Must-try eateries and local delicacies on the Mumbai-Lonavala route

Are you planning a trip from the thrumming chaos of Mumbai to the quiet hills of Lonavala by road? Apart from the beauties of the gorge, there is more that one would want to see whether they originate from here or even for the newcomers. This picturesque journey provides bountiful gastronomic items which can make your quest to the drive unforgettable. From historical roadside dhabas to tiny joints with delicious different local delicacies, this route wreaks a happy disaster for the followers of food and cuisines.

Expect nothing less than a gourmet treat as you make this trip. Imagine being parked at the corner sipping the piping hot tea in one hand while chomping the extra stuffing vada pav packed in the other at a make-shift stall or waddling in the enticing mince chikki bar or simply stepping into a dhaba where there are utensils made of mud and they have something called dahi misal pav.

What are some of the restaurants and the local foods that every tourist travelling on the Mumbai to Lonavala road should have on their map? We shall take into consideration the taste and the entertainment that made each stop worth it. But with all that said, let us build up some tension on those belts folks; get prepared to have a feast!

1. Sunny Da Dhaba: A classic stop for North Indian cuisine

The flavours change as you leave Mumbai and drive towards Lonavala and so do the landscapes. One of the most visited by travellers is Sunny Da Dhaba which is located near Khandala. This dhaba is preferred by many tourists for its heavy North Indian dishes. On their menu, there are numerous items but one cannot go wrong with butter chicken or dal makhani. Its rustic feel combined with a finger-licking meal offers an unforgettable experience while dining in this Dhaba.

• Cost for two: INR 700
• Timings: 11:00 am to 1:00 am

Sunny Da Dhaba | Credits: Sunny Da Dhaba

2. Ramakrishna Restaurant: A vegetarian's delight

A must-visit place on your list when in Lonavala if one likes vegetarian food is Ramakrishna Restaurant. Known for both South Indian and North Indian delicacies, this restaurant caters to all tastes. The dosas here are particularly popular, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with different chutneys and sambhar alongside them respectively. A pleasant ambience allows customers to make quick orders hence it’s ideal for family meals.

• Cost for two: INR 400
• Timings: 8:00 am to 11:30 pm

Ramakrishna Restaurant | Credits: Tripololo

3. German Bakery, Lonavala: A fusion of flavours

A place to head for something different is German Bakery located in Lonavala. The cafe is situated at a quiet corner and offers Indian as well as Continental dishes, accompanied by freshly baked items on display. It has a chic and cosy ambience, making it almost feel like being in Germany. The atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind while having delicious meals. The most popular items among the restaurant’s clientele are omelettes, pastries and coffee.

• Cost for two: INR 1300
• Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 am

German Bakery | Credits: Zomato

4. Lonavala's Famous Chikki: A sweet tradition

In Lonavala, you cannot afford to miss the chikki, a traditional Indian sweet made of jaggery and nuts. To get this delicacy, go to Maganlal Chikki located in Lonavala which is one of the oldest and most famous shops in town. Here, there are various types of chikkis including peanut, almond and cashew among others, all of them tastier than previous ones. Whether you are picking up some for yourself or as a present this confectionary item is a must-taste.

• Where to buy: Maganlal & Sons, Cooper's Fudges & Chikkis, and Frend's Chikki
• Pricing: ₹200-400

Chikki | Credits: Canva

5. Misal Pav: A spicy affair

Make sure that you try out misal pav if you are travelling on this route for Lonavala. It is an outstanding Maharashtrian dish with quite some kick. While several eateries on this way will offer it as they serve other local dishes, Dadanchi Tanduri Misal on the Mumbai-Pune highway is quite popular for its hot misal that may take your mouth minutes before regaining control over your taste buds. The dish comes along with pav (bread rolls) and is dressed with farsan (a crunchy snack), onions and lemon ideal for individuals who like it hot when eating.

• Where to buy: Buvachi Misal, Sathe Misal, Tirangi Rassa Misal, and Sriram Misal House
• Pricing: ₹200

Misal Pav | Credits: Canva

Conclusion

The Mumbai-Lonavala route is a journey in itself in which one can taste some of the cuisines of this region. Starting from the famous vada pavs in Mumbai to the local delicacy chikkis in Lonavala, every stop one makes along this journey has a history to narrate through the taste. Similar to this, these eating places have something for the soloists and for the families and friends.

The fun does not have to end when you reach Lonavala. When compared to the fascinating cuisines that you have come across on the journey, what else could be more blissful than lounging in The Hosteller Lonavala? As such is typical of a backpacker hostel, The Hosteller Lonavala is centrally located and surrounded by tall trees. The Hosteller Lonavala has a wonderful combination of a lively atmosphere, small nooks, and unique entertainment so that visitors who want to take a break after touring and dining out will find the hostel incredible. Just about anything you want—from making friends with other travellers to simply taking in the stunning views or enjoying absolute serenity—is available here at The Hosteller.