Ask any traveler (not tourists) and they’ll tell you that the most ideal way to go about exploring a place is by tucking into its local delicacies. While it’s normal to be tempted to check out the most happening spots in town, few things compare to the joy of digging into a plate of goodness from an iconic eatery that has stood the test of time.

Some of these establishments have been run by multiple generations of the same family, while staying true to the original recipes. No wonder they continue to enjoy the same popularity that they did decades ago. While not exhaustive, here are some of the most iconic ones that merit a visit.  

Delhi 

Wenger’s

Touted as one of those fail-safe bakeries in the city to grab a quick bite or plan a date night, Wenger’s enjoys a loyal fanbase for its chicken, mushroom patties and shammi kababs besides its confectionaries since the year 1926. Located in Connaught Place, it’s buzzing with people on most days, so avoid weekends for obvious reasons.  

United Coffee House  

Having been in the business for 80 years and counting, UCH has a legacy that stands second to none. Visit the fine dining spot—located in Connaught Place—UCH is replete with British-themed decor, which continues to boast a robust fanbase thanks to the Kona Coffee, Tomato Fish, Coq Au Vin, Chicken A La Kiev, Murgh Makhana and Nargis Ke Kofte. Legend has it that the outlet was once the haunt for freedom fighters and high-ranking government officials to dig into some good grub while charting out a plan for World War II. 

Karim’s 

Meat lovers in town or those visiting the capital are often recommended a visit to Karim’s for obvious reasons. Known for their tender, melt-in-mouth Mughlai delicacies, the Jama Masjid outpost has been around for decades. Don’t leave without trying their iconic specialties: Alu gosht (mutton with potatoes) and Nihari, which they usually run out of by 9 am.  

Mumbai  

Gaylord  

Known to serve up a host of culinary gems with a slice of nostalgia since the year 1961, Gaylord—the iconic eatery on Churchgate—is a must-visit for myriad reasons. But for starters, we’d suggest going for the food mainly. Their north Indian fare comprising delicacies like Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka, Biryani, Rogan Josh and Blue Cheese Naan are known to never disappoint.  

Café Mondegar 

As one of Mumbai’s first and only cafes to have a vintage jukebox, the café has been a landmark of sorts on Colaba Causeway since its inception in 1932. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, the famous eatery is often visited (and loved) for its Bacon-Wrapped Prawns and Beef Chilli, and of course the special Steak Cheese Burger.   

Pancham Puriwala  

This centuries-old eatery is possibly your best bet for all things snackable. Go for the Puri Bhaji (which is available in different variants) but don’t forget to gorge on other aamchi Mumbai chaats that won’t cost you more than Rs 300.  

Bengaluru 

MTR 

Dotted with multiple outlets across town, it isn’t tough to spot an MTR in Bengaluru. Their Podi and Thatte Idlis are just as loved as their Masala and Rava Dosas, which are usually accompanied by a generous helping of homemade ghee. A meal at MTR is incomplete without their filter Kaapi. So, stick to the rules and enjoy a south Indian fiesta! 

Nagarjuna  

While wading through Koramangala’s bottleneck traffic is cumbersome, it’s worth it if you’re headed to Nagarjuna. Known for their authentic Andhra meals, which are best had with a side of piping hot Chilli Chicken, you can even opt for their succulent biryani and mini meals, which are just as good.  

Vidyarthi Bhavan  

A true haven for lovers of south-Indian cuisine, Vidyarthi Bhavan in Bengaluru’s quaint Basavanagudi is a humble vegetarian tiffin eatery that continues to enjoy unflinching loyalty from its patrons since its establishment in 1943. Known for their dosas and filter coffee, regional delicacies like Kesari and Khara Bhaath are major bestsellers too.  

Pune  

Vohuman 

Well-known for its scrumptious breakfast fare and unfussy ambience, Vohuman is a lively café—established in 1978—, popularly known to be the place to dig into snacks like Bun Maska, Cheese Omelettes and the likes for as much as Rs 30. The Irani Chai is another highlight that deserves a special mention. The legendary Iranian café is situated in Camp, and continues to be one of the most loved Iranian cafes in Pune.  

Yezdan  

Even if you aren’t a morning person, Yezdan will convince you to become one. Comprising specials like their signature Egg Bhurji, Sali Scrambled Eggs and Chutney Sandwiches, the 64-year-old Irani café (established in the year 1964) is a great breakfast haunt for people who enjoy a hearty fare.  

Good Luck Cafe 

Located in one of the poshest locales in Pune, the Good Luck Café is most frequented for its affordable yet downright delicious snacking options like Bun Maska, Chai, Egg and Veg Puffs, Bun Omelette and Mutton Kheema.  

Jaipur 

Anokhi Cafe

Founded in 2007, Anoki Cafe isn’t a vintage cafe per se, though there’s a certain rustic charm to the space. Specially catering to those with an eye for homegrown produce, Anokhi serves up a volley of interesting dishes ranging from fresh buddha bowls and salads to filling sandwiches and baked goods. Since offering the freshest of produce is of utmost importance, the menu is subjected to constant change, basis what’s in season. 

Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar 

A culinary journey spanning close to three centuries, the Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar in Jaipur’s Biseswarji is known for elaborate Rajasthani treats like Ghewar, Rasmalai and Dal Bati Churma on the menu besides its authentic Rajasthani Thali. Their service is top-notch. We’d say, ‘go for the vibe, but stay for the food’.