Mumbai eatery celebrates legacy that drew Rajesh Khanna, Nargis

MUMBAI, June 15, 2026 — Pancham Puriwala, one of Mumbai’s oldest eateries, continues to operate more than 175 years after its founder first arrived in the city on a bullock cart and set up a small food stall that drew crowds for its puris and bhajis, sources say 

The eatery, located in Mumbai’s Fort district, has remained a culinary fixture from the late 1840s to the present day, serving generations of diners and attracting attention beyond the city’s bustling streets. Its pani-puri thali and traditional snacks became inherited favourites for many, including Bollywood luminaries such as Rajesh Khanna and Nargis Dutt, who frequented the establishment during their careers 

Pancham Puriwala’s enduring place in Mumbai food culture

Restaurant operators say Pancham Puriwala’s continued operation reflects the city’s deep food culture, with tourists, office workers, students and families among regular guests. “The puris and bhaji tastes connect people across generations,” said a sixth-generation family member overseeing daily operations, adding that the menu has remained rooted in tradition while adjusting subtly to modern tastes 

In the mid-20th century, the eatery’s simple fare drew not just locals but celebrities who appreciated its unpretentious setting. The restaurant’s proximity to Mumbai’s historic Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) helped make it a convenient stop for visitors and residents alike 

Preserving legacy amid modern Mumbai

Over the decades, the establishment expanded from its original stall into a modest but steady business that balances heritage with changing customer habits. Today, its staff prepare puris, bhajis, chutneys, and other classic items from recipes passed down through family lines.

Visitors comment that eating at Pancham Puriwala feels like stepping into a piece of the city’s culinary history, where flavours have endured while neighbourhoods around it have transformed. For many, the connection to past eras — and the stories of generations who dined here — remains a central part of its appeal.

More information about Indian cuisine and its regional diversity can be explored through Indian cuisine history and traditions.

Businesses monitoring hospitality expansion trends can also explore restaurant industry growth trends for 2026 to understand how regional food concepts are shaping dining markets.