An urban marvel boasting characterful architecture and bustling markets, Delhi is one of the most historical cities in India. Here, the founders of fashion brand Lovebirds share their insider guide to Delhi.
Lovebirds founders, Gursi Singh and Amrita Khanna, share the magic of Delhi with their recommendations on the best restaurants, culture and shopping to explore when visiting the city.
The best time to visit:
The best time to visit would definitely be the winter months – it’s a better time to experience the city, not least to skip the scorching summer heat.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
Some great hotels have sprung up in the Aerocity area of Delhi in the last decade, but if you’re one to experience a city for its history, we’d recommend The Imperial Hotel. It’s the oldest hotel in Delhi, reminiscent of 19th century Indian palaces and its architecture has traces of Victorian and Art Deco as well as Lutyens’ styles.
For an early morning workout head to…
In the last few years, so many small workout studios have popped up in Delhi that don’t follow a traditional gym format, but nothing beats an early morning run in Lodhi Gardens.
Where should we go for breakfast?
Fig at Malcha has a great breakfast menu; from the Turkish eggs to the pancakes, nothing disappoints.
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Where can we find the best coffee?
We have a few favourites for coffee. Blue Tokai coffee roasters is an all-time favourite, but recently the coffee at Third Roast alongside their signature fudge is topping the list.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
We love Olive for lazy brunches and lunches; the white pebbled courtyard and banyan canopy transport you to a whole other place. Plus, the food is good too.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
Megu at The Leela is hands down our favourite restaurant, it serves authentic Japanese cuisine.
And for dinner with friends?
Sidecar. It’s an independent LGBTQ+ friendly bar with live music. It has been listed as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars for two years running.
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The drink to order at the bar…
Everything is good at Sidecar, but they have a small Delhi-inspired cocktail menu that we keep returning to.
The best place for people watching…
There’s a spot by the huge glass windows at Perch in Khan Market, it’s the perfect place to sit in stillness and silence as you watch the hustle and bustle of the iconic marketplace pass by outside.
The culture spot to rave about…
Dhan Mill has to be the newest culture spot. It houses clothing brands, art galleries and cafes. It also regularly hosts pop ups and small music events, but it is the collaborative events that give the place life. We recently hosted a two-day event at Dhan Mill and invited artists and friends to exhibit their works, perform, and meet other like-minded people.
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Where can we go shopping?
Again, and without bias, Dhan Mill is the place to shop if you are averse to shopping at high street brands, it has a great mix of Indian and western brands.
For the best views head to…
While Delhi doesn’t necessarily boast nature, valleys or beaches, the character of Delhi lies in its architecture. The monuments all speak eloquently of the era they were built, narrating the story of the city right from Mughal Delhi to Colonial Delhi and through to New Delhi as we know it today.
One place only locals know about…
There are hidden nooks and corners everywhere. You just have to spend enough time in the city to know which one is for you.
A book to read before we go?
The City of Djinns by William Dalrymple and Delhi by Khushwant Singh are unmissable.
For a change of pace try…
Spending some time at FabCafe by the lake at Sunder Nursery.
Souvenir to take home?
Janpath and Dilli Haat have handicrafts from across the country, and nothing will remind you more of India than a beautiful handmade mirrorwork throw.
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In one word, Delhi is…
Dynamic.
A must-try spot for date night?
Our personal favourite is Megu at The Leela because we share a fondness for authentic Japanese food, but San Gimignano at The Imperial is a close second, the al fresco terrace is the perfect setting for date night.
The best place to treat yourself is…
Any of Delhi’s hotel spas will do wonders with a stone massage or aromatherapy session.
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Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…
Dhan Mill – again. It’s close to us, has great food and coffee and is fast becoming a casual and cultural destination for all.
Great day trips include…
Agra for the Taj Mahal is the best day trip for someone who’s visiting India for the first time.
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Street-food stall hopping.
Essential items to pack?
Sunscreen, a camera, a book, walking shoes if you’re exploring on foot, and a bigger suitcase for all the gifts you’re going to carry back.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?