Civil Lines Social — Restaurant in Civil Lines

Nice, cozy, interesting place in the Exchange Stores building area in Civil Lines. Easily accessible, bang on the main arterial road of Civil Lines (Sham Nath Marg), and just outside gates 2 and 3 of Civil Lines Metro station. Parking may be a slight issue at busy hours since there are other upmarket eateries at the location.

The ambiance is 'cool' and casual, outdoor seating tables are comfortable seating four, and a few of them at the end of the terrace can take more. Lighting is adequate, soft without any blinding 'effects'. Indoor, air-conditioned seating is available, and though I did not personally experience it, the ambience and comfort is affords looks quite decent. Music is not intrusive, and volume is sensibly set and does not drown out any conversations guests have amongst themselves.

Service was prompt, though I was there midweek when footfall anyway wasn't high. Courteous servers, willing to help out with selection of dishes. Why they do not have hard copies of the menu beats me; and to access their 'availabilities' you scan a QR code available at every table. Though the interface of the electronic menu is easy to navigate, there is nothing to beat a hard copy, and this I sorely missed. Also, for the not so tech-savvy (yes, it's true, there are many) it is a bit cumbersome. But, the servers sure help.

Cutlery is interesting, with 'hashtags' printed. And, finally, the bill is presented in a box with #Damage printed on the lid - innovative punch :).

And, of course, the food. That's precisely what one goes there for. The menu has an extensive spread. I was pleasantly surprised by the portion size, absolutely 'humongous' and filling. Presentation was quite very good. Flavours were spot on. Their Grilled fish with mash and grilled veggies was surprisingly very delectable. Mutton tacos - wonderful, 'Nina Aunty's' Mutton dhansak with brown rice was so tender and delicious and portion size good for two (the only thing that didn't pair well here was the mango chutney), the veg grilled platter - yummm. Try their sugarcane juice - not there on the menu but they are more than willing to provide for you (they claim it is fresh pressed and not the canned product, and yes, it tasted Wow!).

They have a wide variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-, though the choices in the non- ones were a little limited. I tried the Negroni, and to be honest, I've tasted a better mix elsewhere.

Sorely missed is the lack of finger bowls or wet towels or wipes to clean hands after dining. The management should consider providing them. What is available is a tissue roll on the table which is not at all ergonomic to use.

The #damage - reasonable. And yes, they build in a 10% service charge into it.

Overall, a truly satiated...

Civil Lines Social – The Exchange Building, Sham Nath Marg, Civil Lines, New Delhi

If you want vintage Delhi charm blended with Social’s cool cafe-bar vibe, this place nails it. The decor is a gorgeous mash-up of colonial-era artifacts—brass mirrors, antique clocks, typewriters, even a piano—and art‑deco motifs sprinkled all around. The semi‑open terrace with cast‑iron seating and lush greens feels like a Victorian garden right in Civil Lines .

Ambience is warm and relaxed—choose between the cosy indoor dining or breezy outdoor terrace pods. It’s casually lively without being overwhelming—perfect for laid‑back evenings or after‑work hangouts ().

Food quality is solid: I tried the Purani Delhi Chaat Walk, chicken momos platter, and the Abra Kebab‑ra (tandoori momos, paneer tikka, soya chaap) and they were all flavorful and generous—though a few reviewers flagged quantity vs price. But overall taste hits the mark . The Chinese and North‑Indian fusion bites shine—don’t miss the butter garlic pepper prawns, smashed tenderloin burger or Pepperoni & Bacon pizza if you’re in the mood for eggs or meat options .

Service is polite and attentive, though a couple of recent reviews cite slow service in peak hours—still, staff generally feel welcoming and efficient .

Now about my go‑to drink: the Long Island Iced Tea here is consistently strong, balanced, fruity and exactly what I crave in a cocktail night. Their Twisted Classics line is worth exploring too—even if some folks on Reddit jokingly call Social overhyped, the LIIT is a solid reason to return .

Price point sits at around ₹1,200–1,500 for two with drinks—bit higher than street food joints, but acceptable for a night out in a stylish setting. Some visitors have mentioned minor issues like mosquitoes in the terrace during certain seasons or slower service during weekends—just something to note if outdoor seating’s your vibe .

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Overall: Civil Lines Social is a top pick for those who love atmospheric dining in Delhi with decent food, signature cocktails (especially that LIIT), and a vintage‑meets-modern setting. If you’re in Civil Lines and in the mood to chill over good food and strong drinks, this venue’s a safe bet—for couples, friends or solo visits alike.

👉 Recommended dishes: Purani Dilli Chaat Walk, momos platter, Abra kebab‑ra. 🍹 Favourite drink: Long Island Iced Tea—strong, refreshing, classic.

Sorry for the lack of photos. Will update...

With its seamless blend of Art Deco and Colonial architecture, Civil Lines captures the essence of old-world charm while embracing modernity. And now, with SOCIAL's signature touch, it is all set to become the ultimate hangout spot for the city's young and vibrant crowd. The new outlet at The Exchange Building pays homage to the nostalgic colonial pays homage to the nostalgic colonial culture of Civil Lines with a mnodern twist. As you step inside, you'll be transported to a unique era where you can unwind and experience the signature SOCIAL vibe. From the ornate design elements to the vintage artifacts, the outlet embodies the grandeur of a classic Civil Lines home. Feast your eyes on the antique mirrors, corner shelves, and wall clocks that complete the décor, giving visitors glimpse into the Past. Step out to our terrace, where the cast-iron culture of Civil Lines with a modern twist. As you step inside, you'llbe transported to a unique era where you can unwind vibe. From the ornate design elements to the vintage artifacts, the outlet embodies the grandeur of a classic Civil Lines home. Feast your eyes on the antique mirrors, corner shelves, and wall clocks that complete the décor, giving visitors a glimpse into the past. Step out to our terrace, where the cast-iron seating will transport you to a Victorian Garden party. The semi-open partitions are arched like your dance mnoves, and the synmetrical seating pods are covered by a conservatory-style roof. The motif patterns are mimicked in the heavy balusters and dense plants, making the outdoor area feel like a bohemian paradise with Art Deco features.Went there for rad living candle making, too noise...