Mumbai Has A 90-Year-Old Eatery That Still Serves Traditional 12 Handis Over Coal

For over 90 years, Surti 12 Handi has been a beacon of tradition and flavour in Mumbai’s Bohri Mohalla. This legendary eatery, which dates back to the 1930s, is the only place in the city that continues to serve authentic 12 handi dishes, prepared using age-old techniques. Cooked over coal for eight to ten hours, these delicacies offer a taste of history, transporting food lovers back to the Mughal era when slow-cooked meals were the norm.

A Culinary Heritage Passed Down For Four Generations At Surti 12 Handi

 

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Surti 12 Handi is not just a restaurant; it is a legacy. This establishment has been passed down through four generations, with the founder’s great-grandson now upholding the family tradition. The cooking process remains unchanged, staying true to the original method of using coal instead of gas. Each dish is meticulously prepared overnight, ensuring a depth of flavour that modern cooking techniques often fail to replicate.

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Surti 12 Handi’s signature 12 handi dish is a symphony of rich, slow-cooked meats, including boneless beef and mutton, combined with thick, flavourful gravies. The mutton nihari is a star attraction, alongside other delicacies such as mutton nalli nihari and mutton pulao. Whether you prefer a dry or slightly gravy-laden preparation, there’s something for every palate at this iconic eatery.

The Only Spot In Mumbai Serving 12 Handis Year-Round

While many traditional establishments serve special dishes only during Ramadan, Surti 12 Handi is a year-round destination for those craving an authentic taste of history. Surti 12 Handi in Bohri Mohalla, the eatery has built a loyal following among Mumbaikars and visitors alike. The 12 Handis experience is incomplete without pairing these rich, slow-cooked delights with fresh, hot rotis that enhance the burst of flavours in every bite.

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Beyond being a food haven, Surti 12 Handi is an irreplaceable piece of Mumbai’s culinary heritage. It is a must-visit for food enthusiasts who appreciate the art of slow cooking and the depth of flavour that only time can create. If you’re in the city, make sure to drop by and savour a taste of history—one that has been preserved for nearly a century.

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