Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Annapurna Bhoj

A man has to eat to keep body and soul together. Which is why, while meandering around Old Delhi the other day, I was on the look-out for a place where I could rest my weary legs and treat my grumbling tummy.


I was in Fatehpuri in search of a Sindhi restaurant. But there was no sign of anything Sindhi there – barring the Karachi halwa that can be found at any halwai’s shop. So I was thinking dark thoughts about the friend who had sent me there while I looked for an eatery.


That was when I suddenly remembered Annapurna Bhoj. I had had eaten a thali there some years ago and enjoyed every morsel of it. So I hot-footed it to Church Mission Road, off Fatehpuri.


Many years ago, there was a famous little eatery called Soni Bhojanalaya. The Soni family was known for the tasty vegetarian food that it served in its little eatery. But as the restaurant grew, so did the family. Finally, one branch of the family moved out and started its own little place. They called it Annapurna Bhoj. These days, it’s run by two brothers – Rajeev and Sanjeev Soni. One brother takes care of the Delhi eatery, the other of its Haridwar branch.



Since I had fond memories of their thali, I decided that I’d go for an encore. I asked them to pack three thalis for me, even though my stomach was by then growling like a wounded bear. You can ask for both rice and roti, but I opted for the chapattis because rice would have meant carrying a heavier load. Then, with this heavenly-smelling bag, I took the metro back to New Delhi.


My friends were all waiting there with what I presume was bated breath. The thalis were unpacked – to reveal several soft rotis, moong dal, a dry vegetable dish of carrots and peas, potatoes in a light gravy, saag-paneer and kheer.


The food was truly delectable. Cooked with just a few spices, it was like well-prepared home-made food. The moong dal was very light and had been tempered with a dollop of some heavenly ghee and cumin seeds. The vegetable dishes were delicious. And the kheer at the end of the meal was like ambrosia – cooked with just the right amount of sugar.


A thali costs Rs 40, or Rs 45 if you want a ghee ka tadka in your daal. You can have as many rotis as you want with your thali, but an extra bowl of vegetables or kheer comes for an extra Rs 5.


This was such a great meal that I quite forgot about my friend who had sent me off on a wild goose chase. In fact, by the end of the meal, I was feeling pretty benevolent towards him. After all, if it hadn’t been for him, I wouldn’t have renewed my friendship with the Soni family’s incredible thalis.

21 comments:

Hill Goat said...

I am so very happy that you have revived the blog. And suddenly, also happilly, I see there is a string of posts to go through. I will savour them a few each day, lest I am too stuffed to enjoy them. I have finished till barfi-lassi today (which I have had many a time after some poori-bhaji at the opposite stall) and will start with Moti Meatwallah tomorrow. Great going, chief. Keep it up.

Btw, Ramzaan is on. And I shall be visiting Jama area twice every week (with new set of friends or alone). Any suggestions for Haleem in the area, boss?

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
rahul verma said...

Hill Goat (i like the name, by the way), try Bundu Halimwalah in Gali Kababian. That's the galli that leads to Karim's. There's another good place for halim -- and that's behind Meena Bazar on the steps of Jama Masjid. If you can, try out a a restaurant called Purani Dilli in Zakir Nagar (next to the Jama Masjid there). I remember the halim there was rather good.

Happy to know you are enjoying the posts. do le me know if you come across a good eatery somewhere.

8:36 PM

eggwall said...

Hi Rahul,

I grew up in old Delhi, and new a lot of these places, reading your blog reminded me of Multani Dhanda, Farashkhana etc which I knew. Nostalgia at its best.

The Moth Kachori I ate first time was at Kutub Road corner of Sadar Bazar 'Sarai' in 1958 or so. I thought it was extinct by now.
So....it is not. Thank you.

One cool place to eat Bedmis is at Gopal Corner, Kamla nagar. Place is on the right, when you go from Shakti Nagar chowk towards University, say 200 yards from Shakti nagar Chowk.

It is a great service you are doing, getting up soooo early in the day. Lovely, keep it up!

rahul verma said...

Dear Narendra,

I enjoyed reading your comment. I found it nostalgic too, that you were were growing up somewhere there. There is a moth corner in Farashkhana too. This is near the Fatehpuri entrance to Farashkhana.

I have eaten and written about Gopal's bedmis. But after you reminded me about it I put the piece up on this blog. Do keep reading and sending your comments.

Rahul

thandoo said...

'Soni Bhojnalaya'-brings back so many memories from the days when my summer vacation meant a trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh. I know-but every cloud...Even though it has been more than 20 years I can still remember the garam phulka's and the best cucumber raita that was ever made. And to think, I stumbled upon your blog while looking for good biryani spots in Delhi. Thank you and may your arteries never clog;)

Unknown said...

दिल्ली का प्रसिद्ध
सोनी भोजनालय
161, कुचा घासीराम (फतेहपुरी)
दिल्ली -110006
मे वर्षो से लगातार चल रहा है
सान्धय टाइम्स मे भी सोनी भोजनालय की तारीफ की है

oakleyses said...

louis vuitton outlet online, nike air max, michael kors outlet online, longchamp outlet online, kate spade handbags, jordan shoes, true religion outlet, michael kors outlet online, gucci handbags, nike air max, coach purses, coach outlet, polo ralph lauren outlet, tory burch outlet, true religion, oakley sunglasses, oakley vault, kate spade outlet online, chanel handbags, tiffany jewelry, ray ban outlet, michael kors outlet online, coach outlet, ray ban sunglasses, christian louboutin shoes, prada outlet, longchamp handbags, louis vuitton handbags, prada handbags, nike free, longchamp outlet, tiffany and co jewelry, polo ralph lauren, louis vuitton outlet, christian louboutin outlet, michael kors outlet online, burberry outlet online, louis vuitton, burberry outlet online, coach outlet store online, red bottom shoes, nike shoes, cheap oakley sunglasses, christian louboutin, michael kors outlet, louis vuitton outlet, michael kors outlet store

oakleyses said...

wedding dresses, instyler ionic styler, mcm handbags, jimmy choo shoes, uggs outlet, uggs on sale, herve leger, canada goose outlet, babyliss pro, ugg, valentino shoes, canada goose outlet, nfl jerseys, soccer jerseys, ugg soldes, beats headphones, nike huarache, reebok shoes, mac cosmetics, p90x workout, vans outlet, marc jacobs outlet, canada goose, chi flat iron, mont blanc pens, insanity workout, lululemon outlet, nike trainers, celine handbags, ghd, birkin bag, asics shoes, longchamp, giuseppe zanotti, roshe run, rolex watches, ugg boots, north face jackets, canada goose outlet, abercrombie and fitch, new balance outlet, soccer shoes, north face outlet, ferragamo shoes, bottega veneta, hollister, ugg outlet

oakleyses said...

moncler, timberland shoes, hollister, louis vuitton canada, toms outlet, juicy couture outlet, louboutin, juicy couture outlet, thomas sabo uk, nike air max, converse, baseball bats, canada goose pas cher, ugg, canada goose, canada goose uk, moncler, supra shoes, ray ban, oakley, pandora jewelry, moncler, replica watches, links of london uk, hollister canada, hollister clothing, iphone 6 case, moncler, pandora charms, canada goose, parajumpers outlet, lancel, gucci, ralph lauren, swarovski uk, montre femme, pandora uk, air max, converse shoes, swarovski jewelry, karen millen, moncler, vans, uggs canada, moncler outlet, coach outlet, wedding dress, moncler

oakleyses said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Foodsanta said...

Such a wonderful blog. Thanks for sharing and keep us updated regarding various food stalls which serves delicious food.
Food Delivery in Lucknow

garima said...



The girls here with us would never call you once your booking is over. This is one of the reasons why we here at the house ofHi Profile Escorts in Gurgaon have earned ourselves a great reputation and a goodwill that is surely unmatchable. Check our other Services...
Russian Call Girls in Gurgaon
Call Girls in Gurgaon
Escorts Service in Gurgaon
Russian Escorts in Gurgaon
Escorts Service in Gurgaon




Dr. Aman said...

Looking to make waves on Spotify? Why not buy Spotify streams to boost your tracks' visibility and popularity? Purchasing streams can help propel your music to new heights, reaching a broader audience. With increased streams, your songs gain credibility and stand out in a competitive market. Ensure you choose a reliable service provider to guarantee authentic streams from real users. Investing in Spotify streams is a strategic move to accelerate your music career's growth and success. Increase your chances of being discovered by investing in this proven promotion tactic. Drive more streams and improve your music's ranking with this targeted approach. Invest in your music's success today by purchasing Spotify streams and watch your audience grow. Start building momentum for your music by buying Spotify streams now.
https://www.spotifyfame.com/

Nursing Profession in Kuwait said...

Looking to grow your Twitch channel quickly? Consider buying instant Twitch followers for an immediate boost. With this service, you can expand your audience base rapidly, increasing your visibility and credibility as a streamer. Say goodbye to slow growth and hello to a thriving Twitch community. Buying instant followers ensures instant engagement from real viewers who enjoy your content. Enhance your chances of getting discovered by new viewers and gaining traction in the streaming world. Don't miss out on this opportunity to accelerate your Twitch journey. Invest in quality promotion that delivers instant results and helps you stand out among the competition. Elevate your streaming career today with instant Twitch followers!
https://twitchviral.com/

Kerrie Timpson said...

Ready to make your YouTube presence permanent? Elevate your channel with our 'buy permanent YouTube views' service. Gain lasting credibility, increase visibility, and attract a dedicated audience for your videos. Don't settle for temporary boosts – invest in permanent views and watch your content's impact endure. Our reliable service ensures genuine, long-term engagement from real viewers. With sustained view counts, your videos gain authority and continue to attract new viewers over time. Join successful creators who've witnessed their channels thrive with our permanent view solution. Invest in your YouTube journey today and ensure lasting success for your content. Take control of your channel's destiny and watch it grow steadily with our proven service.
https://sites.google.com/site/buyytviewindia/

Aboulay Thomas said...

In India's bustling cities, amidst the vibrant culture, a quiet revolution is underway: silk surgery. Combining ancient techniques with modern innovation, skilled artisans delicately weave strands of silk into the fabric of cosmetic enhancement. From subtle rejuvenation to transformative beauty, this intricate procedure offers a silk-smooth path to self-confidence. Embraced by both locals and global visitors, India's silk surgery centers have become sanctuaries of refinement and renewal. With meticulous attention to detail, surgeons sculpt dreams into reality, crafting exquisite contours and graceful lines. Each procedure is a testament to India's rich heritage of craftsmanship and its forward-thinking approach to beauty. Step into a world where silk meets surgery, and emerge adorned with the elegance of tradition and the allure of tomorrow.
https://medium.com/@pojagupta/silk-eye-surgery-elita-860c70c593ad

Claire Divas said...

Unlock the confidence behind every smile with Smile Pro Eye Surgery. Our advanced procedure ensures not just clearer vision, but brighter days ahead. Say goodbye to glasses and contacts and hello to a world of clarity. Experience the joy of seeing the world anew, with every glance filled with clarity and brightness. Let your eyes tell the story of your newfound freedom. With Smile Pro, embrace life's moments with clarity and confidence. See the beauty around you with sharper focus and a brighter perspective. Trust Smile Pro Eye Surgery for a vision transformation that leaves you smiling from ear to ear.
https://smileproeyesurgery.medium.com/smile-pro-eye-surgery-in-delhi-fbafc721a9ce

Sweet Peas and Saffron said...

Discover the ultimate solution for your eye concerns with Smile Pro Eye Surgery in Delhi. Our state-of-the-art procedures offer unparalleled results, tailored to your unique needs. Bid farewell to glasses or contact lenses as our skilled surgeons correct vision imperfections with precision and care. Experience the freedom of clear vision and enhanced confidence in every aspect of your life. With advanced technology and a commitment to safety, we ensure a comfortable and successful surgical experience. Say hello to a brighter future with sharper vision and renewed vitality. Trust Smile Pro for unparalleled expertise and exceptional outcomes in eye surgery. Book your consultation today and embark on a journey to clearer, brighter eyes.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/smile-pro-eye-surgery-delhi-romila-chaudhary-y5imc/

Nursing Career In UK said...

Looking to turbocharge your YouTube channel's growth? Look no further! Buy Fast YouTube Subscribers and witness your subscriber count skyrocket in no time. Our lightning-fast service delivers real subscribers quickly, giving your channel an instant boost. Say goodbye to waiting for organic growth and hello to rapid expansion. With our efficient and reliable service, you'll see results almost instantly. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your channel to new heights with a surge of subscribers. Take the fast track to YouTube success and buy fast subscribers today!
https://www.theweek.in/news/biz-tech/2022/07/07/buy-youtube-views-and-grow-your-business-in-2022.html

sdaff said...

Looking to amplify your YouTube presence authentically? Look no further than our service to Buy Genuine YouTube Subscribers. Our platform offers a reliable solution to bolster your subscriber count with real, engaged users. Unlike other services, we prioritize authenticity, ensuring that every subscriber you gain is genuine and active. By investing in genuine subscribers, you not only increase your numbers but also enhance your channel's credibility and trustworthiness. With our tailored packages, you can customize your subscriber growth strategy to suit your needs and budget. Experience organic channel growth and heightened viewer engagement as you attract a loyal audience genuinely interested in your content. Don't settle for artificial solutions that risk your channel's integrity; choose authenticity and buy genuine YouTube subscribers today to unlock the full potential of your channel.
https://www.aninews.in/news/business/business/viral-promotions-the-company-that-has-created-stars-out-of-youtubers20230328182117/