Rustic, enticing flavors at Afghan Darbar, Lajpat Nagar

Tucked away inconspicuously in an obscure street in Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar is Afghan Darbar restaurant, which serves a wide variety of dishes, derived from traditional Afghan cuisine. The place has become widely popular for its exotic flavors and aromas, and is frequented by foodies who love to gorge on succulent kebabs and delectable rice preparations. The restaurant is also an example of legendary Afghan hospitality, which is easily noticeable when you are served free items along with your order. The prices are also very economical, which indicates that the restaurant cares for its customers, an essential ingredient of Afghan hospitality.

 

Food – Afghan cuisine carries a rich influence from other regions, as it shares its boundaries with several countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, China, Pakistan and Iran. The country was also an important trade route in earlier times, which has influenced its cuisine. Even though the country is now ravaged by war, its cuisine has turned out to be a survivor and is attracting patrons the world over. Afghan cuisine focuses on simplistic preparations, with the food being neither too spicy nor too hot, liberal use of meat and fats, flavorful rice preparations, dishes sprinkled with fruits & nuts and accompanied with salads and yogurt. Food at Afghan Darbar has all of these characteristics, although some dishes may be slightly altered to suit the Indian palette. The restaurant has a simplistic menu, which makes it easier to choose the best items available. Some of the popular dishes that patrons often recommend include Chopan Kabab, Qabuli Uzbeki, Pulao, Qorma Chalao, and Mantu. There are curries also that you can enjoy with Afghani Naan or rice.Desserts include Firni, Sheer Yakh, and Jaala.

 

Ambience – The Persian influence is clearly visible in the ambience of this place. Antique mirrors with ambient lighting adorn the walls, which transport you into a different time and era. Just like the comforts and privileges enjoyed by Persian royalty, there’s also a bed in the restaurant where you can enjoy your kebabs, eithersitting or lying down. The standard seating arrangement, however, is more modern and comes with cushioned booth-style seats and metal & wood tables. The overall look & feel is minimalistic, in line with the true essence of the Afghan countryside.

 

Service – The staff is courteous and will help you choose the best meals, as per your taste and requirement.

 

Timings:

 

• Mon-Sun: 12 Noon to 11 PM

 

Address:

 

• E-96, Lajpat Nagar 2, New Delhi