The story
Tucked away in the bustling streets of Old Delhi, Ashok Mit Dhaba is a legendary, generations-old institution that rewards early risers. This high-energy, no-frills spot operates for only two to three hours during lunch, with popular dishes frequently selling out in as little as thirty minutes. It remains an essential destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the city’s storied culinary heritage.
The dhaba’s reputation is built on its mastery of rich, traditional meat curries cooked in ghee with a blend of 16 spices. Food creator Mark Wiens, who considers these some of the "greatest meat curries I've ever had," specifically recommends the chicken curry, mutton chops, and chicken biryani. Whether you are a local or a traveler, this hole-in-the-wall gem offers an unforgettable look at the very best of Indian street food.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review. First reviewed 2026.
Most-loved dishes
AI summary of what 3 dish mentions say about the food
Reviewers rave about Ashok Mit Dhaba’s legendary mutton chops, praising their smoky, fall-off-the-bone tenderness. The overall vibe is pure, unpretentious Punjabi comfort, served with a side of rustic charm.
“The mutton chops are totally coated in masala. The fat is so tender, absorbed with all that sauce and ghee. Taking a bite was a pivotal moment in my life — the meat just slides off the bone, you don't even need teeth. It's like mutton butter. The flavor of ginger, coriander, black cardamom, long pepper — it's a harmony of fat, meat, and masala. Pure overjoy and happiness.”
What creators say
1 creator has covered Ashok Mit Dhaba. Most active: Mark Wiens
A legendary hole-in-the-wall serving some of the greatest curries in Delhi, with a rich history and incredible hospitality.
Dishes mentioned
Chicken Curry
This chicken curry is cooked in ghee with 16 different spices. The gravy is rich and thick, you can feel the spices on your tongue held together by the ghee. The flavor goes to the bone — cardamom, chilies, cumin, pepper. It's spicy, and everyone around is sweating. I'd say it's one of the greatest chicken curries I've ever had. Absolutely phenomenal.
Mutton Chops
The mutton chops are totally coated in masala. The fat is so tender, absorbed with all that sauce and ghee. Taking a bite was a pivotal moment in my life — the meat just slides off the bone, you don't even need teeth. It's like mutton butter. The flavor of ginger, coriander, black cardamom, long pepper — it's a harmony of fat, meat, and masala. Pure overjoy and happiness.
Chicken Biryani
This biryani is more like a spiced rice biryani made to carry the chicken curry gravy. They reheat it over coals, melting the ghee even more. There's a piece of chicken inside. It's simple but perfect — you can't go wrong.
