I had heard about Karims long long ago, but never got a chance to go there, though I have been to Delhi a couple of times the past few years. I guess it was because most of my work or leisure was in New Delhi, and I just never found the time or inclination to go till Old Delhi and visit Karims. Now I regret that badly, specially after having a wonderful first experience in Karims!
I reached Old Delhi station and hired a rickety cycle rickshaw around 9pm to reach Juma Masjid Gate no. 1, opposite which is the famous Karims’. The bumpy ride courtesy the daredevil cycle rider took me through dark lanes, alleys and near-misses with dogs, humans and lamp-posts, and I had no option but to hug my backpack tight fearing for the worst, but determined to reach no matter what!
For the people who havent been here yet, this place is an amazing, jam packed area filled with everything and anything. You have expensive cars with the music turned on and glasses rolled down trying to seem cool, you have cycle rickshaws by the dozen waiting to pull you in, there are people, cows and dogs all over the place jostling for space amidst all the filth, and loud music blares out even as the Muezzin of the famous Jama Masjid gets ready to sound the Azan, the call for prayer. Its like a carnival!
I make my way to Karims and find a place for myself on the same table as two Sardarjis. We are all ready to order, but the only problem is I dont know what to order! Agreed that I have heard about Karims, but I really dont know whts the best they have on offer! To my rescue come the two helpful Sardarjis, and they take over the whole show. They order Badam Pasanda Mutton for me, and Seekh Kebabs along with rotis, and I tell them that I’m not a heavy eater. Nevertheless, the food comes, and before I could say KARIMS, it had vanished into my tummy. It was just SO delicious! I cannot describe the Kebabs..they were the most juiciest and tender kebabs I have ever eaten. To top it all off, my friends ordered ’’Firni’’ as well, and that sealed the deal.
I was almost tempted to ask the waiter if they had a vacant room for me to sleep in for a while :-)