Did you know that three generations of the Ambani family have been regulars at a restaurant that began as a humble eatery in 1963 in Mumbai? That’s Swati Snacks for you! What began as a small spot run by a single mother, Minakshi Jhaveri, serving homemade chaats and hand-churned ice creams, quickly became a hit in the city. Following its success, Swati Snacks expanded to Ahmedabad, becoming a beloved destination for homestyle Gujarati dishes and street food in both cities.
With a bigger menu, Swati Snacks quickly became a favourite of many, including renowned artist M.F. Husain, who frequented the restaurant for its sev puris, and tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who had a soft spot for the dahi batata puris!
While the restaurant stays true to its Gujarati roots, it has also embraced innovation to cater to changing tastes. One of its standout dishes is the Panki—a delicate rice pancake steamed in banana leaves. Introduced in 2000, it’s now so popular that the eatery serves over 600 plates of Panki, daily. Variations like Pudina Panki, Suva (dill) Panki, and Panki Uttapam make the menu even more exciting.
Along with Gujarati staples like patra, mung khichdi, dal dhokli, fada ni khichdi, and methi bajri rotli, you’ll find dabeli, vada pav, sev puri, dahi puri, and even falafel on the menu. Whether you’re in the mood for Gujarati comfort food or street food, Swati Snacks has something for everyone.
The charm of Swati Snacks lies not just in the food, but also in the warm, homely atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to indulge in both familiar and innovative dishes, all served with a touch of nostalgia and love. Furthermore, the inclusion in the Essence of Asia collection of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants is a testament to Swati Snacks' legacy.
So, the next time you crave healthy, tasty Gujarati dishes or even Indian street food, make sure to visit Swati Snacks for a wholesome experience that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Locations
Mumbai: Tardeo and Nariman Point
Ahmedabad: Law Garden and Ambli Road
Approx Cost: ₹500 for two
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