There is a specific kind of magic that settles over Delhi in the winter. While Sunder Nursery has always been our favourite sanctuary for a slow Sunday, this season it feels even more special.
The park has transformed into a culinary hotspot in its own right, and we aren’t just talking about packing a basket anymore – though we still love a good picnic.
A new wave of cafes has moved in, blending perfectly with the park’s heritage soul. From the scent of freshly pulled espresso to the buttery flake of a croissant, here are six reasons to spend what’s left of the season at Sunder Nursery.
If you’ve spent any time in Chhatarpur, you know Café Dori is the gold standard for that “cool, understated” aesthetic. Their new bistro at Sunder Nursery brings that same panache.
The interior is classic Dori–minimalist, thoughtful, and warm–but the real win is the sunny outdoor seating here. It’s the perfect spot for a long, lazy brunch where the conversation flows as easily as their signature beverages.
Must try: The Mushroom Melt on sourdough or their rustic Mediterranean Sandwich with an indulgent Hot Chocolate.
Sometimes, winter calls for something a little more indulgent, and Meltado delivers exactly that. Located amidst the greenery, this spot focuses on the kind of food that is messy, yet it makes you smile.
Their menu is a love letter to cheese and comfort. Whether it’s a grilled sandwich that actually pulls apart like the ones in the movies or a hearty snack, Meltado is all about the joy of indulging.
Must try: Their signature Mozzarella Cheese Sticks or the famously gooey Mac n Cheese.
There is a distinct ritual to a Cortasso visit: the smell of roasting beans hitting you before you even see the counter. For the coffee purists and the pastry lovers, this is your new home base.
Their croissants are a masterclass in lamination–shattering into a thousand buttery shards with every bite. Paired with a robust flat white, it’s the ultimate companion for a solo date with a book (if that’s what you’re looking for).
Must try: Any of their Artisanal Croissants – they are a non-negotiable.
Perch has long been a darling of the Delhi food scene, known for its impeccable wine list and “coffee-to-cocktails” philosophy. Seeing them take root in Sunder Nursery feels like a natural evolution.
She’s the newest kid on the block; where you go when the afternoon picnic turns into an early evening celebration. The menu is light, seasonal, and always honours the ingredients.
Must try: Grilled Fish Tacos with pineapple salsa or the Miso Grilled Chicken.
Named after the Mesopotamian goddess of writing and grain, NISABA is the newest crown jewel in the park’s culinary map.
Curated by the legendary Chef Manish Mehrotra, this isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a celebration of ingredients. The architecture is stunningly glass-heavy, blurring the lines between the lush greenery outside and the refined dining space inside.
Must try: The Saag Burrata or the Naga Black Chicken Curry with sticky rice.
There’s something meditative about eating a hot dosa while looking out at the greenery.
It’s the kind of place where the staff is as warm as the filter coffee, and the wooden-deck seating invites you to linger long after you’ve finished your meal.
Must try: The Malleswaram 18th Cross Dosa (thick, fluffy, and podi-laden) or the Benne Masala Dosa with their iconic, frothy Filter Coffee served in a traditional davara.
Pro Tip: Weekends can get really busy! So if you’re looking for that “quaint garden” feel, try a Tuesday morning or a late Thursday afternoon to catch the golden hour in peace.
