India’s culinary heritage is best discovered not only through recipes, but through places where food and history come together. From heritage cafés to legendary kitchens, culinary tours of India often lead travelers to time-honoured restaurants that have shaped the country’s food culture for generations. These iconic establishments are more than dining spots—they are living chapters of India’s story, making them essential stops on India food tours and culinary tour India itineraries for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
These are some of India’s oldest restaurants, where travelers from around the world often stop to experience authentic flavours and timeless traditions. Would you like to visit them as part of your India culinary tours?
Old Restaurants in India
There are many restaurants in India where you can enjoy the charm of old-world dining. Visiting these places is like stepping into history, where you are not only served delicious food but also introduced to traditions passed down through generations. This is why such establishments are often highlighted in India food tours packages and cultural food tours of India.
They say old things bring back memories—and India’s oldest restaurants do exactly that. These places tell stories of changing eras while serving food with the same dedication as decades ago. Food trends evolved, technology advanced, and eating habits changed, yet the taste and trust of these restaurants remained untouched. From grandparents to today’s young generation, people have been coming here for years. Dining at these historic venues feels like time has paused, making them some of the best places to eat food in India for heritage lovers. Let’s explore them.
Indian Coffee House
The Indian Coffee House began in 1936 and is now one of the most recognizable café chains in the country, with branches in cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram. The food here is simple yet full of flavour—dosa, cutlets, and filter coffee are its specialties. This iconic café remains a favourite among students, writers, and intellectuals, and is often included in India food tour places focused on local culture.
Glenary’s Bakery and Cafe
Glenary’s, the famous bakery and café in Darjeeling, started in 1911 and still reflects the charm of the British era. Its cakes, pastries, fresh bread, and English breakfast are extremely popular. Most visitors to Darjeeling make it a point to stop here, making Glenary’s a classic highlight of India food tours in the Himalayan region.
Karim’s
Karim’s, located in Old Delhi near Jama Masjid, was established in 1913 and is deeply connected to the tradition of Mughal royal chefs. Famous for its mutton curry, kebabs, and nihari, this restaurant attracts both domestic and international travelers. Karim’s is often considered a must-visit on any best India food tour, offering a true taste of royal Mughlai cuisine.
Britannia & Co.
Established in 1923 in Mumbai’s Ballard Estate, Britannia & Co. is a legendary Parsi restaurant known for its berry pulao, keema, and caramel custard. Its old-world furniture and simple ambiance add to the experience, making it a favourite stop on culinary tours of India that focus on community cuisines and heritage dining.
Flurys Cafe
Kolkata’s iconic Flurys Cafe started in 1927 and remains a landmark on Park Street. Known for its cakes, pastries, macarons, and English breakfast, Flurys continues to serve classic European flavours. Sitting here with coffee and desserts is a timeless experience, making it a popular inclusion in India food tours and cultural city walks.
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