Be it the Delhi Gymkhana, the Willingdon Sports Club in Mumbai or The Bengal Club in Kolkata, clubs across India have been known for serving cuisine that has appealed to their members for years. Inspired by London’s gentlemen's clubs, these spaces have become sanctuaries for recreation and also excuses to eat good food. Although only members have access, dishes served at these clubs have permeated kitchens across the country. We list five iconic dishes from five well-known clubs in India:
Eggs Kejriwal from the Willingdon Sports Club, Mumbai
Eggs Kejriwal was created in the 60s by Mr. Devi Prasad Kejriwal, who was a businessman. Mr. Kejriwal was unable to eat eggs at home and hence enjoyed a breakfast of toast with fried egg, a slice of cheese and green chillies at the club, which serves the dish as one of its signatures to this day.
Masala Omelette from The Bengal Club, Kolkata
Established in 1827, The Bengal Club in Kolkata is India’s oldest. It was considered the unofficial headquarters of the Raj back when Kolkata was the capital of the British Empire in India. In the 19th century, the club employed a French cook as its head chef and was known for popularising masala omelette.
Mutton frankie from The Bandra Gymkhana, Mumbai
Founded in 1935, The Bandra Gymkhana is home to a cafe, an air-conditioned bar, and an air-conditioned fine-dining restaurant. Having taken inspiration from one of Mumbai’s favourite street foods, the club has added mutton frankie (tender mutton and sliced onions rolled in a thin roti) to its menu.
Yorkshire pudding from Madras Club, Chennai
Home to two restaurants and a bakery, Chennai’s Madras Club is as old as 1832 and home to a bakery and two restaurants. Among the food served here is the signature yorkshire pudding, which uses flour, eggs and milk. A great accompaniment to a Sunday roast, the yorkshire pudding is not easily found elsewhere in India.
Club sandwich from Delhi Gymkhana Club, New Delhi
At its current address since the 1930s, the Delhi Gymkhana Club has been a place for the affluent to congregate. A membership here is considered the ultimate social status, and the food is heavily talked about. The club sandwich from the club’s kitchen is popular, and not just because it’s a namesake.