Naivedyam

Frommer's Review

Delhi has five branches of this fantastic, cramped, and always busy little South Indian restaurant; the one in Hauz Khas is the original, atmospherically decorated with mirror-framed Tanjore paintings and pillars that have been beautifully carved and embossed. Not that you'll notice this; you'll be too busy checking out the crowd (if it's full, just wait until a table opens up). You start your meal with a spicy peppery lentil soup, called rasam, which is drunk as a curative and is something of an acquired taste. Thalis, or multicourse platters, are served at meal times, and are a good way to sample a variety of tastes from the South. Alternatively, you can choose from a whole range of dosas (rice and lentil flour pancake); the variety can be quite intimidating, so ask the waiter for some advice -- be warned that dosas easily become addictive. On the side you'll be served chutney made from ground coconut and green chilies, and sambar, a souplike concoction of lentils, tamarind, and vegetables. Tea and coffee are served in the style typical of the South, but there's no alcohol. You'll recognize the restaurant by the stone Nandi bull statue that faces the front entrance.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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