Depot48

Depot48 is proof that Thursday nights in Delhi don’t have to be boring. If you like your nights loud, buzzing, and unapologetically queer, this one should be on your radar. They’ve also become quite well-known for platforming independent music and other fun events.

There are multiple seating options. On the second floor, things are intimate: karaoke nights, screenings, drag shows, and bar seating for people who like to spend time alone while sipping away their mid-week blues. Step onto the terrace, though, and all restraint disappears. On a Thursday evening, it’s packed shoulder-to-shoulder with unmatched energy and banger songs to keep your feet tapping. Plus, a gender-neutral bathroom that feels normal and not performative. 

The owner recommended his favourites to us, and we obliged. The crispy chicken bao is soft bread hugging a fried chicken chunk, loaded with sriracha mayo and fresh veggie crunch – and comfort food always works, after all. The steamed chicken momo came juicy and meaty. In Delhi, one generally steers clear of momos in bars… not here. You blink, the plate’s gone.

We also tried some fries and hummus and pita chilli – both decent, but nothing out of the ordinary. Ask us again when we’re several pints down though.

The real star is the Monicatini. It is a vodka-based drink that is spicy and sour. Spiced with green chilli and a candied ginger piece, this is a perfect accompaniment to the food and a perfect nudge to the dance floor. There are many other wonderful drinks to choose from, like the Banging Beagle and the Depot Smash.