Bengali Market, one of Delhi’s oldest and most popular food destinations, is a haven for food lovers. Located near Connaught Place and Mandi House, this market is famous for its iconic sweet shops, street food, and traditional North Indian delicacies. Despite its name, Bengali Market is not directly related to West Bengal but is named after its founder, Bengali Mal Lohia. Over the years, this market has evolved into a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists who want to experience Delhi’s rich culinary heritage.
Whether you’re craving a plate of spicy chaat, mouth-watering sweets, or a quick bite of Delhi’s favorite snacks, Bengali Market has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Bengali Market, including its history, famous food joints, accessibility, recent developments, and frequently asked questions.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Bengali Market, New Delhi, near Mandi House, Barakhamba Road. |
| Famous For | Iconic eateries, North Indian snacks, sweets, and street food. |
| Popular Eateries | – Nathu’s Sweets |
| – Bengali Sweet House | |
| – Jain Coffee House | |
| Cuisine Offered | Sweets, chaat, samosas, kachori, pav bhaji, golgappa, and Indian desserts like rasmalai. |
| Timing | Market opens daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Shopping Options | Limited, primarily food-focused, but nearby Mandi House adds to the experience. |
| Accessibility | Closest metro stations: Mandi House (Blue Line & Violet Line). Easily accessible by car. |
| Best Time to Visit | Evening hours (for snacks and lively ambiance) or late afternoons. |
| Nearby Attractions | – Mandi House Theatre |
| – India Gate | |
| – National Gallery of Modern Art | |
| – Pragati Maidan | |
| History | One of Delhi’s oldest markets, established in the early 20th century, retaining its charm. |
A Brief History of Bengali Market
Established in the early 1930s by businessman Bengali Mal Lohia, Bengali Market was originally intended to be a small commercial hub in the heart of New Delhi. However, it quickly gained popularity as a food destination, attracting people from all over the city.
Located just a stone’s throw away from Mandi House, the market is frequented by theater-goers, students, and professionals working in the area. It has maintained its old-world charm while adapting to modern tastes and preferences. Today, Bengali Market is best known for its legendary eateries, particularly Nathu’s Sweets and Bengali Sweet House, which have been serving delectable Indian delicacies for decades.
Food Paradise: What to Eat in Bengali Market
Bengali Market is synonymous with delicious food. From crispy golgappas to creamy rabri, here are the must-try dishes when you visit:
1. Nathu’s Sweets
Established in 1939, Nathu’s Sweets is one of the most famous sweet shops in Delhi. This iconic eatery serves a variety of North Indian snacks, sweets, and fast food items. Some of their must-try dishes include:
- Chole Bhature – A classic North Indian dish that is spicy, flavorful, and incredibly filling.
- Raj Kachori – A crispy kachori filled with yogurt, chutneys, and spices, making it an explosion of flavors.
- Rasgulla & Gulab Jamun – Soft, spongy, and dripping with sugar syrup, these sweets are an absolute delight.
- Dhokla & Khandvi – Light and spongy Gujarati snacks that are perfect for a quick bite.
2. Bengali Sweet House
Located right next to Nathu’s, Bengali Sweet House is another popular eatery serving traditional Indian sweets and snacks. Some of their specialties include:
- Aloo Tikki – Deep-fried potato patties served with tangy chutneys.
- Pav Bhaji – A spicy mashed vegetable curry served with buttered buns.
- Lassi & Kulfi – Cool and refreshing dairy-based drinks and desserts.
3. Street Food Delights
Apart from these two legendary shops, the market also has various street vendors selling fresh juices, fruit chaat, and snacks like samosas and pakoras. The flavors, aromas, and vibrant atmosphere make Bengali Market a paradise for street food lovers.
Shopping and Other Attractions
While Bengali Market is primarily known for its food, it also has a few general stores, flower shops, and small boutiques. The market is located close to several cultural and historical landmarks, making it an ideal place to grab a meal before or after exploring the city.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mandi House – Delhi’s theater district, home to National School of Drama (NSD) and Kamani Auditorium.
- India Gate – One of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks, just a short drive away.
- Connaught Place (CP) – Delhi’s commercial and shopping hub, filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Accessibility and Location
How to Reach Bengali Market
Bengali Market is easily accessible via multiple modes of transport:
- Metro: The nearest Delhi Metro station is Mandi House (Blue & Violet Lines), just a 5-minute walk from the market.
- Bus: Several DTC buses pass through Barakhamba Road and Tansen Marg, which are close to Bengali Market.
- Auto & Taxi: Rickshaws, cabs, and auto-rickshaws are readily available from Connaught Place and other parts of Delhi.
- Parking: Limited parking is available, but it’s best to avoid bringing a car during peak hours.
Recent Developments and Updates
Bengali Market continues to thrive despite urban changes and modernization. Recently, efforts have been made to maintain hygiene and cleanliness in the area. Authorities have introduced waste management systems, making the market cleaner and more environment-friendly. Additionally, many eateries now offer digital payments, making transactions seamless for customers.
During festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri, Bengali Market is bustling with activity as people flock to buy sweets and festive snacks. However, this also means heavy crowds, so plan your visit accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the opening hours of Bengali Market?
Bengali Market is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. However, timings may vary for different shops, especially on festivals and public holidays.
2. Is Bengali Market actually related to Bengal?
No, despite its name, Bengali Market is not related to West Bengal. It was named after its founder, Bengali Mal Lohia.
3. Are vegetarian food options available?
Yes, Bengali Market is famous for its vegetarian food. Most of the eateries here serve pure vegetarian dishes.
4. Is there parking available at Bengali Market?
Parking is limited, especially during peak hours. It’s recommended to use public transport like the metro to avoid parking hassles.
5. What is the best time to visit Bengali Market?
Evenings are the best time to visit as the market is lively and bustling. However, if you want to avoid crowds, visit during mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays.
Conclusion
Bengali Market remains one of Delhi’s most cherished food hubs, attracting generations of food lovers with its irresistible flavors and timeless charm. Whether you’re indulging in a plate of chole bhature, savoring a crispy raj kachori, or just enjoying the bustling atmosphere, a visit to Bengali Market promises a delightful experience.
So, the next time you’re in Delhi, make sure to stop by Bengali Market and treat yourself to some of the city’s best street food and sweets!
