From Lazy Sunday to Bhutanese Bliss: My First Ema Datshi
Sundays at home can be quite an experience! My cook, Bishnu Bhaiya, takes the day off, and my house help, Gowri, often pulls a mysterious disappearing act. This adds a dash of chaos to the day, but it also gives me the chance to step into the kitchen and make something delicious—a task I absolutely love. After all, you can never go wrong with the food you make yourself! Cooking for myself is always a joy, but I like to keep things simple. I avoid lengthy recipes that require hours in the kitchen when hunger is knocking and stomach growls are about to protest. Plus, I feel that a long cooking process kills your appetite! Throughout the week, I save food reels that catch my eye, focusing on three essential criteria: the dish must look irresistible, be quick to prepare, and use ingredients that are easy to find. One reel that captivated me featured Ema Datshi, a classic Bhutanese dish said to be Deepika Padukone's favourite and Bhutan's national dish. The idea of a cheesy curry was simply too tempting to resist! With just a few ingredients—green chillies, garlic, cheese, salt, pepper, and optional onion and bell pepper—I prepared this delightful dish. You can also add zucchini or tomatoes for an extra twist. Serve it with your choice of rice, and you’ll experience creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick—absolutely magical and mouthwatering! In just fifteen minutes, I had a plateful of bliss. If you ever feel lazy or are in charge of Sunday cooking, this recipe is a must-try! There are plenty of reels out there, or you can message/call me for the details. Until my next kitchen masterpiece, happy cooking! Please note: Namak Swada-Anusaar and Chilli Shamta-Anusaar.
Rubal Saluja |
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Bobby Bar & Restaurant, Agonda: Retro Vibes, Great Drinks, and Even Better People
The Best Discoveries Are Unexpected! That’s exactly what Bobby Bar & Restaurant was for us—it’s a little retro gold mine. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much, but once you step inside, it’s like walking into a time capsule from the 70s. The vibe is cozy, intimate, and just the kind of place you want to relax in after a busy day. The real star of the show here, though, is Bobby, the owner. He’s incredibly warm and welcoming, making you feel like you’re being hosted by an old friend. He whipped up some amazing cocktails for us, and the best part? You can talk to him about anything and it’s so much fun interacting with Bobby and the other people there—from science to movies, music to your day. The atmosphere is brimming with laughter, positivity, and warmth, with a friendly crowd eager to adjust and make room for you. The bar really picks up after 10 pm, and the energy is fantastic. The drinks are amazing, and the best part? They won’t burn a hole in your pocket. My personal favourite cocktails were Bobby Special and Old Man Passion—Bobby’s Special is a refreshing mix of Hurrack or Urrack (aged Feni, a cashew-based spirit also called jungle juice), bubbly Limca, a dash of chili salt, fresh lemon, and a generous splash of ice. Simple ingredients, yet bursting with flavor! It’s a unique local specialty you won’t find everywhere. For whiskey lovers, Old Man Passion is a must try—it’s a unique drink that combines a dash of salt and tangy lemon with a slight sweetness of caramel and sugar, all balanced by a subtle hint of chocolate that lingers on your palate. I’m so glad we found this spot. It’s a gem with a lot of heart, and I can’t wait to go back. If you’re ever in the Agonda Beach Raad and want an authentic, laid-back experience, this place is a must-visit!
Rubal Saluja |
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Bharawan vs. Brothers Dhaba: Amritsar’s Culinary Legacy on a Plate
Two Dhabas. One Legacy. A Story of Flavour in Amritsar. In Amritsar, food isn’t just a meal — it’s part of the story. Every bite of chole, every freshly puffed kulcha from the tandoor, tells you something about the city and its people. Back in 1912, just a short walk from the Golden Temple, Bharawan Da Dhaba was born — a humble eatery started by Bishan Singh, feeding pilgrims and locals with comforting home-style Punjabi food. As time passed, the next generation took over and the creative differences gave rise to Brothers Dhaba, right next door. Not a rivalry — just two flavors of the same legacy. Bharawan Da Dhaba – This is where tradition lives. Their Chole Kulche is pure soul food.?Spicy, earthy chole — slow-cooked in rich masalas — served with kulchas that are crisp outside, soft inside, and brushed with ghee that melts into every bite. Add some chilled raita, & you're set.?Just one bite and you’re smiling — the kind of food that makes you pause & go in for another spoonful without thinking. Brothers Dhaba – This place brings the same Punjabi soul with a twist. Their Kadhi Chawal? Feels like something straight out of your home kitchen.? Smooth, tangy kadhi over hot, fluffy rice, topped with desi ghee and served with crunchy onions.? And that Rajma Chawal —Rajma so soft it almost melts, in a thick, buttery gravy that’s clearly been slow-cooked with care.?Poured generously over steaming rice — it’s the kind of meal that makes you stop talking and just enjoy.?It tastes like home — in the best way. Both sit near Town Hall, Amritsar.Locals joke: “Bade bhai ka Brothers, chhote bhai ka Bharawan.” Same family. Same roots. Different flavours. So... which one’s better?You’ll end up loving both. We gave our heart to Brothers and soul to Bhrahwan. Pro Tip: Order the thali from Bharawan. Add extra onions. Soak your kulcha deep in that chole.?And don’t you dare skip the tall, chilled glass of lassi. Save little space? (Okay, make some extra space) — have the Kadhi Chawal from Brothers.?Trust me — food orgasm is real.
Rubal Saluja |
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Nayab Hotel, Hyderabad: Where Biryani Meets Culinary Legacy
When @sid_aamir —who has already explored the likes of Pista House, Paradise, Shadab, Shah Ghouse, & Meridian—asked me where they could truly taste the soul of Hyderabad, I didn’t have to think twice. The answer was simple: Nayab Hotel. While Hyderabad is packed with amazing biryani joints, @hotel_nayaab offers more than just biryani—it’s a gateway to authentic Hyderabadi cuisine. Established in 1986 and located near the iconic Charminar, Nayab Hotel is a window to culinary heritage. Walking into Nayab is like stepping into a time capsule. The first thing you notice is the massive vessel of Paya Soup at the entrance. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly cooked biryani, and the lively chatter of diners. It’s chaotic yet magical—a sensory overload in the best way possible. The menu offers a dizzying array of options, but Aamir settled on the Mutton Fry with Rumali Roti & Biryani. The Biryani: This isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. The fragrant layers of perfectly cooked rice, tender meat, & aromatic spices come together in perfect harmony. It was juicy, and the flavors were bursting. Mutton Fry: Though the meat was slightly dry, it was packed with rich, bold flavors. It's best enjoyed as a snack, as it might not be the ideal accompaniment to roti. Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a chilled Campa Cola for that nostalgic, old-school vibe. Though I’m a on veg diet :), this is a firsthand account from Aamir, who couldn’t stop raving about the food. Things to Keep in Mind- Crowds: It’s always packed, but the staff manages the rush with efficiency. Parking: There’s none. Either take a cab or be prepared for a parking hunt. Nayab Hotel is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience that immerses you in the essence of Hyderabad.
Rubal Saluja |
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