A Walk Down Memory Lane: Country's Famous Pre-Independence Eateries (Part II)

In a previous article, we took you through some of the most popular, local eateries in the northern and eastern part of the country that have survived close to over seventy years by serving their customers delightful food. They still continue to bring tradition and local culture to the plate, wrapped in flavours and aroma. This Independence Day join us on yet another exciting, gastronomic ride where we shall unravel some of the most famous eating points from western and southern India. Just in case you think we missed out on any that is worth mentioning in the list, share with us the details in the comment box below.

A Walk Down Memory Lane: Country's Famous Pre-Independence Eateries (Part I)

MUMBAI

Joshi Budhakaka Mahim Halwawala: The current owner, Mr. Joshi belongs to the seventh generation of the family that is known to have started this little sweet shop close to 225 years back. Giridhar Mavji, the owner, used to sell a special halwa on the streets of Mahim which gradually became so popular that people all across the country still visit the place just to take a bite of the Mahim Halwa. It is made of wheat extract, sugar and ghee. But unlike the traditional halwa, this preparation involves rolling out the cooked mixture in the form of sheets and then cutting them in delicate squares after it cools down.

Leopold Café: Popularly known as Leo's, this iconic café evokes old world charm of Bombay. The place is abuzz with patrons who have been dining here for years or tourists who have heard so much about the place that almost always, it makes it to the must-visit list of restaurants while in Mumbai. In existence since 1871, Leopold Café is the pride of maximum city. From beer, noodles, fries to burgers and decadent desserts, the café serves you with scrumptious meals.

Address: Colaba Causeway, Behind The Taj Palace, South Mumbai

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Café Madras: Found in the year 1940, Café Madras has been serving Mumbai some of the finest South Indian preparations since over seventy years now. People vouch for its filter coffee, Mysore Pak, Ragi Dosa and many other delicacies. Over the years, the restaurant hasn't changed much in terms of its ambience and it offers the dishes at very affordable rates. The menu doesn't only include the conventional South Indian preparations, but also traditional dishes like Pongal Avial, Pulioderai, Panpoli and the like.

P.S -The place very much in operation, not shutting down, not going anywhere from pleasing and serving its customers.

Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR): Founded by the Yajnanarayana Maiya brothers back in 1924, MTR is believed to be a place where Rava Idlis actually originated. Known for its mouthwatering idlis and dosas of course, the popularity of this cafeteria outnumbers many other eating places in the city. One should look at the number of people who throng at the restaurant over the weekends. There are people waiting in queues to get themselves a table at this legendary eatery.

Address: 4, Lalbagh Road, Mavalli, Near Basavanagudi, Bangalore

Sree Sagar (Central Tiffin Room): In a city like Bangalore, one thing that you are bound to notice is its love for Tiffin Rooms - small, cozy eating places that offer quick South Indian bites. CTR is famous for its breakfast options such as feather light idlis, vadas, and dosas - the Benne Masala Dosa is a must-try. In operation since 1940s, it is also known for the filter coffee and its unparalleled service and quality of food.

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PUNE

Dorabjee and Sons Restaurant: For the love of authentic Parsi food, head to this charming, old restaurant in Pune. It hasn't changed a bit ever since it first came into existence back in 1878. The traditional specialties are all an outcome of time-tested recipes handed down through generations. The outer look of it is not that appealing, but as they say, "don't judge the book by its cover", this little Parsi restaurant has a hurricane simmering in its rustic pots waiting to be served to you. Goes without saying, you must not skip giving their Salli Boti, Dhansak, Patra Nu Fish and biryanis a try.

Address: 845, Dastur Meher Road, Sarbatwalla Chowk, Camp Area, Pune

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Appa's Canteen: Talking of simple, humble eating spaces, another on the list is Appa chi canteen next to Deccan Gymkhana. With its almost tatty, crumbling exteriors, this small tea-point-looking eating joint is always packed with food lovers from across the nation. Founded by Ramchandra Bhatt - lovingly called as Appa (father) by many locals - in the year 1942, the canteen is emblematic of the fact that good and hygienic food entices mammoth demand no matter what. If you plan to visit the place anytime soon, make sure you order their special Cucumber Sabudana Khichdi and Uppit.

Address: Next to the Billiards Department, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune 411004

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UDUPI

Mitra Samaj: Situated quite close to the legendary Krishna Temple, this authentic Udupi restaurant is well renowned for its dosas, coffee and Goli Baje, also known as Mangalore Bajji. The place is believed to be close to 100 years old with a recently extended menu. Some of the locals are of the opinion that this little eatery were the first to introduce the world famous Masala Dosa. For those visiting for the very first time, your list of must-try items should include Mangalorean Bun, Masala Dosa, Karnataka-style Khasta Kachori and badaam milk.

Address: Car Street, close to the Krishna Temple, Udupi

Address: 31, Arundale Street, Mylapore, chennai