The Mughlai institution beside Jama Masjid, serving since 1913. Open daily about 9 AM to 12:30 AM (shorter, packed hours during Ramadan). Famed for mutton nihari, seekh kebabs, and tandoori roti. Around Rs 900 for two. Cramped, chaotic, historic, and still the real deal.
Key facts
| Hours | Mon-Sun: ~9:00 AM - 12:30 AM (reduced during Ramadan) |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Jama Masjid Metro (Violet Line), ~5-8 min walk |
| Time needed | 1 hour |
| Best time to go | Early dinner on a weekday; spectacular but mobbed during Ramadan evenings |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
8.2/10- Value8.0
- iconic8.0
- Freshness9.2
- excellence8.0
- Crowd level5.5
- Authenticity9.0
- Accessibility6.5
Frequently asked questions
- What should I order?
- Mutton nihari (best in the morning), seekh and mutton burra kebabs, mutton korma, and the soft tandoori and khameeri rotis. It's a meat lover's paradise. Portions are generous and rich, so order fewer dishes than you think.
- Is there anything for vegetarians?
- Honestly, very little. Karim's is a carnivore's temple built on Mughlai meat cooking. Vegetarians will find slim pickings and are better served elsewhere. Bring meat-eating companions to do it justice.
- Is it open during Ramadan and worth visiting then?
- Yes, and Ramadan (starting around Feb 19 in 2026) turns the whole Jama Masjid area into a legendary food scene. Karim's is electric but extremely crowded at iftar. Go for the atmosphere, but expect waits and elbows.
- Are the other Karim's branches the same?
- The Jama Masjid original is the historic, atmospheric one and the benchmark. Branches elsewhere in Delhi are convenient but lack the setting and, some say, the same magic. This entry covers the Jama Masjid flagship.
- How much does it cost?
- Around Rs 900 for two, sometimes less. It's very reasonable for the quality and portions. Carry cash to be safe, as the old-Delhi lanes and busy counters aren't always card-friendly.
- How do I find it?
- It's tucked in a lane off Matia Mahal, just south of Jama Masjid's Gate 1. Take the Violet Line to Jama Masjid station and walk 5-8 minutes, or ask locals; everyone knows Karim's. The lane is narrow and busy.
- What are the timings?
- Roughly 9:00 AM to 12:30 AM daily, though hours shift during Ramadan around iftar and sehri. Nihari is a morning specialty. Come early evening on a normal day to avoid the worst of the dinner crush.
- Is it clean and comfortable?
- Be realistic: it's an old, cramped, no-frills eatery with basic seating and constant bustle. Hygiene is acceptable for a busy heritage joint but it's not fine dining. Come for the food and history, not comfort.
Nearby in Ask Delhi
- Jama MasjidAttraction0.21 km · 3 min walk
- Natraj Dahi Bhalle WalaRestaurant0.98 km · 12 min walk
- Red Fort (Lal Qila)Attraction1.01 km · 13 min walk
- Partition Museum DelhiMuseum1.59 km · 20 min walk
- Raj Ghat Memorial ParkPark1.74 km · 22 min walk
Where to stay near Karim's
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