Why Shree Thaker Bhojanalay’s Gujarati Thali Has Been A Mumbai Staple For Legends Like Bachchan & Ambani

Mumbai is always called a melting pot of cultures, and that extends to its wide variety of cuisines. And in its Kalbadevi area, tucked away in a narrow lane, stands a culinary institution that has been serving one of the city's most beloved meals for over seven decades. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, established in 1945 by Maganlal Purohit, offers an authentic Gujarati thali (with a touch of Rajasthan) that has become a must-try meal in the city for generations.

Walking through the cramped alley and up a flight of narrow stairs to reach this first-floor eatery might not immediately suggest a premier dining destination. However, once inside, the air-conditioned space welcomes diners with a wall adorned with photographs of celebrity patrons, a testament to the restaurant's enduring quality and reputation. Now owned by Gautam Purohit, who also serves as head chef, this family-run establishment has maintained its commitment to excellence throughout its 75-plus years of operation. The restaurant's philosophy is simple, do one thing, but do it exceptionally well. This simplicity has drawn generations to the spot, and spans the full gamut of Mumbai society including prestigious names like Dirubhai Ambani and Amitabh Bachchan.

What sets Shree Thaker Bhojanalay apart is its impressive unlimited thali, with a wdie variety of dishes. This magnificent spread usually includes over 30 distinct items, creating a comprehensive sampling of Gujarati cuisine's diverse flavours and textures.

The meal begins with an assortment of farsan (savoury snacks) and starters, including dhoklas in various colours, samosas, and pakodis. Main dishes feature an array of vegetable preparations made from bottle gourd, ivy gourd, cow peas, and green gram, prepared both dry and with gravy. These are accompanied by sweet dal, kadhi (a yoghurt-based curry), laccho dal rice, pulao, and khichdi.

The bread basket is equally impressive, offering rotlis, rotlas, bhakris, bhakras, puris, and puran polis. Complementing these are various chutneys, both sweet and spicy, alongside papad and pickle. A bottomless glass of buttermilk (chaas) helps wash it all down. The feast concludes with at least two sweet offerings, often including aam ras (mango pulp), basundi (thickened sweetened milk), and gulab jamun.

Despite its modest "worker's canteen" ambience, the dining experience at Shree Thaker Bhojanalay is enhanced by its attentive staff. Barefoot waiters constantly circle the dining room, persuasively encouraging diners to accept additional servings. The pre-paid system is unique; diners pay at the counter and receive a token before being guided to their table. Given the restaurant's popularity, solo diners should expect to share tables with others, a communal dining experience that reflects the spirit of sharing inherent in the thali tradition.

Renowned for its authentic Gujarati flavours, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay serves food that tastes genuinely homemade. The spices are mellow, and dishes like the Gujarati kadhi—often considered the benchmark for judging a Gujarati thali—are consistently prepared to perfection. The sweet dal strikes an ideal balance, while the various vegetable curries, though simple, complement the dal and kadhi perfectly.

The restaurant has welcomed distinguished visitors over the years, including American chef Alice Waters, who reportedly tasted jowar bhakri (a millet flatbread) here for the first time. It's also a go-to destination for many Bollywood stars including Farah Khan, Vidya Balan, Tripti Dimri and many more, they've also hosted Michelin Star chefs like Vineet Bhatia, cricket legend, Sachin Tendulkar, Nigella Lawson, Chef Alain Passard, Ness Wadia, Asha Bhosle and many many more.

At Rs 600 per thali some visitors find the pricing steep compared to similar establishments in Gujarat itself, where comparable quality thalis might be available for half the price. However, given the unlimited nature of the meal, the central Mumbai location, and the restaurant's heritage status, many consider it worthwhile despite the cost.

More than just a restaurant, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay represents a significant piece of Mumbai's culinary heritage. Its longevity speaks to the enduring appeal of traditional Gujarati cuisine presented with consistency and care. For over 75 years, it has brought together people from all walks of life to share in the communal joy of an authentic thali experience.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Food News, Lifestyle and around the world.