Karim's

Karim's is a historic and iconic restaurant chain based in Delhi, India, known for its Mughlai cuisine. Established in 1913 by Haji Karimuddin with the aim of serving royal food to the general public, Karim's has become synonymous with the culinary heritage of Old Delhi. The original restaurant is located near the Jama Masjid, in the heart of Old Delhi, and has expanded to several locations across India.

History

Karim's was founded by Haji Karimuddin, who aimed to create a dining space where people could enjoy the lavish dishes of the Mughal emperors. The idea was conceived during the coronation of King George V in Delhi in 1911. Haji Karimuddin started by setting up a small stall in the vicinity of the Jama Masjid, offering just two dishes: aloo gosht (potato and meat curry) and daal (lentil soup). The quality and taste of the food quickly gained popularity, leading to the establishment of the first permanent eatery in 1913.

Cuisine

Karim's specializes in Mughlai cuisine, a style of cooking developed in the Indian subcontinent by the imperial kitchens of the Mughal Empire. It represents a mix of culinary styles and recipes from Central Asia and North India. The menu at Karim's includes a variety of traditional dishes such as kebabs, curries, naan (bread), and biryani. The restaurant is particularly famous for its mutton dishes, including the mutton korma, mutton stew, and the tandoori bakra (roasted goat).

Locations

From its original location near Jama Masjid, Karim's has expanded to multiple outlets across Delhi and other cities in India. Each branch aims to maintain the quality and authenticity of the food that made the original restaurant famous.

Cultural Significance

Karim's is not just a restaurant; it is a part of Delhi's cultural and historical heritage. It has been featured in numerous travel and culinary guides as a must-visit place for those wanting to experience the traditional flavors of Mughal cuisine. The restaurant has also been a meeting place for food enthusiasts, historians, and tourists from around the world.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many historic establishments, Karim's has faced its share of challenges and controversies, including issues related to food safety and hygiene. However, the management has taken steps to address these concerns and continues to serve a large and loyal customer base.

In Popular Culture

Karim's has been featured in various documentaries, travel shows, and food blogs, highlighting its rich history and contribution to India's culinary landscape. It has also been mentioned in several books and articles discussing Delhi's food culture.

See Also

• Mughlai cuisine
• Old Delhi
• Jama Masjid
• Indian cuisine