The Udipis selling piping hot idlis and dosai had mastered the idea of Quick Service Restaurants way before the others joined in. Here’s looking at some of the dishes that landed them on every foodie’s road map
The concept of QSRs is definitely one that we can proudly claim as our own. After all the local udipis have worked on this principle of tasty food and service at a quick pace for time in memorial. And while many lost out to competition and shut shop, the ones in Matunga not only managed to hold fort but also still draw crowds from across generations.Taking a walk down these familiar streets, we sample some of the popular south Indian fare that draws serpentine queues to these landmark eating haunts.
Cafe Madras
What to have? Tuppa Dosa (A ghee dosa served with podi, a condiment prepared using a mix of ground dry spices like dried chillies, urad (bean), chickpea, and sesame seeds). This Mangalore-style dosa is a hot favourite for its spongy, yet crisp texture served with podi and sambhar and coconut chutney. A good breakfast or snack option that can be had plain or with the podi, which for some would be an acquired taste because of its nutty flavour. Also, worth a mention is the Upma Podi (Rs 45) a ghee laden upma, sprinkled with podi. It simply melts in your mouth and vanishes even before you realise it’s over.
COST: Rs 50, AT: 38 B, Circle House, King’s Circle, Matunga (E)
Mani’s Lunch Home
What to have? The special meals priced economically. A basic one comes with two bowls of rice, two chappattis, a dry and liquid bhaji (as described in the menu), sambhar, rasam, curd, pickle and one Kerala papad. You can also try the Special Meals (Rs 120) served on a banana leaf with one pure ghee sweet or payasam
COST: Rs 60, AT: Opposite South Indian Rajan Samaj, Matunga (E)
Arya Bhavan
What to have? Well, you decide that on the basis of what’s new at this outlet. Naya kya hain? is a common query that the staff has to field from foodies who come here more to try something different and offbeat. We decided to go with the Brahmin Idli, a kulfi shaped idli that’s quite filling. You get four pieces of this novel version of the idli with sambhar, coconut chutney, ghee and podi. And while you’re there, make sure to check out their milk beverage flavours of the month. They may not have a south Indian connect, but do score for innovation and taste. After Dark Mint (Rs 60) and Rich Caramel Almond (Rs 60) are both winners. Chocoholics can try the former, while others can opt for the latter.
COST: Rs 75, AT: Opposite Matunga Railway Station, Matunga (E)
Hotel Ramashray
Once you have had a hearty meal, make sure to leave some space for dessert. The pineapple sheera served here has quite a reputation and draws people from across the city. Another interesting find is the buttermilk served in a milk bottle. It’s refreshing and has a good amount of coriander leaves and other spices that blend in well to make it a must-try.
COST: Rs 20
AT: Bhandarkar Road, Matunga (E)
Cafe Mysore
What to have? Khoto Idli which is steamed in a jackfruit leaf and served with sambhar and coconut chutney. As you unwrap this steamed rice pancake, the aroma of the jackfruit leaves hits you, egging you on to take a bite. Dousing some sambhar and garlic chutney on it is a good way to start digging in. In fact, don’t be surprised if you love the sambhar more than the idli, we actually finished two bowls of it, and would have easily downed a whole glass. Pair that with a steaming mug of King’s Coffee (Rs 40), a brand that is specially served here, and you will have the perfect end to your meal.
COST: Rs 50
AT: 461, Durlabh Nivas, Bhaudaji Road, opposite King’s Circle Garden,
Matunga (E)
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