Ram Ashraya — Restaurant in Mumbai

It was a saturday evening visit at around 6pm. I went with so much confidence that this is not a time for dinner and I'll definitely get a place immediately. But no!! You can always safely assume that anytime in the weekend, there will be a crowd 😅

Ambience: They have retained the originality and haven't gone into adding decors. You can see the photos of gods adorning the wall. The photos brought in that nostalgic feel about the ones which we have in our home that has been passed on since generations.

Food: There wasn't a physical menu card handed out to me. I don't even know if such a thing exists there. You can find the menu painted with colourful chalk on a black wall. There weren't any mention of prices though. But i was sure, even if we eat to our heart's content, the bill will not burn a hole in our pocket.

I decided to have my favourite, "podi idly" for the first course. Podi is as important to any South Indian as sambar and they got it perfect here. Not too spicy and not too fine, it was in the perfect texture and taste. Generously applied with a little bit of ghee on top, it was served with a tiny cup of sambar and God knows where they got it, the tiniest cup of chutney! Since i wanted to savour most of the idly as is, the portion of sides were sufficient.

Coming to the next course, i decided to have "buns poori" which is nothing but Mangalore buns. I remember having it during my work time at Bangalore 6 years ago. Soft and a little bit stretchy, the taste took me back in time.

Coming to the next course, i decided to try their "ghee podi dosa". One can never get enough of podi. Can they!? Not too big in size, it came crisp with the same portions of chutney and sambar. Tastefully made!!

Being an authentic Tamil guy, decided to wash all these with a piping tumbler of filter coffee. Served in the authentic davara-tumbler, the coffee was brilliant and aromatic. Just the way i expected it to be, with the right quantity of sugar, not too much, letting me taste the flavour of the coffee and served at an apt temperature such that, till the last sip it is hot.

Unable to contain my excitement on seeing the badam halwa which is smartly kept at the cash counter, i bought a small box to myself.

Service: The service is very quick and one need not spend more than 30-40 minutes in the restaurant. (from the time you get a seat of course!!!😅)

The satisfaction of having got to eat at one of the legendary eateries in Mumbai, i left the restaurant with a...

Located in the heart of Matunga, Ram Ashraya is a cherished spot for those seeking authentic South Indian comfort food. Known for its simple yet flavorful offerings, this no-frills restaurant has been a favorite for decades, especially among locals and college students.

Ambiance:

The ambiance at Ram Ashraya is unpretentious, with basic wooden seating and a casual vibe. It's a traditional South Indian eatery with a small, cozy setup that is always bustling with activity. While the decor is minimal, the focus is clearly on the food, and it’s evident that regulars come here for the culinary experience rather than the setting. The charm lies in its simplicity and the old-school feel.

Menu:

The menu offers a wide range of South Indian delicacies, from dosas and idlis to vadas and uttapams. Every dish is crafted with authenticity, and the flavors are consistently satisfying. Their dosas, especially the Mysore masala dosa, are crispy and generously stuffed with a tangy chutney. The idli sambhar is soft and light, paired perfectly with a spicy and aromatic sambhar. For something unique, their Rava dosa is a must-try, offering a crisp texture and delicious flavor.

Don’t forget to pair your meal with a traditional South Indian coffee, which is served in a small tumbler, offering a strong and rich taste that’s the perfect finish to your meal.

Service:

The service is quick and efficient, with staff members who are courteous despite the place often being packed. Since it's a small and busy spot, there might be a slight wait during peak hours, but the food is well worth it. The staff ensures that the dishes arrive hot and fresh, maintaining quality and consistency.

Overall:

Ram Ashraya is a hidden gem for anyone craving an authentic South Indian meal in Mumbai. It’s a place that doesn’t rely on frills or fancy decor, but instead, focuses on delivering delicious, homemade-style food that’s rich in tradition and flavor. If you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying meal, this is the perfect spot.

Highly recommended for lovers of South Indian cuisine, and particularly for those seeking a quick yet...

Ram Ashraya Matunga Mumbai South Indian Thali Service Restaurant Ram Ashraya is a hidden gem in Matunga, Mumbai, serving delicious South Indian thalis that are sure to delight your taste buds. This unassuming restaurant has been a local favorite for years, and for good reason.

Ambiance The restaurant's interior is simple yet cozy, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The traditional decor and classic ambiance add to the authentic feel of the place.

Food The thali is the star of the show here, and Ram Ashraya's offering is nothing short of spectacular. The meal typically includes a variety of dishes such as sambar, rasam, avial, poriyal, and a selection of chutneys, all served with steaming hot rice and crispy papadum. Each component is carefully prepared and presented, showcasing the rich flavors and textures of South Indian cuisine.

Service The staff at Ram Ashraya are friendly and attentive, always happy to answer questions about the menu and offer recommendations. The service is prompt and efficient, ensuring that your meal is served hot and fresh.

Value for Money Ram Ashraya offers excellent value for money, with prices starting from around ₹120-180 per person for a thali meal. Given the quality and quantity of food, it's a steal.

Tips Try the special thalis, which often feature seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Don't miss the opportunity to try their signature dishes, such as the idli, dosa, or vada. Try Hot Mysuru Pak Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially during peak hours.

Overall Ram Ashraya is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience authentic South Indian cuisine in Mumbai. With its delicious food, warm service, and excellent value for money, it's a restaurant that will leave you feeling satisfied and eager to return. The attention to detail in the preparation of each dish and the friendly service make it a standout in the city's culinary scene.

Recommended by myself is Hot Mysore Pak one of the best I had in entire life. Rating:...