Old Famous Jalebi Wala

Old Famous Jalebi Wala is one of the oldest sweet shops in Old Delhi and a standard stop on any food walk through Chandni Chowk. It has been making jalebis since 1884, and the name says exactly what it does: this is a shop devoted to one sweet, made the same way for generations.

Jalebis are spirals of fermented batter, piped into hot fat, fried until crisp and then soaked in sugar syrup. Here they are fried in pure desi ghee and dipped in a syrup made with khandsari, a traditional unrefined sugar. Eaten hot, straight from the pan, they are crunchy outside and syrupy within, which is exactly how they should be.

For an even richer treat, order them with rabri, sweetened, thickened milk poured over the hot jalebis. The combination of crisp and creamy is a classic of Delhi's sweet shops and worth trying at least once. Ask for a small portion to taste, or a box to share with friends. A shared portion is the best way to try both versions.

Expect a crowd at busy times, as this is one of the best-known names on the street. According to Delhi Tourism, the shop is open every day from 8am to 10pm, so it works for a morning snack, an afternoon break or dessert after dinner in Old Delhi. It is very sweet and very rich, so a small portion is enough for most people, and a glass of water afterwards helps.

It suits anyone with a sweet tooth, street-food enthusiasts and families. Prices are low, and it is an easy introduction to Old Delhi street food, since the jalebis are served piping hot. If you are joining a food walk through Chandni Chowk, there is a good chance it will stop here, but it is just as easy to visit on your own.

The shop is on Chandni Chowk, and the nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line. Combine it with a walk through the bazaars such as Dariba Kalan, a visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib or a stop at Paranthe Wali Gali for something savoury.