Aaswad in Dadar: A Culinary Gem of Maharashtrian Food with a Rich Legacy in Mumbai

Nestled in the bustling streets of Dadar, Mumbai, Aaswad is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cherished culinary institution. Celebrated for its delectable Maharashtrian fare, Aaswad has been delighting food lovers for decades, offering an authentic taste of regional cuisine that has become a local legend. From its humble beginnings to its current acclaim, Aaswad is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Indian flavours. Local Samosa headed over to witness the history and to taste the legacy food served here.

A Storied Legacy

Founded over 50 years ago by Suryakant S. Sarjoshi, Aaswad began as a modest eatery with a simple vision: to serve high-quality Maharashtrian food with a personal touch. Sarjoshi’s dedication to authentic flavours and home-style cooking quickly earned the restaurant a devoted following. His commitment to excellence was not only evident in the food but also in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that made Aaswad a beloved dining spot.

The restaurant’s journey is a reflection of Mumbai's vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional recipes with a passionate approach to food. Over the years, Aaswad has become synonymous with exceptional Maharashtrian cuisine, celebrated for its rich, comforting dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage. The wait time, on any given day, ranges between 20 minutes to an hour.

A Traditional Culinary Experience

Aaswad’s menu is a treasure trove of Maharashtrian delicacies. The restaurant is renowned for its authentic Misal Pav, a spicy and tangy dish served with crunchy farsan and fluffy pav. Another standout is the Sabudana Khichdi, a delicious and wholesome meal made from Sabudana, peanuts, and spices. These dishes, along with Aaswad’s signature thalis, offer a true taste of Maharashtra’s diverse and flavorful cuisine.

We ordered their Special Meal Thali which also comes in a box takeaway option. You get to pick Puri, Chapati or Bhakri as your bread. It comes with Masale Bhaat (a type of spiced rice) the popular Maharashtrian style Sukhi Batata Bhaaji along with Kurdai (a style of papad) and Kurma Sabzi. The sides include Mini Batata Vada and Mini Kothimbir Vadi. You can choose a dessert from options like Gulab Jamun, Dudhi Halwa and Modak. We, of course, opted for the Modak which was served with a tiny bowl of warm ghee. The food was authentic, non-greasy and filling. The Modaks and Mini Kothimbir Vadi were exceptionally good. To finish it all off, we got Sol Kadhi which was a good balance of kokum aagal, coconut milk and spices.

The restaurant’s dedication to maintaining the traditional essence of Maharashtrian cooking is evident in every dish. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and time-honoured recipes ensure that each meal is both authentic and memorable.

Recognition, Ambience and Hospitality

Aaswad’s excellence extends beyond its food, earning prestigious accolades, including from the Hub Global Awards in London for its dedication to Maharashtrian culinary traditions. What truly distinguishes Aaswad is its warm hospitality. The friendly service and inviting atmosphere reflect the restaurant's commitment to creating a memorable dining experience. The decor of the restaurant is a reflection of the heritage and culture. Embroidery hoops with Paithani and a Maharashtrian nath hang from the ceiling. Saraswati symbols, Naths and Jiretop turbans are used across the restaurant. The colours, theme and interiors are an ode to Maharahstrian traditions. Even their cutlery holder, tissue box and wooden bill box reflect the Maharashtrian heritage with Koyaris and Marathi phrases on them.

With its rich history, high standards, and global recognition, Aaswad in Dadar remains a top destination for authentic Maharashtrian cuisine, blending tradition with exceptional service.

Where: Sanskruti Building Gadkari Chauk, 4, Lady Jamshedji Rd, opp. Shiv Sena Bhavan, Dadar West, Mumbai