Dadar, the hub of Mumbai's Marathi culture, is a place that is completely different from other parts of the city. From huge residential areas like the Dadar Parsi Colony, beautiful Dadar beach on the west that overlooks the sea link, flower market at the Dadar station and hodgepodge of high footfall at the Dadar station, Dadar brings out the old energy of the city.

This area is beautifully preserving some of the classic old temples, monuments and buildings that carry a whole different vibe from both, the South and North Mumbai.

Here we are taking you on a virtual restaurant tour to explore the best of Dadar's restaurant scene. Let's check out the best restaurants in Dadar!

1. Aaswad

The king of the Maharashtrian restaurant scene in Mumbai, Aaswad is a name that doesn't need an introduction. Located on the LJ road, this celebrated restaurant has won several accolades over the years to be the best Maharashtrian restaurant in all of Mumbai.

The décor and ambience have evolved over the years. From an air-conditioned dining space to fancy décor and comfortable seating, this restaurant has got everything that a typical family restaurant generally has, but a little better. The moment you step inside the restaurant, you'll be welcomed with a strong floral fragrance which is very typical of them. the staff members and their hospitality is just another level that makes your experience top-notch!

The food at Aaswad is all simple and home style. Pithala Bhakari, Kande Pohe, Matki Usal, Dalimbi Usal, Thali Peeth, Kothambir Vadi and Puran Poli are some of the bestsellers and no wonder they're the best. Even the simplest Poori Bhaji at Aaswad is a trip to the flavour town. Best part? Everything is pocket friendly. Don't try to miss their Puran Poli ice cream which is a signature dessert at Aaswad.

Price for two: ₹800 | Open with Google Maps

2. Mama Kane's Swacch Upahar Gruha

Largely populated by Marathis, Dadar west has many restaurants that have been serving pure vegetarian Maharashtrian food for years. One such name is Mama Kane's. Serving delicious and inexpensive vegetarian food to the locals for over a century, this legendary place takes you back to the old simple days. Humble, delicious and hearty- that's how the food a Mama Kane's can be best described. The ambience is not at all fancy and has home-like vibes which make this place even more special.

Their menu is humble as the restaurant looks with traditional Maharashtrian speciality dishes. The veg Thali that they serve is an absolute experience and each bite into it feels like a warm hug from grandma. This is one of the oldest establishments in Dadar and their veg Thali is a must-have! Also try their Puran Poli, Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji and Misal Pav which are loved by everyone.

Price for two: ₹200 | Open with Google Maps

3. Terttulia

If you are looking to have a good wine dinner date at a dainty place that is small yet brilliant in everything, then you are going to love Terttulia. Located a minute walk away from Shivaji Park, this place is known for its alcoholic beverages, especially the selected varieties of wine.

That's not it. The staff at Terttulia is extremely professional and their wine knowledge will elevate your wine dinner. Talking about the ambience, it is neat and sophisticated. The dim yellow lights make the place very romantic and the seating is comfortable.

The menu is continental with Pizzas being the most loved dish. Other than pizzas, we recommend you to try the Chicken Tapenade, Asparagus Risotto, Mushroom Ragout and Garlic Potatoes.

Price for two: ₹1200 | Open with Google Maps

4. Chaitanya

Located right behind Siddhivinayak Temple, Chaitanya is a small establishment that has its fans all across the city. Known for its delicious seafood, Chaitanya has been a legendary name for years. In a traditional Maharashtrian setup, this restaurant serves food that is super delicious and hygienic. The restaurant gives a sense of warmth with its interiors. It will make you feel like you're dining in a typical Marathi household.

Our recommendation from their menu is the Kolambi (Prawns) Thali, Prawns Koliwada, Fish curry and Crab lollipops. Once you have them, we bet you'll be in Maharashtrian culinary heaven.

Price for two: ₹700 | Open with Google Maps

5. Prakash Shakahari Upahar Gruha

Been to Dadar West and didn't try the amazing Misal and Sabudana Wada from Prakash? Then you did miss out on a lot. Prakash Shakahari Uphar Gruha, Located on Ranade Road is one of the oldest restaurants in Dadar west.

This eatery is known for serving generations and generations of families in all these years but it's hardly changed. The moment you step inside the restaurant, you're welcomed by this whiff of classic ol' school vibe which is unmatched. Simple walls and age-old wooden furniture, which is still in use, are some of the oldest exhibits at the place.

You will find typical Maharashtrian food items at this place. this quaint little eatery serves some of the most delicious Amrakhand, Dalimbi Usal, Dahi Misal, Peanut Chutney, Kothambir Wadi and Thali Peet that will make you go crazy with its simplicity and taste!

Price for two: ₹150 | Open with Google Maps

6. Jai Hind Lunch Home

With branches that are spread across the city, every Mumbaikar would have experienced the charm of Jai Hind at least once. It is known for serving amazing seafood Thali from the coastal regions of the state. Jai Hind serves some of the most delicious seafood dishes in Mumbai.

Compact seating arrangement, clean ambience and a typical Maharashtrian setup make this place one of the must-visit spots in the city. The staff is very friendly and they always love to cater to all your preferences.

Their Bombil (Bombay Duck) Thali is one of the bestsellers. Every seafood connoisseur must add this one to their checklist!

Price for two: ₹750 | Open with Google Maps

7. Purepur Kolhapur

Known to serve Assal Kolhapuri food in Mumbai, Purepur Kolhapur serves one of the best Maharashtrian Thali in Mumbai. If you love spicy Indian food then you gotta pay a visit to Purepur Kolhapur to relish some of the best dishes from the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra.

The ambience is exactly like that of a typical family restaurant. Wooden furniture, typical aroma of spices that linger around and the sweetest service staff. The people at this restaurant are very warm and they almost make us feel like we're eating at their own home.

Their Mutton Rassa Thali and Chicken Rassa Thali are absolute spice fair. They are some of the bestsellers of the restaurant.

Price for two: ₹500 | Open with Google Maps

8. Tamnak Thai

This lovely Thai restaurant on the Veer Sawarkar Marg is made for all Thai food lovers of the city. With a proper fine dining setup and good wines on the menu, this can be your next destination for a romantic Thai dinner date.

The ambience is modern and classy. Off white walls, yellow lights, huge paintings make the place look very elegant, warm and inviting. The table setup and glassware bring out the sophistication which makes this place perfect for a dinner with your special someone.

The menu displays some classics from Thai cuisine. Our favourites from the menu include Tamnak Thai, Pad Thai, Thai Green Curry, Tom Kha Gai and the most delicious Tom Yum Goong. Prices are a bit on a higher-end but with the ambience, service and quality of food, it is all worth every penny that you pay.

Price for two: ₹2000 | Open with Google Maps

9. Tanatan

A north Indian place with a quirky name, Tanatan has an ambience just how it sounds- quirky and vibrant. With the hobo-looking walls and yellow lights all around, this place looks magnificent and warm. The vibes are immaculate and perfect for brunch and even a special dinner with your special someone.

Their menu has amazing North Indian food varieties to choose from. Our top picks are the Paneer Makhani, Butter Chicken, Cheese Naan and Phirni. Tanatan also has a good drinks menu. So sip on some fancy cocktail of your choice and savour one of the best butter chicken of Mumbai! When are you planning to pay a visit?

Price for two: ₹2000 | Open with Google Maps

10. Grandmama's Cafe

Grandmama's Café is known for its good food, amazing beverages and interiors. It is a dainty café with everything aesthetic and beautiful. With calm colours and subtle music, this place is perfect for a solo date or even a good romantic date with someone special.

The salted caramel cheesecake at Grandmama's is what we recommend you to look forward to whenever you visit the next time. The salt from the caramel and the softest and the creamiest cheesecake are together a match made in heaven. For the love of desserts, you just can't miss this one for sure!

Price for two: ₹900 | Open with Google Maps

11. Apsara Ice Cream

Ever imagined a Pani Puri sorbet served inside real Puri? It is true! A legendary ice cream establishment Apsara at Dadar West serves mouthwatering Pani Puri sorbet.

A minute-long walk from Shivaji Park, Apsara is known for amazing ice cream flavours, sorbets and old-school ice cream making techniques. As you enter the parlour, a soft toasty aroma of freshly made waffle cones will sway by your nose and make you crave for it. Unlike other ice cream places, Apsara is a two-floored establishment that gives a bigger seating area. Vibes are calm and colourful with decorated walls and colourful seating.

The best time to visit is the evening when having your favourite flavour to go and sit on the Dadar beach and enjoy the sunset at its best. Wondering what flavours would be the best? Their watermelon sorbet, Pani Puri sorbet, Jambu Josh, Trippy Tadgola, Mango and Guava Glory(Served with a little sprinkle of red chilli powder) is the most loved flavours among the visitors.

Price for two: ₹200 | Open with Google Maps