of the beloved snacks. It is hard to resist this lip-smacking snack in the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk and beyond. Here is a guide to the best spots in Old Delhi where you must try chole kulche.
1. Lotan Chole Kulche – Chawri Bazaar
It is one of the oldest and famous names when it comes to chole kulche in Delhi. It is located near Chawri Bazaar. The place established over a century ago is famous for its fiery, lip-smacking chole. Three levels of spiciness are used while serving the dish, making it perfect for those who enjoy a real kick of heat. The kulchas are soft and slightly crispy on the edges. It is served with tangy chutney, diced onions, and a squeeze of lemon, which makes the whole experience unforgettable.
2. Sita Ram Diwan Chand – Paharganj
Sita Ram Diwan Chand, is located a little outside Chandni Chowk. It is an institution that deserves a mention. This place, located in Paharganj, has been dishing out delectable chole kulche for decades. Its specialty is its thick, gravy-style chole topped with paneer chunks, onions, and pickled vegetables. The kulchas are fluffy and are perfectly toasted. It makes every bite a wholesome experience.
3. Nand Lal Chole Kulche – Near Fatehpuri Masjid
Nand Lal Chole Kulche is an iconic name. It is located close to Fatehpuri Masjid. Its consistency in taste makes it extremely popular among locals. The chole is slightly less fiery than Lotan but equally flavourful. The portion size is sufficient. Refreshing salad and spicy chutney is added on the side making it a filling, satisfying meal.
4. Shyam Chole Kulche – Chawri Bazaar
It is difficult to resist Shyam Chole Kulche if you are exploring the narrow lanes of Chawri Bazaar. It is a hidden gem often eaten by office-goers and shopkeepers. The chole present is cooked with a special blend of masalas, giving it a unique earthy taste. While serving, the kulchas are brushed with ghee. This combination will keep you coming back for more.
5. Kake Di Hatti – Chandni Chowk
Kake Di Hatti, which is best known for its gigantic naans and North Indian curries, also serves an impressive plate of chole kulche. It is situated near Fatehpuri. This place has been running since the 1940s and continues to draw massive crowds. The chole is cooked in aromatic spices and topped with butter. The pairing makes their kulcha truly delicious.
6. Street-Side Vendors – Around Red Fort & Jama Masjid
These chole kulche are available near small roadside stalls. It is available among numerous vendors along the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, or Dariba Kalan. These stalls might not possess brand recognition, but they serve soul-satisfying plates at pocket-friendly prices, often loaded with chutney, pickles, and onions.
Conclusion
Old Delhi is a treasure trove of flavours, serving chile kulche (as it is pronounced). It is one of its most comforting street foods. Each plate narrates its own story and legacy whether it is the legendary spiciness of Lotan, the rich flavours of Sita Ram or the humble offerings of a street vendor near Jama Masjid. Any food enthusiast will find a visit to Old Delhi incomplete without indulging in this iconic dish at least once.
Here’s a neatly organized table for the Best Chole (Chile) Kulche Places in Old Delhi:
| Place Name | Location | Specialty / Highlights | Price Range (Approx.) | Must-Try Tip |
| Lotan Chole Kulche | Chawri Bazaar | Over 100 years old, fiery spicy chole with 3 spice levels, tangy chutney & soft kulchas | ₹40 – ₹70 | Try the “extra spicy” version with lemon squeeze |
| Sita Ram Diwan Chand | Paharganj | Thick, gravy-style chole with paneer toppings, fluffy kulchas, served with pickles | ₹60 – ₹100 | Go early in the day to avoid long queues |
| Nand Lal Chole Kulche | Near Fatehpuri Masjid | Mild yet flavorful chole, generous portions, served with salad & chutney | ₹40 – ₹80 | Pair with their tangy pickle for best taste |
| Shyam Chole Kulche | Chawri Bazaar | Earthy masala-rich chole, ghee-brushed soft kulchas, popular among locals | ₹40 – ₹60 | Perfect for a quick snack during shopping |
| Kake Di Hatti | Chandni Chowk (near Fatehpuri) | Famous for huge naans & curries, but serves rich buttery chole kulche too | ₹100 – ₹150 | Ask for extra butter on top |
| Street-Side Vendors | Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Dariba Kalan | Affordable, authentic taste, loaded with chutney, pickles & onions | ₹20 – ₹50 | Look for busy stalls (a sign of fresh turnover) |
