A Chef's Beloved Spot
In a recent podcast, celebrated chef Vikas Khanna, known for his global culinary achievements and journey from Amritsar to Michelin-starred success, shared
a deeply personal insight into his favorite dining destination within India. While he has conquered the culinary world with establishments like Junoon and the Bib Gourmand awarded Bungalow in New York, his heart truly sings for a specific restaurant in Mumbai when it comes to savoring genuine Indian comfort food. He emphatically declared Soam, a restaurant nestled in South Bombay, as his ultimate choice. For Khanna, this establishment isn't just about food; it's a profound reminder of the inherent strength and brilliance of Indian home cooking techniques. He believes these traditional methods are supreme and require no external validation, especially not to impress Western palates. His dining experience at Soam was so exceptional that it solidified his appreciation for the authentic flavors and culinary wisdom passed down through generations in India.
The Soul of Soam
Soam stands as a beloved family-run restaurant, a true culinary cornerstone located at Sadguru Sadan, Babulnath Road, near the iconic Babulnath Temple in Grant Road, Mumbai. Its extensive menu gracefully spans a variety of beloved Indian culinary traditions, including Gujarati specialties, vibrant street food, South Indian classics, hearty North Indian fare, delightful desserts, and refreshing beverages. The restaurant has earned widespread acclaim for its mastery of regional delicacies, particularly its signature Dal Dhokli, a dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of home-style cooking. Soam is dedicated to preserving and celebrating traditional cooking techniques, ensuring that every dish served offers an authentic taste of India's rich gastronomic heritage. This commitment to tradition makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an genuine Indian dining experience that resonates with warmth and flavor.
Must-Try Soam Delights
At Soam, a culinary adventure awaits with a selection of dishes that highlight the restaurant's dedication to authentic Indian flavors. Among the unmissable treats is the Malai Malpua, a decadent dessert featuring deep-fried pancakes that are luxuriously soaked in or topped with a rich, creamy malai, offering a sweet indulgence. For a refreshing experience, Ganne Ka Juice, a quintessential summer beverage made from freshly extracted sugarcane, is a perfect choice, enhanced with a hint of black salt, mint, and lemon for a cooling effect. The Biscuit Bhakri offers a taste of rustic India, a thicker, more robust flatbread crafted from grains like jowar or bajra, best enjoyed with accompaniments. The Shrikhand Puri is another delightful combination, pairing crisp, deep-fried pooris with a smooth, sweetened curd infused with cardamom and saffron. Soam also proudly presents a comprehensive array of authentic Gujarati dishes, including favorites like Dhokla and Fafda, alongside cherished desserts such as Basundi and Jalebi. And of course, the star of their regional offerings is the renowned Dal Dhokli, a comforting one-pot meal where tender whole wheat dough pieces are simmered in a flavorful lentil curry, tempered with aromatic spices and herbs, creating a truly satisfying and traditional experience.
