Is there any dessert more universally loved than ice cream? Every corner of the world has its own specialities and favourites, and a recent list from Taste Altas highlighted the 100 top spots that people should know. And among them was Mumbai’s gem, K Rustom and Co.. This legendary ice cream shop located in Churchgate, Mumbai holds the prestigious title of being the oldest ice cream parlour in the city. With a rich history spanning several decades, K Rustom has earned a reputation for serving signature ice cream sandwiches that have stood the test of time. Established in the heart of Mumbai, this beloved establishment continues to captivate locals and visitors alike with its unique flavours and old-world charm.
K Rustom was founded in 1953 by Mr Khodabux Rustom Irani, fondly known as K Rustom, who had a passion for creating delectable ice cream. The shop originally opened its doors as a shop selling everything from medicine to cotton wool but the family soon realised that their beach-adjacent location brought a lot of tourists and ice cream would be a popular attraction. From the very beginning, K Rustom was committed to crafting premium quality ice creams using traditional methods and the finest ingredients, setting the stage for its enduring success. The star of the show is their crispy wafers, sourced from Pune and Hyderabad and responsible for capturing the love of many generations.
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Over the years, K Rustom has managed to retain its timeless appeal and authentic ambience, drawing in generations of ice cream enthusiasts. The shop's simple yet elegant decor, reminiscent of a bygone era, has a charm that transports patrons back in time. K Rustom's menu boasts an array of distinctive flavours that have been cherished by patrons for decades. From evergreen classics like creamy vanilla, rich chocolate, and refreshing strawberry to unique offerings like rum and raisin, mango lassi, Choco almond crunch, Guava (Peru), Walnut Crunch, Coffee and Paan. each scoop represents a burst of delightful nostalgia and culinary craftsmanship.
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One of the key factors that have contributed to K Rustom's enduring popularity is its unwavering commitment to quality. The ice creams are made in-house using traditional recipes and methods, ensuring the flavours remain authentic and true to their heritage. Locally sourced ingredients, coupled with a passion for perfection, create a symphony of tastes that have won the hearts of countless patrons.
Although the passage of time has seen various changes in Mumbai's landscape, K Rustom has stood tall, weathering the storms and upheavals. In May 2022, the establishment went through a scare as they were asked to vacate the property over a suit filed in 1996 by the Cricket Club of India (CCI) regarding the rent, but Mumbai breathed a collective sigh of relief when it was overturned and K Rustoms continued business as usual. The parlour continues to be family-owned and operated, with the descendants of K Rustom ensuring that the legacy lives on. This commitment to continuity has allowed new generations to discover and appreciate the unique flavours and heritage of this iconic ice cream shop.
K Rustom, the oldest ice cream shop in Mumbai, is not merely a dessert stop; it is a living testament to the city's history and its love for timeless indulgences. As the years pass, K Rustom remains a cherished destination for those seeking a taste of the past, offering a delightful journey through flavours that evoke memories and emotions. The story of K Rustom is a reminder that some things are meant to last forever, and its place in Mumbai's heart is firmly etched as an enduring symbol of joy, tradition, and deliciousness.