No visit to Ahmedabad or a heritage walk through its Old City would be truly complete without a stop at Chandravilas restaurant! Opened in 1900, this heritage eatery is one of the oldest dine-in restaurants and the first-ever ‘Nashta Ghar’ of the city. Now run by the third generation of the Joshi family, it has managed to retain its old world charm, serving its signature jalebi and fafda.
As we visited the place, the nostalgic aroma of jalebis frying in ghee and fafda sizzling in oil welcomed us. The constant buzz of patrons, even on a quiet weekday afternoon, made it clear just how popular this place really is!
Started in 1900 by Chimanlal Hemraj Joshi as a small tea place!
It all started with Chimanlal Hemraj Joshi, who opened Chandravilas as a small tea cart back in 1900. His “cha” (as we Gujaratis fondly call it) quickly became the talk of the town, and before long, he was serving up a whopping 18,000 cups a day! The addition of fafda and jalebi to the menu cemented its place in Ahmedabad’s culinary history.
Today, Chimanlal’s grandson, Malav Joshi, runs the show with his family, continuing to serve up nostalgic flavours. “People have an emotional connection with the place,” Malav shared with us. “They visit thinking of the fathers and grandfathers who brought them here, and that’s something we’re proud to preserve.” Mission accomplished—this place has done just that!
Must try: Fafda-jalebi & Gujarati Thali!
The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a delightful mix of the old and new: Amdavad-style wooden doors, vintage mirrors, vintage sculptures, and a lot of history. Amidst all this, the intoxicating smell of sizzling farsans and jalebis wafts through the air, inviting you to dig in.
Fun fact: The iconic tradition of pairing fafda and jalebi during Dussehra is believed to have started at Chandravilas! What’s more, this was the first dine-in restaurant in the city that introduced the famous Gujarati thali—first served for just Rs 1!
While you absolutely can’t leave without trying the signature fafda and jalebi, make sure you also order the Gujarati Combo—it’s the ultimate feast that’ll introduce you to all the classics. Think undhiyu, bateta nu shaak, chhole, sev usad, samosa, gota, bateta vada, khaman, fulvadi, kadhi, lilavati kachori, chutney, papaya sambharo, puri, fried marcha and of course, fafda and jalebi. This thali combo is hefty enough to feed two or three people, so bring your appetite (and a few friends to share it with).
A heritage restaurant frequented by many celebrities!
The menu is small, but each dish hits all the right notes with its authentic Gujarati flavours and warmth. And if you’re wondering about the clientele, you’ll be in good company! Mahatma Gandhi, Raj Kapoor, Kishore Kumar, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Narendra Modi, and Amitabh Bachchan have all dined here. Yet despite the star-studded history, it remains a beloved spot for locals—everyone from families to foodies drop by for a taste of nostalgia.
Chandravilas is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living, breathing piece of Ahmedabad’s heritage. So, next time you find yourself in the city, make sure to stop by and indulge in a plate of history!
Location: Gandhi Rd, near ratan pol, Old City, Tankshal, Khadia, Ahmedabad
Hours: 7:30 AM to 7 PM (Monday to Saturday), 7:30 AM to 5 PM (Sunday)
Gujarati Combo Thali price: ₹350
