Ask ten regulars what to order at Delhi Darbar and you’ll get ten different kabab recommendations — because the kabab lineup is deep enough that everyone ends up with their own favorite. Here’s a breakdown of the core styles on the menu and what makes each one distinct.
Seekh Kabab
The classic. Ground, spiced meat formed onto skewers and grilled over open flame until the outside gets a proper char while the inside stays juicy. Seekh kabab is built on a base of finely minced meat mixed with onions, herbs, and a warm spice blend, which gives it a softer, more uniform texture compared to the sliced-meat kababs on the menu. It’s a safe, satisfying order for first-timers and a staple for regulars who order it nearly every visit.
Boti Kabab
Boti kabab is made from chunks of marinated meat — usually beef or chicken — skewered and grilled whole rather than ground. The marinade typically includes yogurt and a blend of spices that tenderizes the meat while it sits, and the result is a kabab with more bite and texture than seekh, with charred edges giving way to a juicy center.
Reshmi Kabab
“Reshmi” translates roughly to “silky,” and that’s exactly the texture this kabab is known for. Made typically with chicken, marinated in a cream-and-yogurt-based mixture with mild spices, reshmi kabab is one of the gentler options on the menu — less char-forward than boti or seekh, and a good choice for anyone who wants kabab flavor without a strong smoky punch.
Bihari Kabab
Thin-sliced, papaya-marinated beef, grilled hot and fast for a distinct char and chew. It’s different in both texture and preparation from the other kababs on this list, and it’s the base for Delhi Darbar’s popular Bihari kabab roll, wrapped in fresh paratha.
Building a Kabab Platter
If you can’t decide, the smart move is to order a mix — a platter that includes two or three different kabab styles lets you compare textures and spice levels side by side. This is a popular approach for groups at Delhi Darbar, where sharing a mixed kabab platter across the table means everyone gets to try more without committing to one order each.
Pairing Ideas
Kababs pair naturally with naan, a side of dal fry, or a simple salad and chutney to cut through the richness. For a full meal, adding a small portion of biryani rounds things out.
