Share
Much like Mumbai, Parsi and Irani cafes have very much been a part of Pune’s cultural fabric. The city loves its bun maska and chai. One of the city’s most favourite outposts for Parsi food is Dorabjee and Sons that stands with grace in Pune’s camp area. The eatery traces its roots back to the late 19th century, a period when Pune was emerging as a significant cultural hub in Maharashtra. Dorabjee Sorabjee, a Parsi entrepreneur, founded the restaurant to cater to the British officers and residents in the area.
An establishment that initially started out as a small tea stall, quickly gained popularity for its delicious food and warm hospitality. Over time, it expanded into a full-fledged restaurant, serving wholesome meals featuring traditional Parsi dishes that were a hit among both the British and local patrons.
Photo Credit: Dorabjee & Sons / Instagram
The restaurant has been passed down through generations of the Dorabjee family, each adding their touch while preserving the original charm and authenticity. Today, the restaurant is run by Darius Dorabjee who is Sorabjee’s great grandson, the restaurant remains a family-run business, with the same commitment to quality and tradition that has possibly kept it thriving for over a century.
What Makes Dorabjee & Sons So Special?
Photo Credit: Dorabjee & Sons/ Instagram
The restaurant has retained its simplicity and old-world charm, with simple, no-frills décor that reflects its long history. The wooden furniture, vintage photographs on the walls, and a general sense of nostalgia make the dining experience special. The ambiance is relaxed and unpretentious, offering a stark contrast to the modern, trendy eateries that can be found all across Pune, today.
It’s a place where time seems to have stood still, allowing diners to enjoy the food in a way that the experience feels wholesome. The owner takes orders on the phone from his old, loyal clients who can’t use swiggy and zomato and allows them to pay when they are in the area. These warm gestures have kept people coming back to the eatery for years.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The restaurant has been serving Parsi food to Pune’s residents and visitors for over 140 years, making it one of the city’s oldest continuous eateries. Despite the passage of time, the restaurant has remained true to its roots. The ingredients used are fresh, and the recipes have been preserved with great care, ensuring that the flavours remain consistent with what patrons have come to expect over the years.
In an era where fast food and fusion cuisine dominate, Dorabjee & Sons stands as a proud custodian of Pune’s culinary traditions, offering a taste of history that has been lovingly preserved for future generations to enjoy.
What To Order At Dorabjee & Sons
Photo Credit: Dorabjee & Sons/ Instagram
Dorabjee & Sons has always served authentic Parsi cuisine, which is a blend of Persian and Indian culinary traditions. Parsi food is characterised by its unique use of spices, balance of sweet and sour flavours, and an emphasis on meat, particularly mutton and chicken. The menu at Dorabjee & Sons features a wide array of Parsi delicacies, many of which have been prepared using the same recipes handed down through generations. The menu has hardly changed over the years.
One of the most popular dishes here is the Mutton Dhansak, a quintessential Parsi dish made with mutton cooked in a rich lentil gravy, flavoured with spices and served with caramelised brown rice. The slow-cooked mutton is tender and flavourful, and the dish has the perfect balance of flavours. Another must-try is the Sali Boti, a dish where tender pieces of mutton cooked in a tomato-based gravy, topped with crispy potato sticks called sali. For those who prefer chicken, the Chicken Farcha, a Parsi-style fried chicken, is a popular choice.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
There’s also Patra Ni Machi, a dish where fish (usually pomfret) is marinated in a green chutney made of coconut, coriander, and mint, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection. In addition to these, Dorabjee and Sons also serves other Parsi favourites such as Kheema Pav (spiced minced meat with bread), Akuri (spiced scrambled eggs), and Lagan Nu Custard. The Biryani here is also very popular.
Price For Two At Dorabjee & Sons
The price for two at Dorabjee & Sons in Pune typically ranges between ₹800 to ₹1,200, depending on what you order. This includes a meal consisting of their signature Parsi dishes like Mutton Dhansak, Sali Boti, and Lagan Nu Custard. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the authentic flavours and generous portions.
