Mumbai’s Best Dhabas
There’s no denying there’s a certain charm about them. An earthy, rustic ambience, khatiyas to sit on, brassware laid out and lots of people milling around. Every once in a while, you just want to escape to a dhaba and dig into some unbelievably delicious north Indian fare, complete with the cold lassi and soft naans. Laila picks out some of the best dhabas in Mumbai that merit a visit.
Firangi Dhaba
Your wayside dhaba just took a contemporary turn with Firangi Dhaba. Unusual interiors, good starters and inexpensive beverages make this a popular hangout. The restaurant is a riot of colours and designs, giving it that contemporary dhaba ambience. The menu offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian, Chinese and Punjabi fare. Sit in a rickshaw or in a palki, dig into delicious food and listen to some live music. Firangi Dhaba primarily serves Punjabi cuisine and is a great place to host events and other functions. Try the masala chaas, murg achari kebab, murg kakori and murg dil-e-bahar.
Kinara Dhaba
Situated on the highway, the first thing you notice about this dhaba is its huge size. Like any quintessential dhaba, you will find khatiyas to sit on here. They also have private huts, if you’re looking for a dhaba experience sans the crowd that comes with it. With a ghazal singer providing the necessary entertainment quotient, go ahead and eat your fill of Mughlai dishes. You’ll love the spread, but be sure you ask for the prices before you order because what you might think is complimentary, may actually turn out to be a little expensive!
Pritam Da Dhaba
Of course you’ve heard of this place before. This place is popular among those looking for a complete Punjab-da experience. Sit on charpais and indulge in makkai di roti, sarso da saag, gobi da paratha, kali mah ki dal and even rajma. Pritam also has indoor seating – Pritam’s Restaurant and Bar – that serves great Mughlai food.
Downtown Dhaba
This one may look like one of those shabby dhabas, so head to Downtown only for the food. The menu offers a range of Punjabi and Chinese vegetarian and non-vegetarian food as well as fast food dishes. This place is known for its quick service and high turnover. Try the sweet corn chicken soup, chicken handi, paneer sagwala and tandoori rotis. Home deliveries are offered within the area.
Other places you could visit include Guru Da Dhaba in Lokhandwala, for cheap food dhaba-ishtyle. Pratap’s Dhaba is the place to go to for a real dhaba-like feel, but with great facilities. You could also go with your mates to Kake da Dhaba for good Punjabi food, yummy parathas and cheap alcohol.
Heading out already?
Laila would love to know if there’s anything else you’d like to see on this list. Go ahead and comment.
