New Delhi is a beautiful and intense combination of old and new. Ornate palaces and tombs from a bygone era sit next to the bustling business city of today. And history isn’t the only asset of India’s second largest city – a thriving arts and culture scene, an abundance of delicious cuisine and the stunning scenery all come together to make this a destination with never-ending possibilities.
Take a step back from the hustle and bustle to uncover some of New Delhi’s hidden gems, local favourites and cultural hideaways.
Whether you’re looking to shake the jet lag, get out of the office or just explore what this colourful, rich city has to offer, check out these local insider spots on your next business trip.
Socialise
Grammar Room
After an afternoon of presentations, settle into this lush, green and tropically inspired locale. Known for its tasty food and delicious drinks, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some downtime and take in a laid-back and upscale ambience. Don’t stress if you’ve skipped breakfast because of a morning meeting because they serve it all-day here. The Grammar Room’s fluffy pancakes make for a delicious treat any time of day.
Café Dori
Work up an appetite sifting through crafted leather goods on sale at Nappa Dori before trying some delectable European-inspired snacks at the quaint Café Dori. Looking to catch up on emails? Enjoy the cosy working space while you snack on the popular pumpkin risotto.
Wildfire at Crowne Plaza Gurgaon
Save your appetite for dinner and indulge in an authentic Brazilian meal at Crowne Plaza Gurgaon’s restaurant Wildfire. Specialising in Churrasco, a South American-style of cooking skewered meat over charcoal fire, it is the only restaurant of its kind in India. Enjoy a lively meal, and a good dose of Brazilian hospitality, as the resident chef carves meat, seafood and vegetarian delicacies directly onto your plate.
Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters
At the half-café, half-casual workspace Blue Tokai you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better coffee to start your morning. They have a variety of handpicked, single-estate, Indian specialty coffees on offer as well as friendly baristas to give advice and provide the perfect brewing tips. With seven locations across New Delhi, a good cup of coffee is never far away.
Get Energised
Pool at Crowne Plaza Gurgaon
Take a breather from your busy day and invest some time in yourself. Squeeze in a refreshing dip at the hotel pool and emerge ready to take on the world.
Body Zone at Crowne Plaza Gurgaon
Need to work out some knots? With a steam bath, masseuses, sauna facilities, as well as a wide range of treatments, Body Zone provides the ultimate relaxation space. Book a session of foot or neck reflexology or a soothing body wrap to invigorate both mind and body.
Be Inspired
Claymen Gallery & Store
This unassuming store in Dhan Mill has an amazing collection of clay works by local artist Aman Khanna. The minimalist clay pieces on sale at this store and working studio are described as both ‘functional and dysfunctional’. This means you’ll find anything from common homewares with a twist to a unique new conversation piece to bring home.
Odd Bird Theatre & Foundation
Have a meeting-free afternoon? Catch a local play, learn a new craft or admire the performances at Odd Bird Theatre. This spot is the go-to destination for a fun, inviting and decidedly eclectic experience. The cosy space offers audiences an intimate setting of watching performances alongside a warm cup of chai.
Piano Man Jazz Club
Get ready to let down your hair at Piano Man Jazz Club, a prohibition-style jazz bar. This buzzing hotspot oozes style and offers sumptuous dinners to enjoy along with the tunes. The entire ambience – from the wooden floors to the piano on stage – transports guests back in time. The unique cocktails and lively atmosphere make the Piano Man Jazz Club a whole package.
Humayun’s Tomb
The magnificently-preserved, UNESCO Heritage-listed Humayun’s Tomb is a throwback to a different time. This symbol of opulence and grandeur, and the burial site of the Mughal Empire’s second emperor, is actually the inspiration behind the famous Taj Mahal. Take a quiet and cool morning stroll around the beautiful gardens to discover a wonderful piece of history.
Dilli Haat
Indulge your senses in the vibrant colours and myriad fragrances in this open-air bazaar. Here, sellers peddle handicrafts, shoes, jewellery and snacks from every far-flung corner of India. Be sure to hone your bargaining skills as haggling is the language of Dilli Haat.
Raw Mango
Partake in some much-needed retail therapy at Raw Mango. Using contemporary textiles and traditional techniques, the quintessential Indian garment is reimagined. A fabulous gift for you or a loved one, a Raw Mango sari is a unique keepsake. The shop prides itself on its hand-loomed garments, a process once considered a lost art, and on employing a large community of local craftspeople.
Have some extra time? Extend your trip through to the weekend and explore beyond the city. Into history? Check out Neemrana Fort for a beautifully preserved piece of the past. Want to see more of what India’s nature has to offer? Head north for a safari at the Jim Corbett National Park to try and catch a glimpse of tigers and elephants.
