Madras Coffee House — Restaurant in New Delhi

This is nice place in CP.

Extracted from MCH :: Madras Coffee House has evolved with the changing landscape of the city. It won't be an anomaly to say that the roots of the restaurant are as old as the evolution of Delhi as we see it today. Set in the newly established Connaught Circus, Madras Coffee House first opened its doors in 1935 as Shanghai Restaurant and Bar', a Chinese restaurant strictly serving to the British (it was still the British Raj, remember!) With a cautionary board outside, 'No dogs and Indians allowed', the restaurant was a popular joint with its ball room for the British Army troops and their families, where couples would come dancing every evening.

Soon as the days of the Raj were coming to an end, the restaurant drifted along the spirit of nationalism and changed to 'Respo Milk Bar in 1947, a family run initiative by Mr. Jain and his brothers, serving milk based and non-alcoholic beverages through its bar counter.

The flamboyance of the place and the fact that it was one of the only three coffee houses in Connaught Circus, made it a prominent landmark on the city's map etched on the memory of many who visited it. Open to people from all walks of life, the restaurant offered comfort and good food, sewing as a backyard for daily meets and discussions.

Undaunted by the fear of yet another change, over a decade into independence, the restaurant became a pioneer to introduce South Indian cuisine to Delhi.

Through more than 85 years of standing tall in the food and beverage industry, continuing to believe in its legacy and strengthening the principles of its founding ethos-trust, honesty, transparency and immaculate hospitality, the restaurant has served generations of customers who have become a part of the MCH family and will continue to do so.

Enter MCH through Shanghai's vestibule, looking into Respo's crochery filled bar, sitting en sofas and tables of the Coffee House, a place undisturbed and laid-back, an ambience that has not been goaded by the fast-changing world, it offers you the insights of life of the bygone era. Keeping its avant-garde spirit, reviving its façade and outlook, infusing fragments of the modern era, but most importantly having the...

Madras Coffee House, nestled in the bustling Connaught Place, Delhi, is a go-to spot for those craving a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine. Known for its traditional flavors and simple yet nostalgic ambiance, this eatery has garnered attention over the years. If you're expecting a glitzy, modern café, you might be surprised Madras Coffee House maintains an old-school charm that some find endearing while others feel could use a refresh.

Food: The restaurant serves classic *South Indian fare,

with highlights like Paper Masala Dosa, soft, steaming Idlis, and their signature filter coffee. The flavors remain true to tradition, but some customers mention inconsistencies in taste and portion size. Service: The staff is generally courteous, though during peak hours, service can be slow. A few reviews note that orders take longer than expected and communication could be improved. Ambiance: While some find the no-frills setting charming, others feel the space could be better maintained. It's a place that resonates with those who appreciate a retro South Indian café experience, but it may not appeal to those looking for modern aesthetics.

Overall Verdict Madras Coffee House offers a decent South Indian meal in a nostalgic setting, but with room for improvement in service efficiency and upkeep. If you're in Connaught Place and craving a comforting dosa with a strong cup of filter coffee, it's worth a visit—but don't expect a high-end...

Madras Coffee House has been able to successfully withstand money-making corporations and multi-national food chains and stand tall& proud as one of the oldest café’s/restaurants/hotels in the capital city. This coffee house is a legacy in itself because of its rich historical background and cultural importance. It emits a strong sense of pride and loyalty which is why the owner feels that in a couple of years, the Madras Coffee House will be considered as a heritage landmark.

The ambience of this place is sure to make you nostalgic. The pale off-white walls running across the coffee house, covered with broad panels of metal engravings are met with dark orange tables and modest wooden chairs covered with an olive green fabric. The entire place is exactly how it was in the 1950

The menu is diverse with a wide array of dishes spread across Indian, Chinese and South Indian. The infamous filter coffee, the airy-light Idli’s and the delicious Special Masala Dosa were my favourites from the menu. The filter coffee was made just like any typical south Indian filter coffee served with a sugar pot. The Idli’s were soft and airy, accompanied by an authentic rendition of the coconut chutney & spicy Sambar, the special masala Dosa Is also...