Timeless allure of these pre-independence era eateries in India

Ever wondered just how many eateries are there all across India? This is the kind of maths we don’t dare to even attempt. Let’s just say there are way too many to count. This hiccup is there because nowadays there are several new ones that pop up every other day (‘several’ would be an understatement).

However, this was not the case decades ago, especially, during the pre-independence era. Back then only a small section of the society had resources to eat out, let alone open an establishment like an eatery. But those who could, did open these restaurants where they served some of the most iconic food items. Decades later, these eateries are still functional and enjoy the same iconic status and they did back then. There’s a lot of history attached to these establishments.

Easily one of the oldest eateries in India, Leopold Cafe was established in 1871. This is one of the most iconic Parsi eateries in Mumbai. In the recent past, Leopold Cafe was in the middle of a terrorist attack.

This iconic kulfi shop in Chawri Bazaar (Old Delhi) dates back to 1906. The kulfis here have fans coming in from places far and wide. Get kulfis in flavours like paan, mango, and rose.

Karim’s been around since 1913. This iconic restaurant is renowned for its Mughlai cuisine, especially kebabs and biryanis. Karim’s is an unmissable part of your old Delhi tour. It is located just a short walk away from Jama Masjid.

Established in 1923, Britannia & Co. is known for its Parsi cuisine. Those who are in love with Parsi cuisine, make sure to visit the restaurant for their berry pulav and the caramel custard.

MTR, as it is most popularly known, was established in 1924 and is one of the oldest establishments in the city that serves authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes. It is a famous eatery where fans throng every morning for a hearty breakfast.

This iconic tearoom and confectionery opened its doors in 1927, and has been serving mouthwatering traditional European confections ever since. When you are in Park Street, do visit this iconic restaurant which is also a famous landmark.

Cafe Mondegar in Mumbai opened its doors in 1932. It is an iconic landmark in Mumbai that is most famous for its retro ambiance, hearty meals and walls that are covered with artworks of Mario Miranda, the great Goan cartoonist.

Vidyarthi Bhavan was established in the year 1943. Since then, it has been an integral part of the breakfast meal of many locals and visitors. The restaurant opens early to meet the breakfast hour and even so early in the day, you will find this place packed to the rafters.