We love Delhi’s moderately fast-paced life and its chirpiness; but sometimes all we need is a quiet, cosy corner to relax, reflect or just while away time far from all theclamour. And by this we don’t mean locking ourselves up in a room to avoid the world. What we mean is that we’d like to spend some evenings in corners of the city that serve as stellar options for a peaceful time as we watch the world pass by. Let’s explore the pretty, more relaxed side of Delhi with these ten not-so-crowded places.
ROSE CAFÉ, Saket
Rose Café is a pretty little space with girly, pastel interiors that are pleasing to the eye. The place offers indoor as well as outdoor seating arrangements with small artefacts and English elements carefully cluttered all around the café. The menu is a foodie’s delight with various cuisines (Italian, Mediterranean, Continental and Lebanese) on offer. Visit with friends or go solo to get some work done while you treat your mind and tummy.
BOHEME, Vasant Vihar
Boheme did break a lot of hearts when they shut shop in HauzKhas Village. For those who sulked at its disappearance, Boheme is back with its quintessential artsy vibes in a quiet corner of VasantVihar. The new space is adorned with classy meets thrift store decor and has a terrace that is made to look like your own personal garden. Undoubtedly, Boheme is a great option for a quiet, day visit or a mellow evening with some soulful music. To complete the wonderful experience, there’s good food and wi-fi too!
CAFE LOTA, Pragati Maidan
Café Lota is a hidden gem in Delhi’s crowded PragatiMaidan. Essentially Indian, the café is located in the National Crafts Museum and serves innovative food. This refreshing space is like none other in the city, exuding the vibes of a simple yet sophisticated village. If you are lucky, you can catch a gentleman playing old melodies on a flute and just enjoy the positivity that the ambience infuses. Don’t forget to try their famous Filter Kappi when you visit.
DIGGIN, AnandLok
Situated right opposite Gargi College, Diggin is the place for a fuss-free meal or coffee. The interiors are as quirky as the exteriors with bare-bricked walls that are lit-up by many strings of fairy lights once the sun sets. The food is decent with big portions and the ambience is a likeable change from bustling markets. Enjoy the winter sun while you relax in the balcony with good vibes and many potted plants to give you a sense of happiness.
COAST CAFÉ AT OGAAN, HauzKhas Village
One of the better known gems of the city, Coast Café is an added feather in the hat of brand Ogaan. Not much is spoken of its green and open balconies that are uncommon in other eateries around Delhi’s favourite village. The place is a work of art with woodwork that demands appreciation and paintings that were commissioned especially for the place, making the ambience sophisticated yet cosy. Its coastal food will leave you yearning for more as it is probably the best in the city. If you are looking for a clutter-free ambience to spend a relaxed afternoon and indulge in some delectable food, visit Coast Café and you will not be disappointed.
ANOTHER FINE DAY, Gurgaon
Finding a friendly place that fulfils your need for space is a mammoth task in the forever bustling city of Gurgaon. And Another Fine day – Reading Room and Café was born just to save us from the daunting task. Relaxed setting, books to borrow, satiable food and the welcoming vibes that understand a reader/solo traveller’s heart are the wonderful things that make up this cafe. Whether to read an interesting book or have a meaningful conversation, this place will have you coming back for more.
