Treat your taste buds to authentic Lohri and Makar Sankranti feasts in Delhi-NCR

The temperatures may have plummeted in northern India, but the excitement levels are at an all-time high at this time of the year. That’s because the much-awaited season of Lohri and Makar Sankranti is finally here! The annual harvest festivals, celebrated on January 13 and January 14 respectively, are symbolic of the culmination of the winter season and herald the arrival of spring. 

There are several legends associated with Lohri – some say that the name has been derived from the word ‘loh’, meaning warmth and light. Others believe that the festival revolves around a bandit called Dulla Bhatti, who would rescue young girls enslaved in Mughal courts. Interestingly, there are quite a few songs that mention him too.

On the other hand, Makar Sankranti is celebrated on the day when Lord Surya is believed to have visited his son Shani, signifying a reconciliation between the duo. 

While it’s fascinating to learn about lore, there is no greater joy than getting together with your loved ones and feasting on some of the choicest delicacies like Sarson ka Saag, Makki ki Roti, and Gajak. 

If you’re in Delhi-NCR, get set to spoil yourself silly with some special Lohri and Makar Sankranti menus curated by your favourite restaurants. 

Dhaba, The Claridges

This Lohri, dive deep into the flavours of Punjab by relishing a variety of non-vegetarian appetizers like Sarson wale Tandoori Jheenge, Kalonji Pudiney wali Tandoori Macchi, Meatwala Boti Kebab, Adraki Meat Chaap, Bharwein Murgh Di Tangri, and Bhatti da Murgh, alongside vegetarian options like Bhuttey Methi ki Seekh, Bharwein Khumb, and Kali Mirch te Chutney Wala Paneer Tikka.

The main course is equally exciting with offerings like Makhan wali Kaali Dal, Sarson da Saag, and Chupdi Roti Gheeyo Di. Salivating, aren’t we? End the meal with favourites like Gajar ka Halwa and Sund Makhane di Panjiri. The special menu has been curated by Chefs Mahavir Singh and Datta Ram. 

Date: January 6-15

Time: 12.30 pm–2.45 pm | 7 pm–11.30 pm

Farmer’s Basket, Pullman New Delhi Aerocity | Food Exchange, Novotel New Delhi Aerocity 

This winter, Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity are hosting an exclusive dinner for Lohri that includes crowd pullers like Sarson ka Saag and Makki ki Roti laden with white butter, and served with a side of jaggery. It doesn’t end there — patrons can also bite into a variety of Gajaks and soak in the sweetness of Gajar ka Halwa that’s sure to keep their tummies and hearts warm! 

Date: January 13

Time: 7 pm onwards

Tamra, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi

When in Delhi, there’s no better stop than Tamra, the award-winning international cuisine restaurant at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. For Lohri, they have a special regional buffet counter that will serve some of the most delectable dishes, including Amritsari Choley Kulchey, Amritsari Macchi, Aloo Wadiyan, Mutton Rara, and Beera Chicken. Down it with some fruity mocktails or cocktails from their beverage menu – we promise you won’t be disappointed. 

Date: Until January 14

Time: 12.30 pm–3.30 pm | 7 pm–11.45 pm

Sana-di-ge Delhi

One of the most popular coastal food destinations in Delhi – Sana-di-ge – has put together a special Makar Sankranti thali, which includes interesting fare like Upperi (banana chips), Sharkara Upperi (sweet banana chips), Naranga Achar (lemon pickle), and Suran Kadle Sukka (yam and black chickpeas cooked in grated coconut and Mangalorean ground spices). Do not miss out on mouth-watering dishes like Avial (a combination of local vegetables tossed in a coconut paste), Aloo Vatana Gassi (green peas and potatoes cooked in Mangalorean whole spice mix and coconut milk) and Paruppu Curry (lentil curry with coconut), among other offerings. 

The best way to end this sumptuous meal is with Chana Dal Payasam (jaggery-sweetened cow’s milk and coconut milk with cooked chana dal) and Ellu Laddu. 

Date: January 14

Time: 12 pm–3.30 pm

Dhansoo Cafe, Delhi and Gurgaon 

Just like its name, Dhansoo Cafe offers a ‘dhansoo’ menu that has been specially curated by Chef Ashish Singh for Lohri and Makar Sankranti. Indulge in traditional foods like Til ke Tar, Shakarkandi Chaat, Dal Khichdi, Chhena Poda, Puran Poli, Sarson Ka Saag with Makki Ki Roti, and much more. Don’t blame us if you can’t stop yourself from having extra helpings – after all, the feast is worth it!

Date: January 12-15 

Time: 12 pm-midnight 

Punjabi by Nature, Delhi-NCR 

If you love Punjabi fare, you would have certainly made a stop at Punjabi by Nature. Of course, Lohri is another excuse to dig into their delicious food. Satiate your appetite for an authentic festive meal by indulging in their unique Stuffed Khamiri Kulcha with green peas, feta and butter chicken filling. Don’t leave without sampling their iconic signature preparations – Kastoori Kebab, Dahi ke Kebab, Rara Gosht, and Dal PBN. Pair your meals with their handcrafted cocktails that incorporate a desi touch! Do try the Liptan Di Chah that is a blend of vodka, cardamom masala tea, orange, and spice bitters.

Date: All year round

Time: 11 am-11.30 pm

The Chatter House, Delhi-NCR 

The Chatter House is all set to mark Lohri with innovative delicacies that are inspired by authentic Punjabi flavours. Take your pick from their all-time favourites like Blue Cheese Naan with Dal Makhni Shots, Bhut Jolokia Chicken Wings, Butter Chicken Spring Roll, and Pindi Chole. So, get together with your friends and family to enjoy a delicious meal like no other. 

Date: All year round

Time: 12 pm-1 am

India Habitat Centre 

If you’re a Delhi resident, India Habitat Centre will always occupy a special spot in your heart. The good news is they are organising a special Lohri event that is packed with good music and of course, great food. Come by and enjoy Macchi Amritsari Tikka, Mattar Kulcha, Palak ke Kebab, Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag, Kathal Biryani, and Gajar ka Halwa. As they say, celebrate the festivity in true Dilli style. 

Date: January 13

Time: 7 pm onwards