Parsi food: All about its history and various mouth-watering dishes

During the 17th Century, Persians migrated from Iran to different parts of the world. Reportedly, the majority of the migrated Persians settled in the west coast of India and Karachi in Pakistan. In India, Parsis lived on the northern side of Mumbai and some parts of Bangalore. There is a sizable population of Parsis in Pune and some parts of Hyderabad and Chennai, too. 

Influence of Parsi food on Indian Palate 

Reportedly, Indians started falling in love with berry pulao, bun maska, and many other Parsi dishes. According to reports, before the introduction of Chinese and Italian cuisine in Mumbai, the Parsi cuisine used to rule the toast. Reportedly, numerous Irani cafes were set-up that served authentic Parsi food, which soon became a part of the Indian cuisine. Mawa cake, bun maska, berry pulao, and keema pao are some of the loved Parsi food items by Indians. Today, Parsi food is an important part of the Indian palate, especially because of its inclusion of indigenous ingredients. The cuisine has adopted local spices and ingredients to invent new dishes. 

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Parsi cuisine in Mumbai 

Parsi cuisine is very famous in cities like Mumbai and Pune. Here is a list of restaurants serving the best Parsi cuisine in Mumbai. Have a look at the restaurants serving scrumptious Parsi food in the city. 

A. Kyani & Co., Marine Lines

Founded in 1904 by Mr. Khodram Marezaban, Kyani is one of the leading cafes in Mumbai. Located near Marine Drive, the cafe is famous among locals for its wholesome breakfast. The owners have successfully managed to retain the old world charm and beauty of the cafe even today. Apparently, the interiors of the cafe have been the same for more than ten decades. 

Address: Jermahal Estate, 657, Jss Rd, Tak Wadi, Lohar Chawl, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400002

B. Cafe Universal, Fort 

Situated amid the quaint architecture of Colaba, this cafe is famous for its grand entrance and four grand doorways. Cafe Universal has a mesmerising interior, with the huge paintings hanging on the walls to glass bottles clanging at the windows. The cafe is famous for its authentic Parsi cuisine in Mumbai.  

Address: 299, Shahid Bhagat Singh Rd, opp. Geo Chem Laboratories, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

C. Britannia & Co 

Britannia & Co is one of the oldest Parsi restaurants in Mumbai. The cafe is famous for its welcoming and jovial host- Mr. Boman Kohinoor. The interior of the cafe takes the visitor back to the medieval times. The cafe is famous for serving the best Parsi food in the town. 

Address: Wakefield House, 16, 11, Sport Rd, opp. New Custom House, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400038

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