Old Pune Food Walk: A Nostalgic Journey Through the City’s Culinary Heritage
Reported by Dhanashri Landge
Pune, 24th February 2025: Food lovers gathered for the much-anticipated Old Pune Food Walk on Sunday, celebrating Pune’s rich culinary heritage. Organized by Pune Heritage Walks in collaboration with Deccan Drifts, led by Randhir Jaya Naidu and supported by volunteer Rushabh Naresh Lalwani, the experience took participants on a flavorful journey through some of the city’s most iconic eateries, serving authentic Maharashtrian breakfast dishes and desserts.
Held on Sunday, 23rd February 2025, from 9:00 to 11:30 AM, the food walk showcased some of Pune’s most cherished traditional dishes. From the fiery and flavorful Misal to the wholesome Thalipeeth, the light yet satisfying Pohe and Sabudana Khichdi, and the indulgent Mastani, each dish reflected the city’s deep-rooted culinary legacy.
The Deccan Drifts group visited several iconic spots, including:
Vaidya Upahar Gruha
Established in 1910 by Raghunath Ramchandra Vaidya, this century-old eatery in Budhwar Peth is known for its unique take on the classic Maharashtrian dish, Misal. Unlike the usual spicy red curry, their signature Green Misal is made with a special blend of potato bhaji, matki usal (sprouts), and pohe, topped with a flavorful green curry. This distinctive curry—prepared using green chilies, coconut, garlic, ginger, coriander, green tomatoes, and tamarind—sets it apart from traditional versions.
Despite minor menu changes since the 1960s, Vaidya Upahar Gruha has retained its authentic charm, featuring wooden benches, vintage utensils, and the nostalgic aroma of freshly ground spices. The eatery operates from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, except on Saturdays and two weeks around Holi.
Aadya Amruttulya
Founded in 1924, this is Pune’s oldest tea shop, located at 528, Raviwar Peth, Sonya Maruti Chowk, Laxmi Road, Budhwar Peth. Established by Vishwanath Pannalal Ojha, who migrated from Rajasthan, it has been serving a signature masala tea blend made from Kerala and Assam tea leaves, combined with locally sourced milk and a special spice mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and other ingredients.
Over the years, Aadya Amruttulya has attracted many famous patrons, including Shammi Kapoor, Asha Bhosale, Lata Mangeshkar, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and Balasaheb Thackeray. The tea shop operates daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, also serving snacks like Upma, Poha, Misal, and Vada Pav. While the establishment has undergone renovations, it has preserved its traditional charm, remaining a beloved destination for tea lovers.
Dagadushet Halwai
In the 1880s, Dagadushet Gadve moved from Dharwad to Pune in search of better business opportunities. He soon became one of the city’s most renowned and successful sweet merchants. A dedicated Kushti (wrestling) practitioner, he also secretly funded India’s freedom movement.
In memory of his son, who tragically passed away during the plague outbreak of 1897, he built the famous Dagadushet Ganpati Mandir, now one of Pune’s most revered landmarks. His wife, Lakshmibai Gadve, played a significant role in helping traders resettle after the epidemic, which led to the street being named Laxmi Road in her honor.
Gujar Cold Drink House
Established in 1923, this was Pune’s first Mastani shop. Originally selling cold drinks, ice cream, and milkshakes, the store accidentally created the famous Mastani drink in the 1960s. One summer, the owner experimented by topping a milkshake with ice cream and dry fruits before serving it to customers. The delighted patrons exclaimed, “Masta aahe!” (meaning “It’s amazing!”), and thus, the drink was named Mastani, drawing an association with the legendary historical figure.
Poona Guest House
Started in 1935 by Nanasaheb Sarpotdar, a film producer who owned Aryan Film Studios near Sarasbaug, this establishment was created to provide comfortable lodging and homely meals for film artists struggling to find proper accommodation in Pune. Over time, it became a favorite spot for authentic Maharashtrian food, offering delicacies such as Thalipeeth, Kothimbir Vadi, Aloo Bhaji, and Dadpe Pohe.
Kaware Ice Cream
Founded in 1952, this shop revolutionized Pune’s dessert scene by introducing Softy Ice Cream, Falooda, and Sundae to the city.
Softy Ice Cream: Originating from America, this light and fluffy ice cream is aerated during the freezing process, giving it a unique texture.
Falooda: Originally from Iran, it was introduced to India by the Mughals and remains a beloved dessert.
Sundae: Another American favorite, this indulgent treat features ice cream topped with a variety of sauces and toppings.
A Celebration of Pune’s Culinary Heritage
Beyond just tasting these delectable dishes, participants also discovered the fascinating history, culture, and significance of each eatery, which have remained faithful to their traditional recipes for generations. Whether locals rediscovering their roots or visitors exploring Pune’s food culture for the first time, the Old Pune Food Walk proved to be a perfect blend of history, flavors, and nostalgia.
