The advent of globalization and the emergence of global food giants in our country has led us towards huge fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King as well as several fine-dining restaurants, particularly in the metro cities of the country. However, there are certain iconic eateries from the past that are still fully-functional and serving us top-notch food to this day. Most of them started out during the pre-independence era when the British colonizers were still ruling our country. This meant that they would have an influence on the taste and menus of such eating joints, some of which have been retained. While you would find a lot of them in the capital city, Delhi, there are many others spread out across the sub-continent too.
In order to get a glimpse of the past, let us revisit some of these legendary eateries across the country and see what they have to offer us.
1. Leopold’s Café
Nestled in the wide lanes of Colaba, this is one of the most iconic cafes of Mumbai. Its relevance, you ask? Well, the 26/11 bullet marks on the walls have etched a strong sense of defiance in the memory of the people. Functional since 1871, their high-spirited staff and burger-beer menu has managed to keep the old world charm alive.
Where: Mumbai
Source: Solo Mama On Tour/Instagram
2. Karim’s
Whether you are native of Delhi or not, it is hard to miss out on this small yet culturally-rich restaurant when you set foot in the capital city. The aroma of the luscious nihari and korma will automatically drag you past the dingy streets and the magnanimous Jama Masjid of Old Delhi. Hazi Kareemuddin has been credited with several awards for Karim’s since it became operational in 1913.
Where: Delhi
Source: Karims/Instagram
3. Flury’s
The Park Street of Kolkata has a rich and culturally-diverse array of restaurants and eateries in place. Be it any festivity or a normal day, the street is bustling with crowd day in, day out. If you happen to be there, don’t forget to make a stop at Flury’s. The bakery cum tea room was started by a couple who go by the name Mr. and Mrs. Flury in the year 1927. From meringue cupcakes to rum balls, there isn’t a single dessert that won't strike a chord with your sweet tooth.
Where: Kolkata
Source: Flury's India/Instagram
4. Mavalli Tiffin Rooms
From the idlis to the dosa and chutney, every bite at the Mavalli Tiffin Rooms resonates with the authentic Udupi flavours. Fun Fact: Did you know that the invention of rava idli took place in the World War II, owing to a dearth in rice supply and MTR has been credited with it?
Where: Bengaluru
Source: Shreeshakaranth/Instagram
5. Glenary’s
Way past celebrating its centenary year, Glenary’s is a beautiful bakery, nestled in the foothills of Darjeeling. Founded by an Italian called Vado, this 100-year old eatery still smells of apple pies and Darjeeling tea along with a gamut of other desserts. The vintage interiors make it a highlight on the hilly terrain’s mall road.
Where: Darjeeling
Source: Glenary's/Instagram
6. Tunday Kababi
British might have left a mark on us but it’s the royal Nizami culture that has lingered on, all thanks to historic eateries like Tunday Kababi which have carried on the legacy of the soft and melt-in-your-mouth tunday kebabs. Tucked away in the tiny lanes of Lucknow, they also serve you with galouti kebabs and tangy chutneys.
Where: Lucknow
Source: Tunday Kababi/Instagram
We can already feel the scent of history on our plates, can you?
