Karim's — Review by Mark Wiens
Delhi, India — Mughlai Indian
Karim's is a legendary 110-year-old institution in Old Delhi serving exceptional Mughlai cuisine, particularly renowned for their mutton specialties. Mark Wiens tried their signature dishes including perfectly tender mutton brain curry, mutton ka, and chicken ishtew, all featuring rich, spiced gravies and melting textures. The restaurant's historical significance and consistently high-quality food make it a must-visit destination.
What was great: Legendary mutton dishes including mutton brain curry, mutton ka (goat meat), chicken ishtew, and chicken tikka. Over 100 years of culinary tradition with perfectly balanced spices, creamy textures, and rich gravies. The atmosphere and historical significance of the restaurant.
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
Karim's showcases an impressive array of traditional Mughlai dishes that have been perfected over a century. The chicken tikka arrived perfectly juicy and flavorful with a smoky tandoori taste, requiring no accompaniments as the spices penetrated all the way to the bone. The standout dish was undoubtedly the mutton brain curry, which arrived wobbling and creamy, melting instantly in the mouth with a luxurious texture complemented by turmeric and onion gravy that balanced richness with warmth.
The mutton ka, made from goat meat, showcased tender pieces that fell off the bone with a distinctive grainy gravy texture infused with yogurt for tanginess and aromatic spices like cinnamon. Each bite dissolved on the palate, creating a harmonious blend of warming spices and tender meat completely saturated in the sauce. The chicken ishtew represented another specialty, featuring chunky onion-based gravy with whole spices including black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and fresh ginger and green chilies. The sauce was so flavorful and balanced between sweetness from caramelized onions and heat from the spices that it demanded to be savored completely.
The Experience
Karim's occupies an entire courtyard area with multiple seating sections, creating an oasis of calm amidst the chaotic streets of Old Delhi. The restaurant's expansive layout allows guests to sit anywhere while receiving the same quality food. The atmosphere balances the intensity of Old Delhi's street food culture with a more organized dining experience, though still maintaining that authentic, bustling energy of the historic district.
Value and Pricing
While specific prices weren't mentioned in the transcript, Karim's represents exceptional value given its legendary status, 110-year history, and the quality and portion sizes of the dishes. The pricing appears reasonable for dishes of this caliber and historical significance.
Notable Moments
They have been doing it for over a hundred years. One of the most respected restaurants in Delhi.Mark was visibly impressed by how each dish demonstrated mastery of traditional Mughlai cooking techniques, particularly noting the importance of balance in spices and the quality of ingredients like premium mutton and the signature brain preparations.
The Verdict
Karim's is an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring Old Delhi's food scene, particularly those seeking authentic Mughlai cuisine and mutton specialties. The restaurant's century-long track record of excellence makes it ideal for food enthusiasts wanting to experience Delhi's culinary heritage served in a more structured environment than typical street food. Whether you're a beginner to Indian cuisine or an experienced food lover, Karim's delivers consistently exceptional dishes that honor traditional recipes and techniques.