Sep 02, 2004 05:25 PM
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(Updated Sep 02, 2004 06:05 PM)
Okay, it doesn't have the greatest atmosphere in the world, and the traffic getting there is often nightmarish, but a lot of Mumbaikers know Shiv Sagar as one of the most dependable fast food joints in Juhu. And besides, Saffron (at J.W. Marriott up the road) is redolent with atmosphere and has some of the most insipid food in the city. So the rule seems to be, the less a meal costs and the plainer the surroundings, the more likely you are to get a great meal, and that's the case with Shiv Sagar.
I've been to Shiv Sagar four times and have yet to be disappointed. Their specialties are healthy South Indian fare such as dosas and idli, and their city-famous pav bhaji. The dosas are perfect--huge, crisp, with great coconut and cilantro chutneys and sambar. The dosa masala (Rs. 35) covers an entire plate, and is nearly enough for two, but it's so delicious you'll find yourself slapping anyone who tries to purloin a bite.
There are also a lot of variations on the dosa, including the Mysore dosa (Rs. 40), a triangle spread with cilantro chutney and filled with spiced potatoes. My favorite is the spring dosa (Rs. 40)--it has a vaguely Chinese-style filling of chopped veggies and herbs and has a fresh, slightly crunchy sensation on the mouth.
But of course the real star of Shiv Sagar is the pav bhaji (Rs. 35). A lot of pav bhaji I?ve had tastes like the stuff that comes from a microwaveable package, bland and salty. Shiv Sagar?s cheese pav bhaji (my favorite) comes in a sizeable portion with as many buttery rolls as you care to order, and is just right?not really spicy, but full of flavor.
Shiv Sagar also has a number of dessert selections, but the best are their ice creams and milk shakes. The sitaphal milk shake (Rs. 65) with ice cream (currently in season) is my favorite, but they have mango (in season), strawberry, and the usual other varieties.
So in short, take a trip to the seaside at Juhu, walk in the sand and build up a hunger. You?ll then be ready for a real treat at Shiv Sagar.
