Food Nostalgia; A Culinary Journey through time

Back in the 1970s, while immersed in the vibrant city of Trivandrum, I discovered a hidden gem – a Gujarati Restaurant in Pazhavangadi. This culinary haven was renowned for its small, piping hot purees paired with a subtly sweet curry. The ambience was always bustling, with eager customers patiently awaiting a seat for at least half an hour. During my stay, this eatery became my preferred choice, leaving me with fond memories of delectable meals.

Fast forward to 1972 – 73, my sojourn in Alleppey introduced me to the Popular Bakery, strategically located opposite the Boat jetty. This charming spot soon became a regular haunt for evening snacks, with my friend Govindan often accompanying me. Babu, a friendly face at the bakery, would delight us with a dish comprising, bread and green peas masala with eggs perfectly scrambled on it. The flavours were exquisite, prompting weekly visits to savour this special creation.

Upon my arrival in Calcutta in 1974, Chung Wah, the venerable Chinese Restaurant opposite Hindustan Building on CR avenue, captured my culinary affection. Known for serving the finest Chinese cuisine of its time, their dry and crispy Chilly Chicken was an unrivalled delight. Even in the 80s, dining at Chung Wah with Maya and Hema, who shared our enthusiasm for their food, was a cherished tradition. I have heard that the restaurant continues to thrive, preserving the flavours of yesteryears.

In late 70s, another entrancing addition to the Kolkata food scene was Vineet on Theatre Road, a delightful vegetarian restaurant nestled in the basement of the IOCL building. Accompanied by my brother Unnikrishnan and our little ones, we frequented this establishment for their irresistible Navratan Masala with Butter Nan. Today, Vineet remains a significant culinary landmark, preserving its legacy as an essential food destination.

Upon relocating to Chennai, Southern Spices at Taj Coromandel became our go-to spot for delightful South Indian cuisine. The flavours are unparalleled, making our dinners a delightful experience.

Our love for authentic Kerala cuisine found its haven in Ente Keralam, located in the Poes garden area of Chennai. The food here is not just a meal; It’s a journey into luscious and delicious Kerala flavours.

Despite the myriad of food options in Kolkata and Chennai, our hearts continue to gravitate towards the cherished establishments mentioned above. These culinary landmarks have become a part of our personal history, creating a tapestry of memories woven with the threads of exquisite flavours and shared moments.