Global celebrities like Bill and Hillary Clinton and Bruce Springsteen have all been spotted at Bukhara. Ranked as one of New Delhi’s top (and priciest) restaurants since 1977, the legendary spot—now located at the ITC Maurya hotel—celebrates India’s rugged North West Frontier region in both its décor and menu. Though the faux-rustic design seems a bit like that of a theme restaurant (think cracked stone walls, low seating, lots of wood beams and clay pots), the cuisine is legit. So legit, in fact, that there’s no cutlery, so guests eat with their hands. (You are issued an apron for protection.) The dishes of the Frontier region tend towards the warm, hearty, and comforting, crafted using tandoor clay ovens and wood fires, so expect staples like marinated kebabs, rich lentils, fluffy bread, and lots of meat; the signature Sikandri Raan mutton leg, burrah (lamb) kebabs, and off-the-menu Chicken Khurchan are particular favorites, along with overflowing shareable platters. Reservations are recommended as the place does gets packed.
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Elegant, Cutlery-Free Cuisine at Bukhara
Bukhara is an icon in Delhi. The award-winning restaurant is almost always full, as the guests are always full on kabobs and giant naans (flatbread). Bukhara’s specialty is tandoor-cooked cuisine prepared in a traditional clay oven. Try the Sikandari Raan (marinated whole leg of spring lamb) and Murgh Malai Kebab. Celebrity sightings are common and diners have included heads of states, Bollywood stars, presidents, and food industry aficionados. Come hungry and with clean hands - Bukhara is cutlery-free.
