We have shortlisted some of the best dhabas on the Mumbai-Pune route for you. By Karan Kaushik
Dhabas on the Mumbai-Pune Route for heavenly food
Sunny Da Dhaba
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Perhaps the most popular of all dhabas on the Mumbai-Pune route, Sunny Da Dhaba is known for its tempting Punjabi delicacies. From the classic paneer butter masala to the lesser-known Veg Norjani Handi, every dish here is simply yum. Located on the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, the dhaba dishes out incredible Punjabi and Maharashtrian fare. Must-try dishes include Paneer Banjara Handi, Chicken Apple Handi, Tawa Palak Lahsooni, Chicken Kolhapuri, and Dal Palakwali. Wash down your meals with a glass of their refreshing mango lassi.
Where: National Highway 4 Pune Road Near Karla, Lonavla, Maharashtra
Sheetal Da Dhaba
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Next on the list is Sheetal Da Dhaba. Most riders take a pit stop here to relish their famous Chicken Biryani. Over the past few years, they have gone on to become an entertainment hub from being just a highway dhaba. Expect groovy live music and entertainment sessions including magic shows on weekends. You’d simply love the vibe, thanks to their courteous staff and chilled-out atmosphere. When done savouring the biryani, cater to your sweet tooth with their mouthwatering Gajar ka Halwa. The dhaba is located on the old Mumbai-Pune Highway passing Lonavala just before the turn to Ekvira-Karla caves.
Where: Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Maval, Lonavla, Maharashtra
Sidhu Punjabi Dhaba
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This casual highway dhaba serves delectable biryani, kebabs, and other homestyle dishes in an open-air setting. There is a kid’s playing area as well. It’s one of the best places to pull over your car for a short break while driving back from Lonavala towards Pune on the old Pune-Mumbai Highway. Bestselling dishes include Palak Paneer, Sarson ka Saag, Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and their desi ghee jalebis. To beat the heat, have a glass of buttermilk. Fair warning: they are a bit pricey.
Where: NH-4, Old Mumbai Pune Highway, Near Karla Phata, Lonavla, Maharashtra
Bhajan Singh Da Dhaba
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Bhajan Singh Da Dhaba is located near the Somatane Toll Plaza. It’s nothing less than a paradise for those who love some meat. Their chicken and mutton dishes are superlative, making the dhaba a much sought-after option for regulars on the Mumbai-Pune route. Start your meal with their Chicken Achari Kebab or Chilly Chicken. For the main course, you can order the evergreen Butter Chicken and Mutton Rogan Josh. They could be a little slow at serving your order, thanks to the constant rush of travellers. You would love it here if you are a fan of 90s Bollywood music. They even have a karaoke system in place.
Where: Toll Plaza, Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Near Somatane Phata, Varsoli, Talegaon Dabhade, Maharashtra
Toni Daa Dhaba
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There was a time when taking a long drive to Toni Daa Dhaba used to be a regular weekend activity for both Mumbaikars and Punekars. The legendary highway dhaba is famous for serving unique dishes such as Quail Masala, Emu Tikka, and Duck Masala Handi. Most of their preparations are made using pure desi ghee, which lends the dishes their unmatched flavour and an irresistible aroma. Other popular items you may try are Zafrani Turkey, Chhole Masala, Chicken Banjara Masala, and Chicken Cheese Kasturi Kebabs.
Where: Gate No. 477, Mumbai-Pune Road, Kamshet, Talmaval, Naigaon, Maharashtra
Babbi Da Punjabi Dhaba
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This 24X7 Punjabi dhaba is all about good vibes and great food. It’s one of the few dhabas on the Mumbai-Pune route that serves liquor. (Don’t drink and drive!) They serve lip-smacking North Indian fare along with evergreen Marathi dishes. For starters, you can order Paneer Pakora or Aloo Chaat, both equally crispy and flavoursome. For the main course, try their signature Veg Bhuna, Mushroom Masala, Kolhapuri Mix Veg, Special Bhuna Chicken, and Kaju Curry. The bar menu is impressive with a wide array of beers, rums, vodkas, and whiskeys.
Where: Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Khadkale, Maharashtra
The Kinara Village Dhaba
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Located at Vasai Naka near Lonavala, The Kinara Village is great for families and large groups. The vibrant and beautifully decorated ambience will impress you the moment you enter the dhaba. They offer lovely outdoor seating. Popular dishes here include Chicken Malwani Handi, Kolhapuri Chicken, Chicken Gavran, Paneer Noorani Kebab, Veg Kasturi Masala, and Chicken Do Pyaaza. They also serve a nice range of refreshing mocktails. Do try their Gajar Ka Halwa and Cow Kharwas.
Where: Toll Plaza Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Vaksai Naka, Varsoli, Lonavla, Maharashtra
Shree Datta Snacks
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There’s always that one highway eatery that everyone swears by. For the regulars on the Mumbai-Pune route, Shree Datta Snacks is that eatery. Most patrons still make sure to stop here to grab a quick bite of Vada Pav or Misal. The plush eatery dishes out amazing Marathi snacks. From the classic Vatata Vada served with a tangy chutney to the wholesome Sabudana Vada to unique preparations like Kothimbir Vada, they have an impressive menu. Don’t miss the Vada Pav and Pohe. For dessert, you may try their Kharvas, which is best enjoyed with buttermilk or Kokum Sharbat.
Where: Opposite HP Petrol Pump, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, Palaspe Phata, Panvel, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
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