Comparatively to other metropolitan cities, Delhi retains an old-fashioned timeless charm that endears the city to us. Its backdrop of crumbling majestic forts, dust coated lanes of old Delhi and miles and miles of greenery that runs between the residential pockets, only elevates its ancient vibe. Though it may have come a long way on scales of modernity, it still thrives on its deep roots and traditional classic values. And what can be more classic than those quaint old restaurants belonging to the bygone era, still tucked away in numerous lanes of this glorious city. One of the survivors of the trendy modern gastronomic influx is the famous ‘Surang’, nestled in the heart of Delhi i.e. Connaught Place at Hotel Alka Classic. It is said to be one of the oldest restaurants in Delhi and for many home away from home.
Surang enjoys a set of local patrons that have been coming to the restaurant for decades. Part of an aging hotel holding onto it’s old-fashioned vibe, Surang is an iconic eatery for old school Delhiites. While it may have kept itself away from the latest trends, it’s food is still as good. It uses high quality ingredients to bring authenticity to the dishes. Their menu is a drool-worthy mix of North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Wade into the menu through starters like, murg malai tikka, dahi kebab, egg pakora, khumb tandoori, fish tikka hariyali. Get your curry fix with dishes like, gosht kadhai, navrattan korma, murg makhanwala, Mughlai gobhi, machli tariwali, chana masala, mutton roganjosh, paneer butter masala, Kashmiri aloo, gosht curry, mater mushroom and murg mirch masala.
A bowl of biryani or a basket of flatbreads is a great way to enjoy their curries. Conclude the meal with a selection of yummy Indian desserts. Anything between, moong dal halwa, kheer, matka kulfi, gajar halwa or gulab jamun would be excellent. There is a smattering of Continental dishes as well, in case you don’t feel like indulging in curries. No alcohol is served at Surang, make do with a cooler. Interiors are decidedly old-fashioned. They have an old world charm, which it’s regulars love. From old filmy songs to the vintage décor, Surang transports you back in time. It may not have updated it’s look but it remains in our good books for it’s consistency and top notch flavors. Book ahead. Prices are moderate.
- Try their 'Mutton Biryani'- cooked dum-pukht style
- If you are fond of old film songs, you know where to head
- There is a certain sort of inverted snobbery associated with Surang