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Lalbaug's foodies, in search of paisa vasool Indian fare, should drop by Paratha Center for their spread of Parathas, Pav Bhajis and combo lunches

Lalbaug's foodies, in search of paisa vasool Indian fare, should drop by Paratha Center for their spread of Parathas, Pav Bhajis and combo lunches

When it comes to the humble paratha, Mumbai's restaurants have spared no effort to attempt several versions, to suit the palate of the discerning foodie. The latest to join the bandwagon is Paratha Center, a takeaway joint that dishes out a variety of Indian dishes, including several paratha options, at affordable rates.u00a0

Pic/Prathik Panchamiau00a0

The decor is functional, with a couple of plastic chairs and stools doubling up as tables. We ordered a Cocktail Paratha (Rs 70), which had a filling of capsicum, green peas and cheese. It arrived hot and pleased the palate but we would have loved it more if it came with adequate stuffing.

We ordered an Assorted Basket (Rs 125), which included Aloo Paratha, Gobi Paratha, Cheese Paratha and Green Peas Paratha. Again, the lack of adequate stuffing within made it difficult to savour the different ingredients. Still, we were somewhat sold with the overall package, which included Chana Masala, Raita and pickle. The Lassi (Rs 15) and Masala Chaas (Rs 10) maxed our cool quotient. There were a handful of mushrooms in the Mushroom Khada Pav Bhaji (Rs 60), yet we were ready to let it pass. We liked their dry fruit-rich Lalbaug Special Pav Bhaji (Rs 65), which included raisins, cashew nuts with loads of cheese and butter. Not for the calorie conscious. Their Tawa Pulao (Rs 35) was promising though it tasted similar to the Pav Bhaji.

If you are the health-conscious kinds opt for their Hara Bhara Paratha (methi, pudina, green peas) or the Soya Bean Paratha. Their Lunch Combo meals will appeal to the budget-conscious; choose from Dal Fry, Jeera Rice, Chaas and pickle (Rs 30) or two Parathas, Dal, Sabji and pickle (Rs 45). The service was prompt though the counter staff seemed confused at times. Head here if food is what matters and you're willing to ignore the mix of smoke and spicy aromas that waft through the air.

At Paratha Center, Manik Kunj, Dr SS Rao Road, Meghwadi, Lalbaug; Call 27900755. Paratha Center didn't know we were there.u00a0The Guideu00a0reviews anonymously and pays for meals.