Dhaba Estd. 1986 in Nehru Place serves nostalgic North Indian favorites with fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a calm, inviting ambience
By Seema Dhawan Pics by Aarsh
Stepping into Dhaba Estd. 1986 in Nehru Place feels like stepping into a memory, only brighter, more deliberate, and gently modern. Colourful walls catch the eye without overwhelming, retro-Bollywood accents add a playful touch, and cushioned seating encourages pause. There’s a quiet hum in the air—the kind of liveliness that signals a space designed for comfort and connection, bridging the charm of a roadside dhaba with the ease of an urban setting.
Even before the meal begins, a conversation with Ankur Khanna, the franchise owner, offers a glimpse into the philosophy behind the restaurant. Freshness, consistency, and attentive care for every guest form the foundation of the experience. That ethos is visible in every detail: the calm, composed staff, the thoughtful pacing of service, and the approachable presence of Devendra, the manager, who checks in with subtle attentiveness, making the experience feel personal without ever intruding.
Lunch unfolds in a natural, unhurried rhythm. The Anarkali and Rangeela beverages bring brightness to the start, lively yet refreshing. Starters follow, balancing nostalgia with thoughtful composition: the Tokri Chaat layers crisp textures with tangy, subtle flavours, while the Chilli Cheese delivers indulgent comfort, familiar and satisfying without pretense.
The mains reveal the heart of the menu:
- Dhaba Daal — slow-cooked, layered with warmth and depth
- Paneer Makhan Maar Ke — rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced
- Lahsun Palak — aromatic, with a gentle, lingering punch
- Kanastri Baingan Ka Bharta — smoky, tender, and quietly comforting
Each dish carries freshness and thoughtful execution. The flavours are consistent and balanced, rooted in North Indian tradition yet light enough to keep the meal approachable. There is a subtle rhythm to every bite, a reflection of a kitchen that honours heritage without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Dessert brings a gentle close to the meal. The Firni is silky, its sweetness restrained, while the Rasmalai offers a soft richness that complements rather than competes with what came before. Together, they provide a quiet, reflective finish—measured, comforting, and entirely satisfying.
By the end of the afternoon, it becomes clear that the experience is about more than food. It is shaped by attentiveness, thoughtful pacing, and warmth that lingers long after the table is cleared. Dhaba Estd. 1986 doesn’t need to announce itself. It invites, comforts, and leaves an impression that quietly stays with you. Nostalgia, warmth, and effortless charm converge to make a simple lunch quietly exceptional.
