When Chef Gaurav Anand decided to open Dilli Dilli in Times Square, it raised eyebrows. Times Square, known for its bright lights, crowds, and sensory overload, didn’t seem like the ideal spot for a refined dining experience. Yet, one year later, Dilli Dilli has proven skeptics wrong, carving a niche as a sanctuary of authentic Indian cuisine in one of New York City’s busiest areas.
Bridging the traditional and contemporary, Dilli Dilli combines the rich, rustic flavors of Old Delhi with the cosmopolitan flair of New Delhi. The menu features dishes like reimagined chaat platters, tender kebabs, and bold yet elegant curries, making it a must-visit destination for Indian food in NYC.
Bringing Delhi’s Culinary Heritage to NYC
The concept behind Dilli Dilli is deeply rooted in the spirit of Delhi, a city known for its unmatched hospitality.
(Dilli Dilli)
Dilli Dilli was born out of a passion for sharing the diverse and soulful food culture of Delhi. The team behind the restaurant identified a gap in the global culinary landscape, while Indian cuisine is celebrated worldwide, Delhi’s specific food traditions were often overlooked.
The restaurant bridges two distinct worlds:
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Old Delhi: Known for its chaotic street food scene, historic recipes, and intense, rustic flavors.
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New Delhi: A modern, cosmopolitan city with a focus on innovation and contemporary presentation.
By blending these elements, Dilli Dilli creates a dining experience that is both rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern. It’s a tribute to Delhi’s duality, offering authenticity with a touch of innovation.
Culinary Artistry at Its Best
The success of Dilli Dilli stems from the expertise of its culinary directors, Chef Gaurav Anand and Chef Vipul. Their mission is to balance traditional Indian flavors with modern techniques, creating dishes that surprise and delight diners.
From smoky kebabs reminiscent of Old Delhi’s street vendors to deconstructed desserts inspired by New Delhi’s high-end bistros, every dish tells a story. The restaurant achieves the rare feat of delivering luxury dining at an approachable price point, making it accessible for both curious food explorers and those longing for a taste of home.
Dilli Dilli creates a dining experience that is both rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern.
(Dilli Dilli)
Chef Gaurav Anand on One Year of Dilli Dilli
“The concept behind Dilli Dilli is deeply rooted in the spirit of Delhi, a city known for its unmatched hospitality. When you step into Dilli Dilli, you’re not just entering a restaurant; you’re stepping into our home, where we welcome you with open arms and heartfelt warmth. Celebrating one year in Times Square is a dream come true,” says Chef Anand.
He also expressed gratitude to his team, including Chef Vipul and Abla Atoubi, for their dedication and passion. Together, they’ve created something truly special that has resonated with a diverse audience in NYC.
A Year of Success in NYC’s Competitive Restaurant Scene
Thriving in New York City’s competitive restaurant industry is no small feat, but Dilli Dilli has done it by staying true to its roots. The restaurant has built a loyal following, catering to the Indian diaspora seeking a taste of home and food enthusiasts eager to experience the authentic flavors of Delhi.
Chef Vipul, Abla Atoubi, and Chef Anand celebrating at Dilli Dilli
(Dilli Dilli)
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with diners praising the restaurant’s ability to balance heritage with high-quality service and luxurious presentation. By prioritizing authenticity, Dilli Dilli has secured its place as one of NYC’s top Indian restaurants.
Expansion to Millburn, New Jersey
With the success of the Times Square flagship, Dilli Dilli is now expanding to Millburn, New Jersey, with a new location set to open in Q1 2026. This move allows the team to bring the flavors of Delhi to a broader audience, including families and food lovers in the suburbs.
The new Millburn location will maintain the same commitment to:
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Authenticity: Staying true to Delhi’s culinary heritage.
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Artistry: Offering high-end presentation and modern techniques.
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Accessibility: Keeping prices approachable for diners seeking a luxury experience.
“Expanding to Millburn allows us to bring this unique experience to even more people,” Chef Anand shares. “It’s an opportunity to weave the soul of Delhi into a new community and create a destination for food lovers across the tri-state area.”
Experience the Best Indian Restaurant in NYC
To celebrate its first anniversary and the upcoming Millburn opening, Dilli Dilli invites food lovers to experience its unique take on Delhi cuisine. If you’re looking to indulge in a chaat platter, savor smoky kebabs, or explore bold curries, Dilli Dilli promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Visit the Times Square flagship or stay updated on the Millburn opening by visiting www.dilli-dilli.com or following @DilliDilliNYC on social media.