Karim Hotel

Description:

• In the heart of Old Delhi, not far from the Jama Masjid, this legendary eatery dates back to 1913, when it was opened by a chef who claimed to have hailed from a family of royal cooks who served, among other guests, the great Mughal emperor Akbar. Come here for the food, and don't be put off by the informal setting; this is the genuine thing. It's primarily a meat-eaters' hangout, and the real princely treats are mutton burra kebabs. The butter-cooked chicken (makhani murgh) is also wonderful, as is the badshahi badam pasanda, mutton cooked with blended almonds and yogurt and fragrant spices. If you're really adventurous, you can also sample exotic fare such as spiced goat trotters, or the advance-order bakra feast -- lamb stuffed with chicken, rice, eggs, and dried fruit, a meal made for a dozen people (about $100/£50). No doubt about it: This is the real deal.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010