Cooking Demo + Lunch/Dinner and interaction with an Indian family @ Chez Anjali

Introduction

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Indian home cooking combined with a glimpse into local life, this Cooking Demo + Lunch/Dinner with an Indian family at Chez Anjali in New Delhi offers just that. It’s a chance to step away from busy tourist spots and really connect with a local family while learning how to make some of India’s most beloved dishes.

What we love about this experience is its personal touch—a private setting that allows for genuine interaction, the chance to learn traditional recipes directly from an Indian family, and the opportunity to enjoy a freshly prepared, home-cooked meal. Plus, the inclusion of complimentary drinks and masala chai adds a cozy, hospitable vibe. A potential downside might be the climb on stairs, as the venue is located on the second floor, which could be inconvenient for some travelers with mobility issues.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers wanting an authentic cultural experience, and those who enjoy small, intimate settings. If you’re looking to connect with locals beyond tourist attractions and take home a few Indian cooking secrets, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Home-Cooked Experience: Enjoy a genuine Indian meal prepared by a local family.
• Personalized Interaction: You learn directly from your host in a family setting, enhancing cultural insights.
• Hands-On Learning: Master traditional Northern Indian dishes like paneer masala and chicken tandoori.
• Flexible Meal Options: Choose between a lunch or dinner during the 3-hour experience.
• Inclusive Drinks: Complimentary fresh drinks and masala tea are included, with wine, beer, or liquor available for purchase.
• Convenient Location: Situated in Central Delhi, close to public transportation, though it requires climbing stairs.

Detailed Review of the Experience

What to Expect at the Beginning

The experience kicks off at Chez Anjali, located in the heart of Central Delhi, specifically at O-14 Prasad Nagar. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a traditional Indian welcome, featuring floral garlands and a tikka—small touches that instantly make you feel part of the family. This warm reception sets a friendly tone for the hours ahead.

While the venue is on the second floor and involves climbing stairs, many reviewers have noted the effort is worthwhile for the genuine, homely atmosphere. The host, who appears to be a dedicated and passionate cook, guides you through the process, sharing stories and tips along the way.

The Cooking Session Itself

During the roughly three-hour workshop, you’ll dive into making a flavorful menu that covers popular Northern Indian dishes. Expect to learn how to prepare paneer masala—a vegetarian favorite with a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce—and chicken tandoori, which is marinated to perfection and cooked in a traditional tandoor or oven.

What reviewers appreciated is how hands-on this session is, yet relaxed enough for everyone to follow along, regardless of cooking experience. The guide is clearly knowledgeable, offering insights into ingredient choices and cooking techniques that you can replicate at home. As Johanna from her review mentions, “We learned the secrets of Indian cuisine,” making this a practical skill-building experience.

The Meal and Interaction

Once the cooking is complete, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is served in a warm, family-style setting, emphasizing the welcoming nature of Indian hospitality. You’ll be encouraged to sample multiple dishes, complemented by fresh drinks and masala chai, which are included in the price.

Many guests have noted the authenticity of the meal, praising the balance of flavors and the care that went into each dish. The host often shares stories about the recipes and Indian culinary traditions, making the meal both a taste adventure and a cultural exchange. As one reviewer put it, “So much fun and I learned a lot. It’s such a unique experience with lovely people.”

Value and Additional Features

At $35 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the personalized attention, home-cooked meal, and culture. The small group size or private setting enhances the overall experience, allowing for meaningful interaction. For those interested, additional alcohol options like wine or beer can be purchased during the experience.

Practicalities and Tips

Because the location is near public transportation, reaching Chez Anjali should not be difficult for most travelers. However, be prepared for the stairs climb on arrival. The tour starts at 5:00 pm, making it a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping in Delhi.

The experience is booked on average 13 days in advance, which indicates good demand and the need to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling in peak seasons. Cancellation is straightforward—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours prior.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This cooking tour is perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic Indian recipes, travelers wanting a local cultural connection, and those seeking a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s especially suited for small groups or individuals, as it guarantees personalized attention. If you enjoy interactive experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing and want to take home more than souvenirs—like new cooking skills—then this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

For a modest investment, this experience delivers a meaningful glimpse into Indian home life, offering not only the chance to learn traditional recipes but also to make genuine connections. The warmth of the family, the delicious food, and the cultural insights create a memorable, enriching experience that stands apart from more touristy alternatives.

While the stairs might be a minor inconvenience for some, the authentic atmosphere more than compensates. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a curious traveler, or simply looking for an engaging local experience, this cooking demo with lunch or dinner at Chez Anjali offers good value and authentic charm.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options like paneer masala, and the experience specifically mentions interaction in a vegetarian household.

Can I choose between lunch or dinner?
Yes, you can opt for either a lunch or dinner experience, depending on your schedule and preference.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time for cooking, eating, and chatting.

Is the location easy to reach by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it convenient to get there without hassle.

What should I expect in terms of group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, which enhances the personal and intimate feel.

Are drinks included?
Complimentary fresh drinks and masala tea are included; additional wine, beer, or liquor can be purchased if desired.

What about accessibility?
The venue is on the second floor and requires climbing stairs, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked about 13 days ahead, so planning a couple of weeks in advance is advisable, especially in peak season.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just curious about Indian cooking, this experience offers a warm, authentic connection to Delhi’s local life. It’s a wonderful way to spend a few hours, learning, tasting, and making new friends in the process.