What are the top fine dining restaurants in South Delhi?

Delhi's dining scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, traditions, and innovations. From royal Mughlai feasts to contemporary global cuisine, the capital city offers an incredible variety of gastronomic experiences. Join me as I explore ten of Delhi's most remarkable restaurants, each with its unique charm and culinary excellence.

1. The Pavilion, ITC Maurya

Nestled within the luxurious ITC Maurya hotel, The Pavilion is Delhi's premier 24-hour dining destination that elevates the buffet experience to an art form. This elegant restaurant features soaring ceilings, contemporary décor, and a tranquil water body that creates a serene atmosphere despite its bustling nature.

The Pavilion's expansive buffet spans global cuisines, with dedicated stations for Indian, Asian, European, and Mediterranean delicacies. What sets it apart is the exceptional quality maintained across this vast culinary spectrum. The restaurant sources many ingredients from ITC's eco-friendly "Responsible Luxury" initiative, ensuring freshness and sustainability.

Breakfast here is legendary, featuring everything from perfect South Indian dosas to Continental classics. The Sunday brunch has become a Delhi institution, with free-flowing champagne and live cooking stations that turn dining into theater.

Must-try dishes:

• The divine butter chicken, prepared with a recipe perfected over decades
• Dal Bukhara, borrowed from its famous sister restaurant
• The exceptional selection of breads from the tandoor
• The dessert spread, particularly the gulab jamun soufflé

Location: ITC Maurya, Diplomatic Enclave, Sardar Patel Marg
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium luxury dining)
Average cost for two: ₹5,000-7,000
Contact: +91-11-2611-2233
Rating: 4.8/5
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for Sunday brunch

2. Bukhara, ITC Maurya

An institution in Delhi's dining scene since 1978, Bukhara has welcomed world leaders, celebrities, and discerning diners for over four decades. This legendary restaurant at ITC Maurya focuses on Northwest Frontier cuisine, celebrating rugged, robust flavors and traditional cooking methods.

The restaurant's interiors evoke a rustic charm with stone walls, rough-hewn wooden furniture, and an open kitchen where diners can watch the theater of skilled chefs managing the tandoors (clay ovens). The lack of cutlery is intentional—guests are encouraged to eat with their hands, complemented by aprons instead of napkins, creating an authentic dining experience.

Bukhara's menu has remained virtually unchanged for decades, a testament to its perfection. The food preparation involves marination processes that can take up to 24 hours, followed by slow cooking in tandoors. The result is meat that falls off the bone and naan bread with unmatched texture and flavor.

Must-try dishes:

• Dal Bukhara, the iconic black lentil dish simmered overnight with tomatoes, ginger, and garlic
• Sikandari Raan, a whole leg of lamb marinated with spices and slow-roasted
• Tandoori Jhinga, jumbo prawns marinated in ajwain and yogurt
• Naan Bukhara, a massive bread meant for sharing that has become Instagram-famous

Location: ITC Maurya, Diplomatic Enclave, Sardar Patel Marg
Price range: ₹₹₹₹₹ (Ultra-premium)
Average cost for two: ₹8,000-10,000
Contact: +91-11-2611-2233
Rating: 4.9/5
Reservations: Essential, often booked weeks in advance

3. Dum Pukht, ITC Maurya

Dum Pukht celebrates the refined royal cuisine of Awadh, where slow-cooking in sealed containers (the "dum" technique) allows flavors to mature and intensify. Located in the ITC Maurya, this restaurant offers an opulent dining experience with regal blue and silver interiors, crystal chandeliers, and silver service that transports diners to the courts of Lucknow nawabs.

The restaurant's atmosphere whispers elegance rather than announces it, with subtle traditional music enhancing the ambiance. Each dish represents culinary heritage preserved through generations, with recipes collected from royal kitchens and refined for contemporary palates.

Unlike many Indian restaurants that focus on bold spices, Dum Pukht emphasizes subtle aromatics—saffron, ittar (natural perfumes), and khewra (rose water). The slow-cooking process allows meat to absorb these delicate flavors while retaining remarkable tenderness.

Must-try dishes:

• Kakori Kebab, melt-in-your-mouth minced lamb kebabs with aromatic spices
• Dum Pukht Biryani, where basmati rice and meat are sealed with dough and slow-cooked to perfection
• Shahi Nehari, a royal preparation of lamb shanks cooked overnight
• Shahi Tukda, a decadent dessert of fried bread soaked in saffron-scented milk

Location: ITC Maurya, Diplomatic Enclave, Sardar Patel Marg
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium luxury dining)
Average cost for two: ₹6,000-8,000
Contact: +91-11-2611-2233
Rating: 4.7/5
Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner

4. Chicken Inn, Pandara Road

Amid the high-end culinary establishments of Delhi stands the unpretentious yet legendary Chicken Inn on Pandara Road. Part of the famed Pandara Road Market food hub, this restaurant has been serving consistently excellent North Indian and Mughlai cuisine since the 1960s, becoming a cornerstone of Delhi's comfort food scene.

The restaurant's modest interiors belie the exceptional quality of its food. Red-checked tablecloths, straightforward seating, and bustling service create an authentic Delhi eating experience that locals have treasured for generations. The restaurant buzzes with energy, especially in the evenings when families and friends gather for memorable meals.

What makes Chicken Inn special is its unwavering commitment to traditional cooking methods and recipes that have stood the test of time. The tandoor section works overtime, churning out succulent kebabs and freshly baked bread, while the curry section prepares rich, aromatic gravies that have been perfected over decades.

Must-try dishes:

• Butter Chicken, widely considered among the best in Delhi with its perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess
• Mutton Seekh Kebabs, juicy and flavorful with the perfect char
• Chicken Tikka, marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked in the tandoor
• Dal Makhani, simmered overnight for depth of flavor

Location: 14-15, Pandara Road Market, New Delhi
Price range: ₹₹ (Moderate)
Average cost for two: ₹2,000-2,500
Contact: +91-11-2338-7658
Rating: 4.5/5
Reservations: Not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours

5. Swagath, Defence Colony

Swagath in Defence Colony has established itself as Delhi's premier destination for coastal Indian cuisine, specializing in exceptional seafood preparations from Kerala and Karnataka. This restaurant bridges the gap between casual dining and fine cuisine, offering sophisticated flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant's décor incorporates elements from South Indian coastal regions, with wooden furnishings, brass accents, and subtle maritime motifs. While not overtly themed, these touches create a relaxed yet refined environment that lets the food take center stage.

What truly distinguishes Swagath is its dedication to authentic coastal recipes and fresh seafood. The kitchen works directly with suppliers from Kerala and Karnataka to source fish, prawns, and crab of exceptional quality. Each dish respects traditional preparation methods while maintaining consistency that keeps patrons returning.

Must-try dishes:

• Butter Pepper Garlic Prawns, a house specialty that balances richness with piquant flavors
• Kane Fry (Ladyfish), prepared in the Mangalorean style with a crispy red spice coating
• Malabar Fish Curry, with coconut milk and kokum providing tangy-sweet notes
• Crab Masala, a messy but utterly satisfying dish worth the effort

Location: Defence Colony Market, New Delhi
Price range: ₹₹₹ (Upper moderate)
Average cost for two: ₹2,000-2,500
Contact: +91-11-2433-3815
Rating: 4.4/5
Reservations: Recommended for dinner and weekends

6. MKT (Maurya Khyber Tribal), Chanakyapuri

MKT at The Chanakya mall reimagines Delhi's dining landscape with its unique concept that blends marketplace ambiance with exceptional cuisine. This stylish establishment creates distinct dining zones within a luxurious setting, each offering a different culinary experience.

The restaurant's design is contemporary yet warm, featuring natural materials, subtle lighting, and an open kitchen that adds theatrical elements to the dining experience. The thoughtfully crafted interior creates intimate spaces while maintaining an energetic atmosphere that resonates with the capital's cosmopolitan spirit.

MKT's menu traverses global cuisines with remarkable finesse. While maintaining respect for authentic flavor profiles, the chefs incorporate contemporary techniques and presentations. The restaurant distinguishes itself with an exceptional wine program and mixology that complements its diverse culinary offerings.

Must-try dishes:

• Korean Fried Chicken with gochujang glaze and pickled vegetables
• House-made Dim Sum with unexpected filling combinations
• The MKT Burger with aged cheddar and truffle aioli
• Wood-fired pizzas with artisanal toppings

Location: The Chanakya, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium)
Average cost for two: ₹3,500-4,500
Contact: +91-11-4360-8899
Rating: 4.6/5
Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekend dinners

7. 1911 Restaurant, The Imperial

Named after the year Delhi was declared the capital of India, 1911 at The Imperial hotel is a dining experience steeped in colonial history and timeless elegance. This restaurant offers a regal setting with its period furniture, historic photographs, and memorabilia that transport diners to a bygone era of sophistication.

The restaurant spans several rooms, each with distinct character—from the sunlit conservatory to the more formal dining hall with its gleaming wood paneling. Immaculate white tablecloths, silver service, and attentive staff complete the picture of classic fine dining rarely found in today's restaurant scene.

1911's menu is as diverse as India's culinary heritage, offering Continental classics alongside Indian specialties. The restaurant maintains traditional recipes while ensuring presentations appeal to contemporary sensibilities. The afternoon tea service has become particularly renowned, offering a quintessentially British experience with an Indian twist.

Must-try dishes:

• Imperial Chicken Curry, a recipe preserved from the hotel's opening days
• Smoked Salmon with traditional accompaniments, impeccably sourced
• Lamb Chops with mint sauce, a nod to Anglo-Indian cuisine
• The elaborate Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, scones, and Indian-inspired pastries

Location: The Imperial, Janpath, New Delhi
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium luxury dining)
Average cost for two: ₹5,500-7,500
Contact: +91-11-2334-1234
Rating: 4.7/5
Reservations: Recommended, essential for Afternoon Tea

8. Olive Bar & Kitchen, Mehrauli

Set against the backdrop of the historic Qutub Minar, Olive Bar & Kitchen occupies a converted Mughal mansion that seamlessly blends heritage architecture with Mediterranean aesthetics. The restaurant's whitewashed walls, blue accents, and lush courtyard create a transportive atmosphere that could easily belong in Santorini or Ibiza rather than South Delhi.

The outdoor seating area, centered around a magnificent ancient banyan tree draped with fairy lights, offers one of Delhi's most romantic dining settings. Indoor spaces maintain the same bohemian-chic vibe with thoughtful design elements that balance sophistication with relaxed comfort.

Chef-driven and seasonal, Olive's menu draws primary inspiration from Mediterranean cuisines while incorporating global influences. The restaurant champions farm-to-table principles, sourcing ingredients from organic farms when possible and maintaining its own herb garden. The wood-fired oven serves as the heart of the kitchen, imparting distinctive flavors to many signature dishes.

Must-try dishes:

• Wild Mushroom Risotto with truffle oil and Parmesan
• Wood-fired Pizzas with artisanal toppings
• Grilled Sea Bass with Mediterranean herbs and lemon
• The legendary Tiramisu, consistently voted among Delhi's best desserts

Location: One Style Mile, Haveli No. 6, Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium)
Average cost for two: ₹4,000-5,000
Contact: +91-11-2952-5378
Rating: 4.5/5
Reservations: Essential, especially for Thursday through Sunday dinner service and Sunday brunch

9. Tamra Restaurant, Shangri-La's Eros Hotel

Tamra at Shangri-La's Eros Hotel represents the evolution of hotel dining, transforming the traditional buffet concept into an interactive culinary journey across five different countries. The restaurant takes its name from the Sanskrit word for copper, reflected in the warm metallic accents throughout its contemporary design.

The restaurant's most distinctive feature is its theatrical open kitchens—separate stations dedicated to Indian, Chinese, Japanese, European, and Southeast Asian cuisines. This design allows diners to interact with chefs, watch their food being prepared, and customize dishes to their preferences. The expansive space balances intimacy with energy through thoughtful lighting and acoustic design.

What distinguishes Tamra is its commitment to authentic preparation methods at each specialized kitchen. Rather than offering diluted interpretations of global cuisines, the restaurant employs specialized chefs for each culinary tradition. The carefully curated menu evolves seasonally while maintaining signature dishes that have gained loyal followers.

Must-try dishes:

• The Japanese sushi and sashimi selection, prepared by dedicated itamae
• Peking Duck carved tableside with traditional accompaniments
• Freshly prepared Indian bread from the tandoor section
• The spectacular dessert spread, particularly the chocolate fountain with housemade confections

Location: Shangri-La's Eros Hotel, 19 Ashoka Road, Connaught Place
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium luxury dining)
Average cost for two: ₹4,500-6,000
Contact: +91-11-4119-1919
Rating: 4.6/5
Reservations: Recommended, especially for Sunday brunch

10. Dakshin, Sheraton New Delhi

Dakshin at Sheraton New Delhi offers the capital's most comprehensive exploration of South Indian cuisine beyond the familiar dosas and idlis. This elegant restaurant showcases the diverse culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana through meticulously researched recipes and traditional cooking methods.

The restaurant's design incorporates classical South Indian architectural elements—brass lamps, wooden pillars, and Tanjore paintings—creating an atmosphere of refined heritage. Traditional Carnatic music plays softly in the background, enhancing the immersive dining experience without overwhelming conversation.

What sets Dakshin apart is its unapologetic authenticity. The restaurant refuses to dilute flavors or preparations to accommodate Northern palates, instead educating diners about regional variations and traditional eating practices. Many dishes are served on banana leaves or traditional metal platters, with accompanying information about their cultural significance.

Must-try dishes:

• Meen Varuval, a spicy Tamil Nadu fish fry with aromatic spices
• Nellore Chepala Pulusu, a tangy Andhra fish curry with tamarind
• Kerala Beef Fry (Erachi Ularthiyathu) with coconut and spices
• The complete Thali experience, offering a balanced sampling of regional specialties

Location: Sheraton New Delhi Hotel, District Centre, Saket
Price range: ₹₹₹₹ (Premium)
Average cost for two: ₹3,500-4,500
Contact: +91-11-4266-1122
Rating: 4.5/5
Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner

Delhi's dining scene continues to evolve, but these ten establishments represent the best of what the capital offers—from preserved culinary heritage to innovative contemporary cuisine. Whether you're seeking the perfect butter chicken, royal Awadhi delicacies, or coastal seafood treasures, these restaurants promise memorable gastronomic journeys that capture the essence of Delhi's diverse culinary landscape.