Vitthal Kamat — Restaurant in Maharashtra

#PositiveReview Vitthal Kaamat - Kondhapuri.

I had stopped visiting Kamat during these past years because the Franchisees outside Pune had really let go in terms of quality and consistency. However today while passing Kondhapuri on my way to Sambhajinagar the jam packed parking lot grabbed my attention.

Restrooms are located conveniently right in the front side and were exceptionally spic and span. The cleanliness and spotless interiors were a common theme throughout the restaurant. Entering the restaurant we have a feeling that either this is a brand new place or has just been renovated.

There are signboards stating self service everywhere however they were taking table side orders. The staff was prompt and courteous. The prices seemed to be jacked up in comparison to my last visit, but then again it was a long time ago. I ordered their USP Vitthal Wada and Solkadhi. Solkadhi was the standard prepackaged version which we get everywhere in Pune. Vitthal Wada was scrumptious as always. Piping hot wada smothered in cold sweet garlicky curd. They had toned down the garlic flavour though. A sprinkle of Kanda Lasoon masala right on top made the dish complete. They have expanded their menu to include twice as many options of Maharashtrian and South Indian snacks as well as beverages. All in all would definitely visit again whenever I am travelling on the highway. Perfect rest stop with clean and hygienic washrooms when you are travelling with...

This place is located at a good point as over the Pune- Nagar stretch!

I have visited this place quite a few times , mostly they provide fresh food but this time experience was different!😐

I have given some less stars because of inconsistency in food quality and service! This time I ordered Medu wada sambar which I felt was not up to the mark, which discouraged me to try anything else!

Medu wada should be "hot and crispy" while serving but one served in a dish was softened, maybe due to the item from the old preparation batch!

I feel it as a lack of service, especially when someone is visiting it as THE VITTHAL KAMAT restaurant!

Positive points are: ✌️

1. plenty of space for parking
2. Clean washrooms and basins!
3. They provide RO water for drinking Which I feel very good about! ( Though they sell some packaged drinking water it's not like either you drink dirty water or buy a mineral water bottle)

Hoping for improvement...

This is one of the Vithal Kamat chain of restaurants, that dot the highways of Maharashtra. A good pit-stop for weary travelers, these are quite popular for snacks, lunch, dinner or a simple 'chai' at any other time of the day.

Though they are not open 24 hours, then are open from around 7 am till around 10 pm and serve a standard fare of South Indian, Maharashtrian and North Indian dishes.

What's good? They are conveniently located at good locations along the highway. Good parking space, with a covered parking for a few cars, in case it is raining. Decent seating. Standard menu, with quick service. Thali meals are good for lunch and pakodas for evening snacks.

What't not great? Can get crowded at meal times. Flies.. lots of them! The tin-roof overhead can get hot during summers. Kids play area can be better maintained.

All-in-all, a decent rest and food stop for...