Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani is one of the richest men in the world. He is known for his vision and risk-taking abilities. Under his leadership, Reliance Industries is reaching new heights, dominating almost all sectors. But one thing we may not know about Ambani and his family is that they are big-time foodies. This was evident during Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding, where Nita Ambani personally travelled to famous sweet and snack shops and handpicked chefs for her son’s wedding. In interviews, Mukesh Ambani has often talked about his food habits and favourite snacks. But do you know about a 60-year-old Mumbai-based Gujarati snacks shop that is loved by the Ambani family and even M.F. Husain? Let’s learn more about this iconic snack shop.
The 110-square-foot snack shop was first opened its doors in the year 1963. Swati Snacks was founded by Minakshi Jhaveri, a single mother who wanted to earn some bucks for her children. The shop was started with just four tables and four items – all priced 4 annas. But Meenakshi would never had even thought that her small outlet will transformed into multi-outlet restaurant chain with a monthly turnover touching Rs 4 crore.
Swati Snacks has grown popular amongst a vibrant array of food lovers. Businessman Mukesh Ambani has revealed that three generations of his family, has been frequent enthusiasts of their weekly offerings. Famous artist M.F. Husain was known to uphold a Sunday evening tradition of feasting on Sev Puris while the melodic maestro Zakir Hussain cherished their delightful Dahi Batata Puris.
Deeply rooted in Gujarati cuisine, Swati Snacks offers a variety of menus that go beyond traditional expectations. The shop’s signature dish is panki – which is a delicate rice pancake steamed in a banana leaf. The dish which was introduced back in 2000, now sells approx. 600 plates daily. The shop also offers dishes like – pudina panki, suva (dill) panki, and panki uttapam.
Passed down through generations, Swati Snacks has been run by women. When Minakshi Jhaveri passed away in 1979, her daughter Asha took over the reins—despite not being skilled in the kitchen, she brought a breath of fresh air to the place. In 2000, the restaurant enjoyed a modern touch-up. Bright yellow plates and an open kitchen added vibrancy, without stripping away from its unique, original charm.
The restaurant has earned high praise and made it into the Essence of Asia collection hand-picked by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Esteemed Michelin-starred chefs like Ravinder Bhogal and Prateek Sadhu shower applause on this place. It even made international headlines when Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, was spotted savouring a vada pav there.
