Monday, 26 August 2013

Food by the Clock

A bun maska stall, most famous for its only-morning timings, Britannia, where lunch is the most important (and only) meal of the day, a roadside roll stall that come alive when the sun goes down... in this era of 24-hour establishments, it is the odd restaurant that restricts business hours.

Hop on for a tour of eateries in downtown South Mumbai that work on a timetable of their own.

Breakfast Only:
Bun-maskawalla at Churchgate station, in an alley next to the Passenger Ticketing Building 

Timing: 6:30 am onwards, through the morning.

In a city saturated with roadside foodstalls, there are the mediocre, and then there are the truly memorable. Abdul Aziz's bun-maska falls into the latter category. His humble stall has over the years become a landmark in Churchgate and a favourite for commuters.
Its 19-year history, including a MGCM-triggered location change has not prevented this unassuming bun-maska stall from developing a loyal fan following.

Must try: The regular bun-maska, generously laden with dollops of butter. Cheese and jam varieties are also popular.



Open for Lunch

Britannia, Ballard Estate, Fort

Timings: 11:30 am to 4 pm, Monday to Saturday

Tucked away in a quiet corner of town, admist swanky corporate houses, this is one restaurant trapped in a time bubble.
Started in 1923 by Rashid Meherwan Kohinoor, it has retained the glorious old world charm. Britannia (top right pic) is the quintessential Irani joint, complete with the incandescent light bulbs, rickety wooden furniture and marble-topped tables. The authentic Parsi food makes it a must-visit.

Must Try: The berry pulao is the restaurant's signature dish. The berries are imported all the way from Iran. As the story goes, the late wife of the original proprietor, Mrs. Kohinoor, spent seven years in Tehran, Iran and brought back with her the recipe for the berry pulao. Britannia is the only restaurant across India which serves authentic berry pulao. The dhanshak-rice is also worth a mention.


Late night dinner

Ayubs, Kala Ghoda, near Rhythm house

Timing: 6:30 pm to 1:30 am

Calling all creatures of the night! If it is good food you seek, then all roads lead to this unassuming roadside joint. Ayubs rolls up their shutters after sunset and is famous for
satisfying nocturnal hunger pangs.

Don't expect any fancy seating or service, just the assurance of some unforgettable food, eaten against the hood of your car.

Must try: Ayubs was founded in 1982, and since then, has grown into a legend of sorts on the street-side food circuit. Patrons swear by the paneer roll, grilled on an open tawa.

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