Hotel Mavala, Pune Solapur Road, Hadapsar – A true representation of Marathi heartland

The historic city of Pune is a confluence of several food cultures. Where else will you find that one section of the people absolutely love spicy food and another do want anything spicy. The onslaught of fancy food restaurants in cities and towns means that mostly we have to be eating mechanically prepared and served food. It tastes the same every place. But this one is different, the typical old school types. Let’s explore.

Location of Hotel Mavala

Located somewhat away from the main road but well marked on Google Maps. You can also ask for directions. Just a note that this restaurant is anything but flashy from the outside. You might almost miss it.

The menu at Hotel Mavala

Despite their advertising on the name itself that it is Veg & Non-Veg restaurant, once we open the menu, why do we have the feeing of a non-veg bias esp toward mutton. You will find the largest range of mutton dishes on the menu here. This is mutton lovers paradise. First thing you will notice is the thali page, where the Mavala Special Mutton thali is like a chef tasting menu. You will get mutton fry, mutton kheema, liver, mutton soup and goat intestines which is a delicacy. There is also a regular and special mutton thali. The flagship mutton thali is less than 500 rupees which is unbelievable. In the mutton main course, there are at least 20 varieties of mutton.

One interesting item on the menu is Kolhapuri Kale Mutton which is a dark curry make by roasting coconut and onions over a flame.

Chicken also gets similar treatment. There are two pages of veg dishes in the main course out of which bhindi masala and kaju masala is interesting. Prices are down to earth and portions are generous.

What to expect

Expect large crowds especially in the evening. Food is amazing and so is the service. But do expect some glitches during the rush hour. Great settings for a group meal.

Decor of this place is Maratha all the way, quite pleasing to the eye and sets the mood right. Light music in the background and the fragrance of amazing food. This place will surely want you to go back for more.

Most of the non veg dishes are spicy, so ask the waiter as to how much will be the spice levels you will need.

Parking is on the main road and will be a problem in the evening and weekends.