Curly Tales

These 4 Legendary Pre-Independence Coffeehouses In India Are A Must-Visit

Ankita Mazumdar
Pre-Independence Coffeehouses

The culture of coffeehouses in India began way before India gained independence. Intellectual conversations, gossip, political strategies, and more such intriguing things were discussed over a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Even significant personalities like Rabindranath Tagore and Subhas Chandra Bose visited these pre-Independence coffeehouses of India to immerse themselves in the strong aroma of coffee and munch on small bites. Below are some of the Indian coffeehouses running before 1947 that should be on your bucket list.

4 Coffeehouses In India Running Since Pre-Independence Days

1. Mavalli Tiffin Room In Bengaluru

Established in the year 1924, Mavalli Tiffin Room is fondly adored by all for serving yummy South Indian cuisine and delicious coffee at pocket-friendly rates. It was started by three brothers, Parameshwara Maiya, Ganappaya Maiya and Yagnanarayana Maiya. It is popularly known as MTR. They have popular stories of using semolina instead of rice during World War II’s shortage of rice supplies. This is how their iconic rava idli came into existence! Their best-selling filter coffee in silver tumblers and bowls is still a classic.

Where: 14, Lal Bagh Main Rd, Doddamavalli, Sudhama Nagar, Bengaluru
Timings: 6:30 AM –11 AM, 12:30 PM– 8:30 PM, closed on Mondays
Cost For Two: ₹250

2. Flury’s In Kolkata

Started by a Swiss couple, Joseph and Frieda Flury, in 1927, it is a luxurious tearoom in the heart of Kolkata. Here, you can indulge in a scrumptious English breakfast along with their yummy coffee. Their checkered floors and simple decor with a dainty chandelier are a perfect call back to old-world charm. You can’t miss their iconic rum balls, which are loved by all of Flury’s fans. Also, the legendary Raj Kapoor and Satyajit Ray frequently visited this pre-Independence coffeehouse in India!

Where: 18, Park Street Area, Kolkata
Timings: 8 AM – 10:30 PM
Cost For Two: ₹1000

3. United Coffee House In Delhi

This pre-independence coffeehouse in India opened its doors to the public in 1942. It has elements of Victorian architecture, a heavy chandelier adorning the ceilings and a fine dining arrangement. Soon, it became a go-to spot for the riches and intellectuals of Delhi. Over the years, United Coffee House has been refurbished to maintain its charm and still has ample footfall for its European and Indian cuisine. Even after all these years, people go gaga over their coffee!

Where: Rajiv Chowk, E-15, Block E, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Timings: 10 AM – 11:45 PM
Cost For Two: ₹4500

4. Indian Coffee House In Kolkata

This is the oldest coffeehouse in Kolkata, dating back to 1876. Originally known as Albert Hall, it was transformed into a well-liked coffee shop in 1942 by the Coffee Board. Enjoying coffee, chicken cutlet and fish fry at the wooden tables and plastic chairs with simple decor will certainly shift you back to the pre-independence days. Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray and Amartya Sen are known to have ‘adda’ sessions here. It is a nostalgic spot for all the folks of Kolkata and is a must-visit when in the city.

Where: 15, Bankim Chatterjee St, College Square West, College Street, Kolkata
Timings: 12 PM – 8 PM
Cost For Two: ₹200

Also Read: 1918 Estd. Paramount Sherbet, Must-Visit In Kolkata, Has Had Patrons Like Saurav Ganguly, Satyajit Ray & More

After going through wars, government changes, freedom, and more, these legendary coffeehouses in India are still standing tall and serving tasty food to their customers. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and tick these off your list of legendary eateries.

Cover Image Courtesy: X/SaoirseAF & dr_ranchi

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