Priyal Dholakia (Assistant Editor)
Gujarati thali is an authentic platter from the state of Gujarat. It contains a wide assortment of dishes and is a complete meal by itself. The thali is unique because it contains a holistic mix of whole grains, pulses, vegetables, milk, and nuts. As a result, it is a wholesome and balanced diet in its own right. Moreover, the dishes in a Gujarati thali cater to all tastes: sweet, spicy, and tangy. This makes it the ideal combination of taste and health served together. In addition, a traditional Gujarati thali is served on copperware. This practice holds a lot of Ayurvedic significance. Eating food on a copper plate has many health benefits. It can boost metabolism and aid digestion, among many other things. Typically, a Gujarati thali will include the following:
- A dal or kadhi
- Rice or khichdi
- One green sabzi
- One gourd sabzi
- One yoghurt dish
- One or two sweets
- One or two farsans
- One pulse-based sabzi
- Bhakri/puri/roti/paratha
- And buttermilk, of course!
- Accompaniments include salad, pickles, and papads.
The best part? These servings are unlimited! Yes, you can enjoy as many servings as you like until you satisfy your appetite.
When it comes to enjoying Gujarati thali in Vadodara, the city has ample eatery options for you to choose from! What makes the city stand out is its fine balance between culture and cosmopolitanism. The ‘City of Culture,’ as it is fondly called, strikes a chord with modern times while also preserving its cultural roots. Hence, when it comes to Gujarati thali offerings, you can rest assured that this city serves the best. In Vadodara, you will find restaurants serving authentic Gujarati thalis, so you can relish the real taste of the land. If you want to savour the best Gujarati thali in Vadodara, here are our top recommendations:
1. Mandap
Situated in the heart of the city, Mandap is hands-down the best thali restaurant in Vadodara. Its ambience is remarkable as well as reminiscent of the ancient folk culture of Gujarat. The restaurant has mandaps (small tent-like seats) where you can eat, as its name suggests. The hospitality of the staff is also top-notch.
Pro tip: A lot of visitors frequent this place, especially on weekends and during festivals. Prebooking your table will help you avoid the misery of waiting in long lines!
Average cost (for two): INR 1,000 (approx.)
Timings: 11:45 am to 2:45 pm and 7:45 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: Hotel Express Towers, Vishwas Colony, RC Dutt Rd., Alkapuri, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007.
2. Sasumaa
Like Mandap, Sasumaa is also nestled in the city’s prime locale, Alkapuri. It is a heaven for culinary enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience in the city. Its meticulously crafted menu is enough to delight even the most discerning souls. And what’s more, Sasumaa will grant you a heavenly feast at the most pocket-friendly rates. So, if you want to savour the best of flavours while also going easy on your wallet, Sasumaa is the place to be!
Average cost (for two): INR 400 (approx.)
Timings: 11:30 am to 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: 1/2 Gokulesh Complex, Ivory Terrace, RC Dutt Rd., near Alkapuri, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007
3. Govinda’s
Govinda’s is an ISKCON restaurant in Vadodara that started in 2010. It is the first and only fully spiritually-themed Gujarati restaurant in the city. Govinda’s follows the practice of “bhog” to sanctify its food. That is, the food is first offered to God before being served to customers. This practice makes it stand out, especially among its believers and devotees. Moreover, the food here is cooked without any onions or garlic. So, if you are on the lookout for Jain Gujarati thali, you must stop by here! Also, due to the large seating capacity, the restaurant can accommodate many people at once. Hence, you also need not worry about spending time waiting!
Pro tip: Govinda’s is housed within the ISKCON Temple Campus in Vadodara. Do not forget to visit the magnificent temple if you happen to go by there!
Average cost (for two): INR 700 (approx.)
Timings: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: ISKCON Temple, Hare Krishna Land, Gotri Rd., Vadodara, Gujarat 390021
4. Rasthal
Rasthal emerges as one of the most prominent names in the city for savouring Gujarati thali. The food served here is warm and tasty, and all its natural flavours are retained. The menu is also made to appeal to all kinds of tastes and interests. Consider visiting here for a novel dining experience and culinary delight. The pricing of the food is also decent, with good quality and service.
Average cost (for two): INR 1,000 (approx.)
Timings: 11:00 am to 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm
Address: 1st Floor, Bhagwandas Chamber, RC Dutt Rd., opposite Circuit House, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007.
5. Kansar
Kansar is also one of the top names when it comes to thali restaurants in Vadodara. It is a well-known eatery for Gujarati food in the city. In Kansar, you will explore a range of flavours and indulge in a variety of savoury delights. Its proximity to the Vadodara Railway Junction makes it preferable for tourists. In addition to the delicacies, its friendly staff and hospitality will impress you.
Average cost (for two): INR 600 (approx.)
Timings: 11:00 am to 3:15 pm and 7:00 am to 10:15 pm
Address: Unique Trade Centre, 101 Station Road, opposite Hotel Surya Lane, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001.
Make sure to head to at least one of these restaurants on your food trail in Vadodara. And be ready to experience a symphony of flavours you have never tried before. Bon Apetit!
Be sure to check our lists of Top Vegetarian Restaurants in other cities such as Guwahati, Kolkata and many more!
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