10 Old Restaurants in India that are a Must-Visit

India is home to many restaurants but there are some old restaurants that are celebrated for serving authentic food.

Some eateries are well over 100 years old and continue to serve the same food as they did when they first opened.

They have stood the test of time, serving generations of patrons with their exquisite flavours, warm hospitality and a glimpse into the country’s vibrant past.

From Delhi to Uttar Pradesh, these old restaurants have become cultural landmarks and culinary institutions in their own right.

We invite you to embark on a gastronomic journey through India, exploring 10 old restaurants that are a must-visit for any food enthusiast or avid traveller.

These establishments have preserved the essence of traditional recipes, techniques, and ambience, offering an authentic and nostalgic dining experience.

Tunday Kababi

Located in Lucknow, Tunday Kababi is believed to have been established in 1905 by Haji Murad Ali, the one-armed star cook of the Nawab.

He prepared Buffalo Meat Galouti Kebab with at least 100 spices, including some aphrodisiacs.

The Nawab found the kebab so delicious that he immediately declared Haji the winner.

The kebab quickly became popular and eventually resulted in Tunday Kababi, which continues to serve Awadhi cuisine, using the same age-old spice blends.

The quaint eatery continues to stand strong, with locals lining up to enjoy its authentic dishes.

Dorabjee & Sons

A charming restaurant in Pune, Dorabjee & Sons was founded by Sorabjee Dorabjee in 1878.

Initially a tea stall, the eatery served treats like Bun Maska and Irani Chai.

Due to demand, it began serving traditional lunches and eventually became a full-service restaurant.

The menu is simple, serving authentic Parsi dishes. Thanks to their secret recipes, dishes are familiar while still being so distinctive.

The restaurant even continues to stick to its roots, using menus where the prices are still in Indian annas.

Karim’s

Karim’s may be a restaurant chain but its oldest restaurant is located near the Jama Masjid in Delhi, having been open since 1913.

Serving Mughlai cuisine, Karim’s is a popular spot for locals.

The menu showcases recipes that have been passed down through generations.

Dishes are characterised by the generous use of spices, aromatic herbs and slow-cooking methods.

Some of the popular dishes include Kebabs, Tandoori Bhara, Mutton Korma, Mutton Stew, Chicken Mughlai and Chicken Jahangiri.

Karim’s is currently an established hotel with a restaurant, meaning customers travel from all over India.

Leopold Cafe

This legendary restaurant in Mumbai is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Opened in 1871, Leopold Cafe exudes an old-world charm, with its distinctive red facade and large windows that allow glimpses of the bustling streets outside.

Inside there is a blend of rustic and contemporary elements, with the walls adorned with vintage photos, posters and artwork.

The menu is particularly known for its fusion of Indian and continental dishes, reflecting Mumbai’s diverse culinary landscape.

Whether you’re craving traditional Indian curries, sizzling tandoori platters, hearty burgers or indulgent desserts, Leopold Cafe has something to satisfy every palate.

But one highlight of this old restaurant is the range of refreshing drinks.

From classic cocktails and mocktails to a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits, Leopold Cafe provides ample choices for those looking to relax and enjoy a drink or two.

Glenary’s

Glenary’s is situated in Darjeeling, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas.

Established in 1927, Glenary’s has become an iconic landmark in the region, known for its colonial charm, delectable food, and panoramic views.

This iconic restaurant is renowned for its delectable bakery and confectionery offerings.

From the classic Darjeeling tea cake to the indulgent chocolate truffle pastry, the bakery delights cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

In addition to its bakery, Glenary’s also houses a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves an array of delicious dishes.

From English breakfasts to Indian specialities and continental favourites, the menu offers a diverse range of options to satisfy different palates.

The restaurant’s cosy ambience and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Britannia & Co.

Established in 1923, Britannia & Co. has earned an iconic status and is celebrated for its old-world charm, Parsi cuisine, and timeless ambience.

Located in Mumbai, this old restaurant is housed in a heritage building Britannia and Co is housed in a heritage building that reflects its rich history.

Its menu features an array of mouthwatering dishes that have stood the test of time.

From their signature Berry Pulao, a fragrant rice dish infused with aromatic spices, caramelised onions, and succulent berries, to the flavourful Dhansak, a traditional lentil and meat curry, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s culinary heritage.

The restaurant also serves Parsi-style desserts.

One favourite is the Caramel Custard, which is a creamy caramelised custard topped with a luscious caramel sauce.

In addition to the delicious food, Britannia & Co. has a connection to Bollywood, having become a popular filming location for various movies.

Shaikh Brothers Bakery

This iconic eatery was first established as a soda water plant by Shaikh Ibrahim in 1882.

After early success, Shaikh Sobiruddin joined him and created the bakery in 1885.

It is Guwahati’s most famous bakery and at the time, it was considered Assam’s entry into Western food.

Hot dogs, burgers, sweets and more are now available.

But it still serves the original pastries, biscuits and cheese straws.

According to the website, India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was known to be “extremely fond” of the eatery’s cheese straws.

During visits to Guwahati, his daughter Indira Gandhi had her security staff stand by the restaurant’s ovens while her favourite bread was baked and packed.

Kesar da Dhaba

This old Indian restaurant was established by Lala Kesar Mal in 1916 near Lahore. It moved to Amritsar after Partition in 1947.

The eatery has become synonymous with authentic Punjabi cuisine and is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and travellers.

Kesar da Dhaba is renowned for its vegetarian Punjabi cuisine, focusing on traditional recipes and flavours.

The menu features an array of mouthwatering dishes, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail and using the finest locally sourced ingredients.

One of the standout dishes at Kesar da Dhaba is their signature Daal Makhani. When paired with their famous Amritsari Kulcha, it makes for a truly satisfying meal.

The restaurant also offers a variety of other Punjabi delicacies, including Sarson Ka Saag, Makki Ki Roti, Chole Bhature and Paneer Tikka, all of which showcase the authentic flavours and culinary heritage of the region.

Flurys

Flurys has been in Kolkata enchanting patrons since 1927.

With its old-world charm and delectable offerings, this famous tearoom has become an institution in Kolkata’s culinary landscape.

Flurys welcomes diners with its classic European-inspired facade and charming entrance adorned with large glass windows and a traditional signboard.

Flurys is renowned for its selection of teas, coffees and a range of pastries, cakes and confectionery.

The tearoom boasts a display counter filled with an array of tempting treats, from delicate macarons and flaky croissants to rich chocolate truffles and decadent cakes.

The menu at Flurys is a celebration of both Western and Indian flavours. While they excel in European-inspired pastries and baked goods, they also offer an assortment of savoury snacks and light meals.

Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional English breakfast, a comforting pot of Darjeeling tea, or an indulgent slice of Black Forest gateau, Flurys caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Laxmi Misthan Bhandar

Rajasthan’s Laxmi Misthan Bhandar has been delighting locals and visitors alike since its establishment in 1950.

Famously known as LMB, it has earned a reputation for its delectable Rajasthani cuisine and traditional sweets.

LMB is renowned for its extensive menu that showcases the rich flavours of Rajasthani cuisine.

From aromatic Daal Bati Churma, which is a combination of lentils, baked bread and sweetened crushed wheat, to the tangy and spicy Laal Maas, a fiery meat curry cooked with red chillies, the restaurant offers a diverse range of authentic Rajasthani delicacies.

But one of the highlights is the traditional thali, which features curries, fragrant rice, poppadoms and various side dish.

The thali experience at LMB is a culinary journey through the vibrant flavours of Rajasthan.

These old restaurants not only offer a culinary experience but also serve as windows into India’s history, culture and traditions.

They have witnessed the passage of time, serving locals and tourists, and have become an integral part of their respective cities’ cultural fabric.

Therefore, they are a must-visit for food lovers!