Ghatkopar's Khau Galli gets a swish new eating joint that will keep its die-hard Gujarati patrons coming back for more
Ghatkopar's Khau Galli gets a swish new eating joint that will keep its die-hard Gujarati patrons coming back for more
Come weekends and Ghatkoparites swarm this eastern suburb's countless vegetarian restaurants, devouring everything from Jain Pizzas to Chinese Bhel and idlis served with sweetened sambhar.
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It's no secret that these folks proudly flaunt their 'eating out' tag. No wonder then, that as we approached Khau Galli, it took some effort to spot Desi Gourmet amid traffic snarls and overzealous crowds.
When we entered the cube-like restaurant tucked away in one of the buildings, it was nearly full. Considering it seats just 20, we were lucky to find a vacant table.
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Packaged mineral water in plastic cups greeted us as we scanned the pure-vegetarian menu with Jain dishes specially earmarked.
Mostly Gujarati in character, Desi Gourmet also serves South Indian and Maharashtrian fare, and a few Continental experiments.
The menu claims that every recipe is an original. We chose the Paanki Chatani (rice pancakes steamed in banana leaves, Rs 80) and were reassured by the waiter of its finger-licking attributes.
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The muggy evening meant Masala Chaas (Rs 40) was on the cards; it was served chilled, in hygienic plastic cups sporting sippers. Fancy.
Our piping-hot Paanki arrived with Mint Chutney and chillies, seasoned with a fiery tadka.
We gently pealed the two portions of yellow wafer-thin pancakes off the banana leaves and enjoyed the feisty combination with the two accompaniments.
Main course included Thepla Ane Batata Nu Shaak (Rs 110) and Kathol Ni Khichdi Ane Kadhi (Rs 110). Going by the time taken and the freshness of our food, it was obvious that the food was prepared on the spot.
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The theplas were fresh, thin and complimented the potato preparation well. The shaak's (vegetable) sweetness might come as a bit of a surprise to non-Gujaratis but we were sold by now.
It's ideal for a light afternoon indulgence. The khichdi, despite being a tad spicy, didn't disappoint and will make rice eaters break into a smile.
Having struck potluck till now, we got adventurous and rooted for the Garam Mohanthaal (Rs 70), for dessert.
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Made from gram flour, cardamom and topped with sliced almonds, this Gujarati special looked like an irresistible fudge-candy.
Rich, heavy and dripping with desi ghee, it dealt a telling, calorie-filled blow on our 'light-and-breezy' dinner till then.
At: Desi Gourmet, Shop No 7, New Happy Home Society, near Gurukripa Hotel, Vallabhbaug Cross Lane, Ghatkopar (E). Call: 22903036 / 25011449.
Desi Gourmet didn't know we were there. The Guide reviews anonymously and pays for meals
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