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

Authentic Indian Cooking Experience at Chez Anjali in Delhi

This highly-rated cooking demo with a meal at Chez Anjali offers a rare glimpse into family-made Northern Indian cuisine. For about $35, you’ll spend approximately three hours learning, cooking, and sharing a meal with a welcoming Indian family. It’s a chance to go beyond touristy food stalls and get a real taste of local life and flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? It’s the personalized interaction with a family, their warm hospitality, and the opportunity to master cooking techniques like preparing paneer masala or chicken tandoori. It’s perfect for food lovers, cultural explorers, or anyone craving an authentic, home-cooked meal and meaningful connection.

One thing to keep in mind is that the activity involves climbing stairs to the second floor, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues. Also, it’s a private experience, so it’s best suited for those seeking an intimate, personal encounter rather than a large group class. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to dive into Indian culture through its cuisine, especially if you enjoy hands-on learning and sharing a meal in a family setting.

Key Points

• Personalized Indian experience with a welcoming family in Central Delhi
• Hands-on cooking of traditional Northern Indian dishes like paneer masala and chicken tandoori
• Includes a homemade meal and traditional drinks, with optional wine or liquor at extra cost
• Authentic cultural exchange with garlands, tikka, and warm hospitality
• Ideal for foodies looking for genuine, intimate local experiences
• Good value at $35 for a memorable cooking and dining experience

An Insider Look at the Chez Anjali Cooking Demo and Meal

What to Expect from the Tour

From the moment you arrive at Chez Anjali, located in the bustling heart of Central Delhi, you’ll be greeted with a traditional Indian welcome—flower garlands and a tikka adornment, setting the tone for a warm, family-centered experience. The host family is known for its hospitality and genuine desire to share their culinary traditions.

The session begins around 5:00 pm, giving you ample time to soak in the local environment and perhaps explore nearby areas beforehand. You’ll join a small, private group—either just your party or a few others—making it easy to ask questions, get personalized tips, and really feel involved.

Hands-On Cooking

The highlight of this experience is, of course, the cooking itself. Your dedicated guide will walk you through preparing several classic North Indian dishes, like paneer masala and chicken tandoori. These recipes are taught in a way that’s approachable even if you’re new to Indian cuisine, with clear instructions and lots of opportunities to practice.

Guests frequently mention how much they appreciated the hands-on guidance and the chance to learn secrets from a local family. One reviewer, Johanna, described it as “such a unique experience with lovely people,” emphasizing how much she learned and how fun the process was.

Sharing a Home-Cooked Meal

Once the dishes are ready, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is served in a warm, family-style setting, with complimentary fresh drinks and masala tea. You also have the option to add wine, beer, or liquor at an additional cost—perfect if you want to unwind after cooking.

Guests have described the meal as “delicious,” and many comment on how authentic and flavorful their dishes turned out, thanks in part to the detailed instructions from their host.

Cultural and Personal Touches

Beyond just cooking, this experience offers a glimpse into Indian hospitality. The family’s warmth and friendliness shine through, making it more than just a cooking class. It’s a chance to connect with local life, share stories, and leave with new recipes and a few new friends. One reviewer remarked, “This is how you make new friends!”

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $35 per person, which provides excellent value considering the personalized interaction, home-cooked meal, and culture. The booking typically requires about two weeks’ notice, reflecting its popularity among travelers seeking authentic experiences.

The activity lasts around three hours, starting at 5:00 pm, aligning well with an evening plan. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring an intimate and relaxed environment.

Location-wise, Chez Anjali is accessible near public transportation, though it’s on the second floor and requires climbing stairs. If mobility is a concern, this is worth considering, as the experience does not specify lift access.

What’s Included and Optional Extras

• Included: Welcome garlands, tikka, instruction, meal, and drinks (masala tea, soft drinks)
• Extras: Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at additional cost
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind if your plans change

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking demo is perfect for foodies, culture seekers, and travelers who enjoy authentic, family-based experiences. It’s especially suitable for those who want more than just a meal out—who crave a meaningful connection and a hands-on learning opportunity. If you’re interested in Indian cuisine and local customs, this tour offers a genuine taste of everyday Delhi life.

While it’s best suited for those comfortable with stairs and private settings, the warmth of the family and the quality of the experience make it worth considering. It’s an excellent way to gather new recipes, enjoy a delicious homemade meal, and create lasting memories with friendly hosts.

Overall, at just $35, this experience offers exceptional value for a deeply personal, culturally rich activity that goes far beyond the typical sightseeing tour.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians? Many Indian dishes are vegetarian, and since the experience specifies interaction with a vegetarian lunch/dinner, it’s likely suitable for vegetarians. Confirming dietary preferences with the host beforehand is recommended.

How long does the tour last? Expect around three hours, starting at 5:00 pm, including cooking, eating, and cultural interaction.

Is there a minimum group size? The tour is private, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are drinks included? Yes, complimentary fresh drinks and masala tea are included. Alcoholic beverages can be added at an extra cost.

Is the location accessible? The activity is on the second floor and requires climbing stairs, which may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns.

What makes this experience stand out? The opportunity to connect with a local family, learn authentic recipes, and enjoy a home-cooked Indian meal in a cozy setting.

This Delhi cooking experience at Chez Anjali offers an authentic, warm, and savory journey into Indian cuisine and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, it’s a delightful way to spend an evening and bring a piece of India back home through recipes and memories.