Old Famous Jalebi Wala Chandni Chowk

Jalebi from Chandni Chowk? Yeah, Jalebi is one of the oldest desserts India has and obviously people are very fond of it. This shop is one of the most famous Jalebi shops in Old Delhi and ahead in India. Every winter, people flock to Chandni Chowk for its street foods. One of our favorites is the old famous jalebi wala.

About Old famous Jalebi wala in Chandni Chowk Old Delhi

The shop started anytime near 1905. The recipe is exclusively made and kept secret from other members of the family. Jalebis are cooked in Desi ghee and even they have their own buffaloes to take desi ghee. They use khand in their Jalebis which is a pure form of sugar, instead of ordinary sugar. The Jalebis are very soft, even an old man can eat them easily. There is no sitting in the shop, one has to stand and eat.

What to try at Old Famous Jalebi Wala?

Try Desi Ghee Jalebi, Paneer Jalebi, Matar Samosa, Jalebi Rabri, Crunchy Jalebi, Aloo Samosa, Lassi

What is Jalebi?

Jalebi is a delicacy that originated in the North-Western part of India. Also known as zeera or zeer halwa, this delicacy consists of two parts: a crispy fried outer shell and soft, sweet, and syrupy liquid on the inside. It comes from the word “zalabia”, a name derived from Persian. The dish was introduced in India by the Mughals and is a popular dish in South Asia, especially in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India. Jalebis are two deep-fried essentially flour-based circular coils. It is made of maida (all-purpose flour) and the other of besan (chickpea flour). A sweet syrup or sugar is then drizzled over the chunks._x000D_

What is Rabri?

Rabri is a type of Indian Confectionery. It is typically prepared by boiling concentrated sweetened milk over low heat for several hours until it thickens and darkens to a rich caramel color. This version of rabri was invented many years ago in the streets near the famous Chandni Chowk district in Old Delhi, India.

About Chandni Chowk Location

Chandni Chowk is an old market in the walled city of Delhi, India. Located near Delhi Gate next to the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, this historical market is at the heart of Delhi and has been a center for trade and commerce in Delhi since its inception in 1650. We will advise you visit to the shop by local transport, the market is crowded most of the time.

A Century-Old Legacy of Sweetness in Chandni Chowk

In the bustling heart of Chandni Chowk, where history and culture collide with the vibrant chaos of modern-day Delhi, lies a gem that has stood the test of time — Old Famous Jalebi Wala. Known for its iconic, gooey, and syrup-soaked jalebis, this establishment is more than just a sweet shop; it’s a landmark steeped in tradition, flavor, and the nostalgia of generations.

A Legacy of Sweetness Spanning Over a Century

Old Famous Jalebi Wala is not just any sweet shop; it’s an institution. Established in 1884 by Late Sh. Nemchand Jain, this quaint shop has been serving its signature jalebis for over a hundred years. Unlike the typical thin, crispy jalebis found elsewhere, the jalebis here are thick, hefty, and packed with flavor. They’re fried to a golden brown in pure desi ghee and then soaked in sugar syrup, resulting in a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, almost melt-in-the-mouth experience on the inside.

The Secret Recipe Behind the Magic

The recipe behind Old Famous Jalebi Wala’s legendary jalebis has been passed down through generations. It’s said that the Jain family guards this recipe closely, ensuring that each batch maintains the authentic taste that has drawn crowds for over a century. Every morning, the dough is carefully prepared with precision, taking into account the right mix of ingredients and fermentation time, which gives the jalebis their unique texture and flavor.

Once prepared, the dough is piped directly into the hot ghee, creating thick, coiled shapes that are fried to perfection. The crispy jalebis are then dunked in a sweet syrup made with saffron and other secret spices, infusing them with an intense sweetness that makes every bite unforgettable.

Not Just Jalebis – A Full Flavor Experience

While the jalebis are the main attraction, Old Famous Jalebi Wala also serves a variety of other delicious treats. The samosas here, filled with spiced potatoes and deep-fried to a perfect golden brown, offer a savory contrast to the sweet jalebis. For a complete taste experience, locals recommend pairing your jalebis with rabri — a creamy, thickened milk dessert with subtle cardamom and saffron flavors. The combination of hot jalebi with cold rabri creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that’s utterly indulgent.

A Hub of Culture and Tradition in Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk, with its narrow lanes, vibrant bazaars, and historic landmarks, provides the perfect backdrop for Old Famous Jalebi Wala. Visiting this iconic sweet shop is an experience that goes beyond just food. You’re stepping into a piece of history, a relic of old Delhi that has witnessed the city’s transformation over the decades.

As you approach the shop, you’re greeted by the tempting aroma of frying jalebis mingling with the fragrant spices from neighboring food stalls. The shop itself has retained its old-world charm, with minimalistic décor and vintage signage, transporting you back to a simpler time.

The Best Time to Visit

Old Famous Jalebi Wala is open from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM, and it sees the most crowds during the late mornings and evenings. Early mornings are ideal if you want to avoid the rush and enjoy a peaceful moment with your jalebi. Tuesdays and Fridays can be especially busy, as these days hold religious significance for many locals who come to Chandni Chowk to visit nearby temples.

Celebrating Festivals with Jalebis

During festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Holi, Old Famous Jalebi Wala is a must-visit spot. The shop prepares large batches of jalebis to meet the demand of festival-goers who believe that sweets, particularly jalebis, are an essential part of celebrating joyous occasions. On these days, the shop is decorated with festive elements, and the atmosphere is charged with the excitement of celebration, with locals and tourists alike flocking to get their hands on this traditional sweet.

How to Get There

Old Famous Jalebi Wala is conveniently located in the heart of Chandni Chowk, just a short walk from the Chandni Chowk metro station. The area is well-connected by various forms of public transport, including auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws, which can drop you right at the shop’s doorstep. It’s close to other popular landmarks such as the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, making it easy to include in a day of exploring Old Delhi.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Brace for Crowds: Chandni Chowk is one of Delhi’s busiest areas, and Old Famous Jalebi Wala is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during festivals. Be prepared for a lively, bustling environment.
2. Cash Payments: The shop primarily accepts cash, so carry enough with you, as ATM services may not be conveniently nearby.
3. Taste the Rabri-Jalebi Combo: While it’s tempting to order just the jalebis, don’t miss the chance to try them with rabri. The contrasting flavors elevate the entire experience.
4. Take a Walk Around: After indulging in sweets, take a leisurely walk around Chandni Chowk. The area is famous for its shopping and other street food options, offering a full sensory experience.

A Symbol of Old Delhi’s Culinary Heritage

Old Famous Jalebi Wala isn’t just a place to enjoy sweets; it’s a symbol of Delhi’s culinary heritage. The shop has retained its authenticity and quality through decades of change, preserving a slice of tradition that allows people to reconnect with the flavors of old Delhi. For many locals, a visit to this shop is a cherished ritual, a moment to savor memories from their childhood or introduce a new generation to the magic of these legendary jalebis.

A Must-Visit for Food Enthusiasts and Cultural Explorers

For those who appreciate culinary history, traditional recipes, and a taste of authentic Indian flavors, Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk is an unmissable stop. It’s more than a sweet shop; it’s a journey through time, flavors, and culture. The experience of biting into a warm, syrupy jalebi while standing in the midst of Chandni Chowk’s chaos is something that lingers in your memory long after your visit.

So, whether you’re a Delhi local or a tourist exploring the city, make sure to visit Old Famous Jalebi Wala. Let the flavors take you back in time and savor the legacy of one of Delhi’s most beloved culinary treasures.