Pune, a city of rich history, a thriving industrial metropolis, and renowned as an education hub, has drawn countless students and young professionals over the years. Among its main landmarks, Cafe Goodluck stands out as one of the city’s oldest and most beloved places. Established in the year 1935, the cafe has become a favourite with friends and people of all ages. Cafe Goodluck started its journey with a humble menu, serving just Irani chai, bun maska, and a handful of simple yet satisfying snacks. Over time, it expanded its menu with much-loved dishes like bun omelette, keema-pav, egg bhurji and many more.
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Bollywood legends like Dev Anand and Rajesh Khanna were known to frequent the Cafe Goodluck during the peak of their careers, adding a touch of glamour to its historic charm. Among modern day celebrities, Indian actress Radhika Apte, has also enjoyed her time at this iconic Cafe Goodluck. The mindboggling mix of cinematic history and diverse food options makes it a special place to visit.
History And Origin
Cafe Goodluck was established in 1935, but documents found by the current owner, Kasim Yakshi, suggest that the place may date back to 1924. Located on Fergusson College Road in the Deccan Gymkhana area, it was started by Haji Hussain Ali Yakshi and is deemed to have been Pune’s first garden restaurant and oldest Irani cafe. Haji Hussain Ali Yakshi passed away in 1989, after which his brother Kasim started handling operations.
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Kasim’s family moved to India after a famine hit Iran. Haji Hussain Ali trained in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and also worked in Delhi for a bit. He discovered that Mumbai was welcoming Iranians, and so he moved to the city and worked there for a few months. However, Mumbai’s weather was humid, and he was advised to move to a drier place since he had breathing problems. And so, Pune became his next home. After moving to the city, he married an Iranian and then established Cafe Goodluck.
Why Is Cafe Goodluck So Famous?
When Cafe Goodluck was started, the place served only tea, bun maska, and a few other snacks. As time went by, eggs, chicken, and mutton were added to the menu. The cafe became known for serving meat dishes in an area dominated by vegetarians. During his time, Yakshi also introduced South Indian dishes to be able to meet the expectations of a wider variety of people. However, steaming cups of chai and bun maska seem to be the standard order of all the regulars that visit.
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Patrons can be seen dipping the soft buns into their milky chai. Plates of bun omelette, keema-pav and egg bhurji make their way to other tables. Bheja masala is also on the menu for those who are more adventurous. Popular desserts include caramel pudding and kulfi. Cafe Goodluck also serves a dish named chicken chilli, which is a spicy curry and is different from the Indian Chinese version that most people are used to.
While people visit at all times of the day, the place has gone on to become an iconic breakfast spot over the years. Cafe Goodluck welcomes visitors from 7 am to 11:30pm, making this iconic cafe a perfect spot for both early morning breakfast and late-night snacks.
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For a typical meal for two, you can expect to spend around Rs 600, which covers a wide range of delectable options from their menu. The affordability combined with the cafe’s rich history and vibrant ambiance, ensures a satisfying experience for the local Punekars and all who visit.
Today, Cafe Goodluck is a beloved spot in Pune, its rich history and mix of traditional and delicious dishes keep the Pune-kars and outside visitors coming back. With its famous Irani chai and Bollywood connections, this iconic cafe provides a special taste of Pune's culture.