Baba Ramdev Dhaba - a culinary trip to Rajasthan, sitting in Pune!

A bit tough to find, we reached the place in a group of 12 on a Sat evening. To our surprise the place was choc-a-block with people and vehicles! With around 60-70 people already in waiting, we were a bit dissapointed to have travelled more than 30km from our homes and see such a long queue. However, after a wait of 35-40 mins, we got a table, much to our relief. 






They have tables placed very close to each other, with hardly any space to move around. Lots of waiters  scurrying across serving aromatic yummy food. A very basic seating arrangement, a bit too messy to be frank. However, my expectations on this front were very high either.

The menu is a very elaborate one, complete with a huge variety of authentic Rajasthani fare to choose from. 





We went for a thali which included Rajwadi dal baati churma, chaas, lassi, baigan bharta, sev, gatte ki kadi and khicha papad. We also ordered masala khicha papad, gulab jamun and rabdi. What a treat! The baatis were served in a clay pot, brimming with desi ghee. The 'baatis' were half dipped in ghee and were served steaming hot. 

The dal itself was very flavorful and served in a little bucket. Churma was yummy and was perfectly sweetened. The air was filled with the aroma of desi ghee and it made us hungrier. The quantity was sufficient enough to be shared by two people. The pot had 4 large baatis. The gatte ki kadi was also very yummy. Lassi was way too thick in texture and sweetened over the top - a let down. Overall it was a very satisfying authentic meal, which made my taste buds very happy! 

Service is very quick and efficient.

Going by my experience of similar food until now in Pune, I can say this is the most authentic dal baati in town. Go there for the love of authentic dal baati! Don't expect too much from the ambiance point of view. It's a dhaba, which is always brimming with hungry people, dining and in waiting :)