No Delhiite can ever put his love for Butter Chicken in words. The city’s most loved dish has unofficially acquired the title of ‘dish that defines Delhi’ on more than one occasion.

The dish was invented in 1947, at Moti Mahal in Daryaganj and now has been replicated by many in various other eateries. The curry for this dish is mildly spiced and it’s also famous by the name of Murgh Makhni. Firstly, the chicken is marinated overnight in yoghurt and spices like garam masala, dhaniya powder, salt, chili, turmeric, fenugreek, ginger-garlic, lemon juice, butter and chilli. After marination, in most cases, the chicken is barbecued first and then added to the gravy while some like to cook it along with the curry. The curry is made out of tomatoes, cream and kasuri methi. The key is to achieve the right balance of spices, salt and sweetness of the tomatoes. The curry shouldn’t taste like tomato ketchup or overtly sweet. The final touch is to add oodles of butter into the curry and serve it hot with a garlic naan.

However, if you’re not in a mood to cook, we have got a perfect solution for you. Hit these places in the heart of the city, Connaught Place and have a meal consisting of Butter Chicken, to fill up your stomach as well as heart.

Kake Da Hotel

Butter Chicken is best when it’s got chicken with bones. Made in pure desi ghee, this place has acquired a legendary status by popularizing this dish amongst masses. The recipe for this has been passed on from one generation to other. The queue outside the eatery is a proof that this is what you need to eat if you’re a butter chicken fan. Best time to go is between 5-7 PM or else you ‘ll have to wait for long.
Address: 67, Municipal Market, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Ambrosia Bliss

This restaurant, which is spread over 3 different sections, serves world cuisine. They are famous for hosting a lot of corporate parties and live gigs, but their food is a big highlight. They serve delicious Dilli wala Butter Chicken and the portions are good too. Must visit if you like great food with a great view.
Address: L-51,54, 2nd Floor, Outer Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Zaffran

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Hotel Palace Heights and enjoys the luxury of open kitchen, huge glass windows overlooking the beautiful Connaught place. They serve Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Tikka cooked in mild tomato gravy with cream and khoya. The restaurant serves variety of Indian breads, but their Pudina Lachcha Parantha is the best and pairing it with you Chicken Tikka Masala can give you ample amount of happy vibes.
Address: D-26/28, Hotel Palace Heights, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Desi Vibes

Enjoy the earthy, traditional atmospherics of Desi Vibes, a complete family restaurant in Connaught Place. Located on the second floor of N block, this place is famous for serving North Indian Cuisine. Have their Murgh Makhni with Butter Roti and enjoy listening to folk songs in the background. They also serve an array of in house pickles, which are complementary.
Address: 2nd Floor, N-95, Outer Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Farzi Café

After the successful debut at Cyber Hub in Gurgaon, Farzi Café has come to the heart of the city. This bistro is a pioneer in experimenting with Indian food and giving it a modern avatar. The Tapas style menu offers a huge variety of whacky food, but one can easily fall in love with their Chicken Tikka Masala. It’s served along with the naan and the presentation is mighty impressive. You can also enjoy a quirky cocktail along with it.
Address: E Block, Connaught Place, Inner circle, New Delhi

Q’ba

One of the oldest restaurants in Connaught Place and also the one with the best view of Central Park, Q’Ba is a legend in its own right. They are known for being the best amongst serving multi-cuisine food. The Butter Chicken here is one of their most popular dishes and it’s finger licking good, guaranteed.  This is one restaurant, which is good to go to when you’re out on a date or dining with your family.
Address: E – 42 & 43, Inner Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi