Aaditya Thackeray’s confession about never visiting Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay has left Mumbai’s food lovers surprised. These two eateries are institutions in the city’s culinary scene, serving generations with their signature dishes. While Thackeray has enjoyed their food at friends’ homes, he has never stepped inside either restaurant. His revelation has sparked conversations about how even the most well-known Mumbaikars might miss out on the city’s most beloved experiences.
Swati Snacks, known for its fresh, home-style Gujarati dishes, has been a favorite of food enthusiasts for years. Its panki, fada ni khichdi, and handvo have won loyal customers who swear by the flavors. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, on the other hand, is an experience in itself. Tucked away in South Mumbai, this place serves an elaborate Gujarati thali that is often considered one of the best in India. For someone as deeply connected to Mumbai as Thackeray, skipping these two iconic spots seems almost unimaginable to locals.
In the interview with Chef Suvir Saran, Thackeray admitted that he has explored many of Mumbai’s lesser-known food joints but never found the time to visit these celebrated eateries. His love for street food, from vada pav to pav bhaji, is well documented, yet these two classics have somehow eluded him. He mentioned that he has often enjoyed food from Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay at gatherings, thanks to friends who swear by their flavors. Still, the idea of sitting down at these restaurants and experiencing their atmosphere firsthand remains on his to-do list.
Mumbai’s food scene thrives on nostalgia, and places like Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay hold memories for many. Families return to these spots generation after generation, making them more than just restaurants. They are a part of the city’s culture. For many, Thackeray’s revelation is a reminder of how even locals can sometimes overlook the places that define their own city’s identity.
Thackeray’s political journey has kept him busy, making it easy to miss out on some of Mumbai’s food gems. His involvement in environmental and urban development projects has taken precedence over leisurely restaurant visits. However, after this interview, many are hoping he will finally make time to visit these iconic spots and experience them as thousands of Mumbaikars do.
His confession has also sparked friendly debates on social media about which classic Mumbai eateries deserve a visit. While Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay remain favorites, others have suggested that he should also try places like Café Madras, Britannia & Co., and Aaswad to get the full taste of Mumbai’s diverse culinary offerings. Food lovers have taken this moment to share their own must-visit lists, making it clear that Mumbai’s love for its iconic eateries is as strong as ever.
Thackeray’s revelation serves as a reminder that even in a city as fast-paced as Mumbai, there’s always something new to discover—or in this case, something old but deeply cherished. Whether or not he makes a visit soon, his confession has certainly reignited appreciation for these legendary establishments. For those who have yet to experience Swati Snacks or Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, perhaps it’s time to take a page from this conversation and plan a visit before realizing, years later, that they’ve missed out on something truly special.
Thackeray’s revelation has also highlighted how Mumbai’s evolving food culture continues to balance the old and the new. While iconic eateries like Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay remain timeless, the city is also witnessing a surge in modern dining experiences. From experimental fusion dishes to international cuisines, food enthusiasts now have an endless list of options. Yet, despite this constant evolution, the charm of traditional, family-run establishments continues to hold a special place in the hearts of locals.
For many Mumbaikars, visiting these eateries is more than just about food—it’s about reliving memories. Swati Snacks has been a go-to spot for decades, often becoming a favorite for those who grew up enjoying their signature dishes. Similarly, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay has been serving its famous thali for generations, offering a sense of comfort and tradition in every meal. The nostalgia attached to these places is something that keeps people coming back, even as new restaurants emerge across the city.
Interestingly, Thackeray’s admission has sparked discussions about the places politicians, celebrities, and public figures frequent—or, in this case, don’t. While many might assume that well-known personalities have explored every corner of the city, moments like this reveal that even they can have blind spots when it comes to Mumbai’s cultural landmarks. His revelation has encouraged food lovers to share their own lists of places they’ve yet to visit, proving that even lifelong residents still have new experiences waiting for them.
Despite his packed schedule, Thackeray has often been vocal about his love for Mumbai’s food culture, particularly its street food. He has championed initiatives to preserve and promote local vendors, recognizing the role they play in shaping the city’s identity. His latest confession, however, has led many to wonder if he will now make an effort to visit these classic spots. Perhaps his next meal at Swati Snacks or Shree Thaker Bhojanalay will be a public event, capturing the curiosity of those who were surprised by his admission.
Mumbai’s dining scene thrives on its diversity, blending heritage with modern influences. While trendy restaurants and cafes continue to gain popularity, traditional establishments like these serve as a reminder of the city’s rich culinary history. Thackeray’s unintentional spotlight on Swati Snacks and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay has, in a way, reinforced their significance. Whether he visits them soon or not, his revelation has certainly brought renewed attention to these timeless food institutions.