Delhi is a city that is famous for its delicious street food, which reflects the heritage and history of the capital. Most of the street food vendors, however, are men who dominate the market and the public spaces. But some women are breaking the stereotypes and running their food stalls, serving mouth-watering dishes and snacks to the customers.
Here are some of the best women-run street food joints in Delhi-NCR that you must check out.
Located in Rohini, this food stall is run by Neha, who bought a Chinese food van to start her culinary journey. She is a vegetarian and a non-Bihari, but she learned how to make Champaran meat from her father-in-law, who is from Bihar. Champaran meat is a traditional dish of mutton cooked in a clay pot with spices and herbs. Neha serves this dish with rice, salad and raita, and it is a hit among meat lovers.
Additionally, her menu includes delectable options like chicken curry, biryani, and kebabs. Starting her business amidst numerous challenges and obstacles, Neha has now emerged as a proud testament to her skills and accomplishments.
Address: Rohini sector 20/21 dividing road, near rose convent school, Delhi
For more information, read here.
Located in Malviya Nagar, a food stall operated by sisters Kakuli and Poornima has become a realisation of their dream to own a food joint. The sisters specialise in offering home-style meals like dal, rice, roti, sabzi and salad, which are fresh, healthy and affordable. They also make delicious chaat, gol gappas, and samosas, which are popular among the customers.
Known for their friendly and warm demeanour, Kakuli and Poornima they always greet their customers with a smile. Over the past two years, their dedication has garnered them a dedicated following. If you are in Delhi, you can visit their stall near Panchsheel Park metro station in Malviya Nagar and enjoy their food.
Address: Panchsheel Park metro station, gate no.1, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi
Dolma Aunty holds a legendary status in Delhi's street food culture as a trailblazer in introducing momos to the city. Her journey began in 1994 at the Lajpat Nagar market, at a time when momos were relatively unknown and not widely popular. Picking up the recipe from her Tibetan neighbours, she added her unique twists and innovations. Her momos are soft, juicy and packed with flavour, served alongside her signature and they come with spicy red chutney and mayonnaise.
Beyond the classic momo, she also offers fusion flavours, like fried, tandoori and cheese. Dolma Aunty, known for her humility and tireless work ethic, has inspired many other women to start their own food stalls.
Address: Lajpat Nagar
for more information, read here.
This food stall in Krishna Nagar is run by a mother-daughter duo who make the best butter chicken in town. They use fresh and tender chicken pieces, which are marinated in spices and yoghurt and then cooked in a rich and creamy gravy.
Their culinary repertoire extends to other delectable dishes such as dal makhani, paneer butter masala, and kadhai chicken, each garnering praise for its deliciousness and heartiness. With over a decade of operation, their stall, known as Shree Maakhan, has amassed a substantial and dedicated following.
Address: Plot No. F-601-603, Near Ramphal Chowk
For more information, read here.
These exemplary women-led street food joints in Delhi-NCR are a must-visit, not just for their scrumptious and hygienic offerings but also as beacons of inspiration, encouraging other women to pursue their dreams and passions. They are the true heroes of the street food culture of Delhi.