Seven years ago, Daryaganj opened its doors in Aerocity with a simple idea; to bring back the kind of North Indian food people remembered growing up with. The kind that didn’t try too hard but was long remembered after a meal. Today, the brand finds itself back where it started, but with something bigger in mind.
Today, Daryaganj Restaurants expands in Aerocity with its second outlet in the area, signalling a bold new phase for the brand.
The Brand has launched Daryaganj Gold at GMR Square, Aerocity – its most elevated format yet, and the first of its kind in India. Interestingly, the concept was first introduced earlier this year in Bangkok, but bringing it to Delhi feels more like a homecoming.
It builds on everything the brand is known for, but extends the experience a little further. The space itself is larger, with over 150 seating capacity, but it’s not just about size. It’s about creating a place where food, atmosphere, and a bit of nostalgia come together more thoughtfully.
At the heart of the experience is Daryaganj’s Classics Menu, cherished by guests for years. Alongside, there is a specially curated Daryaganj Gold Menu that has been introduced exclusively for the Gold outlet that reimagines these familiar flavours with thoughtful innovation while preserving their original soul.
The experience also expands into a dedicated Chaat selection, celebrating India’s beloved street flavours with a refined Daryaganj touch. From creations such as Dahi Bhalla Bingsu, Gol Gappa Trio and Mushroom Ram Ladoo to signature highlights including the 24 Karat Mutton Biryani, Daryaganj Daulat Ki Chaat and India Gate Avocado Bhel Puri, the menu brings together nostalgia, craftsmanship and contemporary expression.
The menu revisits recipes that trace back to 1947, including Jelly Fruit Cream Custard and Nargasi Kofta, originally served by Kundan Lal Jaggi, reintroducing guests to flavours that have stood the test of time.
This direction is shaped by Chef Gaurav Pandey, who brings over 15 years of culinary experience, having started his journey at Indian Accent and going on to work across luxury hotels and acclaimed restaurants. The brand’s core Daryaganj classics continue to be guided by Chef Deep Chand Dobriyal, who has been instrumental in shaping and preserving the flavours that define the restaurant today.
One of the key highlights is the Five Senses Curries, available with mutton and chicken, designed to be experienced as much as eaten. The slow-cooked curry, prepared with onions, tomatoes, and whole spices, unfolds in stages: the gentle whistle of the cooker, the moment it is opened, the aroma that follows, and finally, the first bite. The tenderness of the meat, the depth of the gravy, and a sense of familiarity come together in a way that feels both comforting and immersive. Much of this process plays out in the open kitchen, making it part of the dining experience.
The beverage menu carries forward the same philosophy, drawing inspiration from retro flavour memories while reimagining them for today’s palate.
What truly elevates the experience is the thoughtful way it has been enhanced for guests.A live tawa and chaat section recreates the energy of Indian street food, complemented by Chef Theatre Nights, offering immersive chef-led dining experiences that invite guests to engage more closely with the chefs and the craft behind every dish.
Evenings at Daryaganj Gold take on a softer, more relaxed tone, with Daryaganj Studio Nights bringing a mix of experiences. At times, it features curated renditions of classic tracks by newer artists, and at others, it comes alive with live, unplugged performances that add to the overall mood of the space.
The space also makes room for intimate moments. Alongside the main dining area, there are private dining rooms for smaller groups like 8, 12 and 20 guests, whether it’s a family gathering, a professional milestone or just a more personal celebration.
Speaking about the launch, Amit Bagga, Co-Founder and CEO of Daryaganj Restaurants, said, “This is truly a full-circle moment for us. Seven years ago, around this time, we opened our very first Daryaganj restaurant here at Aerocity. With Daryaganj Gold now at GMR Square, Aerocity, we return with a much bigger, more elevated and immersive experience. Over the years, the response from guests here only kept growing. There were days when we had to turn people away, even on weekdays, and we consistently heard feedback asking for more space. Daryaganj Gold is our answer to that continued demand, allowing us to welcome more guests while presenting the brand at a grander scale.”
The name Gold carries its own significance. It is a tribute to Swaran Jaggi, wife of Kundan Lal Jaggi, whose culinary legacy continues to inspire much of what Daryaganj serves today, including its iconic Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. “Swaran” translates to gold, and has been part of the brand’s identity from the very beginning.
At its core, not much has changed. Daryaganj still draws from recipes that go back to 1947, leaning on flavours that don’t need reinventing. What Daryaganj Gold does is build around that foundation, adding layers to the experience without losing the simplicity that made people return in the first place. With this format, the brand plans to remain intentional, limiting Daryaganj Gold to just one outlet per city in key markets.
Through Daryaganj Gold, the brand takes a step towards defining a gold standard for North Indian cuisine, giving it a platform it truly deserves.
