Updated On: 29 April, 2025 08:01 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
"I just kept thinking it would get better." Sunita Gonsalves began making the local delicacy unlike any other—and today, she runs a thriving business built on grit, resilience and flavour

Sunita Gonsalves has been making delicious chicken pattice pavs in Chulne village in Vasai for 18 years now. Photo Courtesy: Nascimento Pinto
Nestled in Vasai's Chulne village, Sunita Gonsalves has been serving a chicken treat for over 18 years. Back then, it was relatively unknown, but now, several similar shops have sprung up across the north Mumbai region.
The roadside shop, painted green, is adorned with a photo frame of Jesus Christ and Mother Mary. Though it has no name, it’s synonymous with Sunita Gonsalves’ food, as many Vasaikars make a beeline to feast on her signature egg batter-fried patty—made with finely minced spiced chicken, mashed potatoes and coriander. Today, she also sells vada pavs, but over the years, she has become known for the chicken delicacy. Ask her if she thought about financial independence when starting her business, and she says that never occurred to her, but is happy that she was able to contribute to the family expenses.
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