Dhabas: A Taste of India’s Roadside History
Dhabas are iconic roadside eateries that have been an essential part of Indian food culture for decades. Originating along the Grand Trunk Road during the early 20th century, dhabas were first set up to serve hot, homemade meals to truck drivers and travelers journeying long distances.
It’s not totally clear which is definitely the oldest dhaba in India, because “dhaba” is a loose concept (roadside eateries, family-run etc.), and many of them are old without well‑documented founding dates. But here are some of the contenders and one of the oldest known Kesar Da Dhaba was started in 1916 by Lt. Lala Kesar Mal and his wife Lt. Smt. Parvati, Kesar Dhaba was originally in the Sheikhpura region of Pakistan and after the partition in 1947, the Dhaba was shifted to Amritsar. A pure vegetarian dhaba, this joint is has a kitchen equivalent to the size of the dining area and is a place that’ll take back you in time. Famous personalities like Lala Lajpatrai, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi dined at the place back in the times and the legacy has continued. Their famous dal makhani is cooked for more than 12 hours overnight in a brass utensil over a slow flame to bring out all the flavour. All their tandoors and kitchen is equipped with mammoth old-school mud layered utensils which take you back in time.
Most dhabas were run by Punjabi families, especially after the Partition of India in 1947, bringing with them rich and hearty recipes like dal makhani, butter chicken, tandoori roti and lassi. Their food was slow-cooked, full of flavor, and always served with a warm smile.
Over time, these humble highway stops became popular among all kinds of people from college students on road trips to families looking for authentic, affordable food.
Even today, dhabas continue to thrive, offering a nostalgic, no-frills dining experience that celebrates India’s rustic roots and culinary heritage.
