We have always heard people saying that dive into their cuisine if you would like to experience a culture. And when it comes to Indian food, most of the spotlight is stolen by the North Indian culinary traditions. This has deprived the world of the flavors of other parts of India like Maharashtra. One such often overlooked cuisine is the Maharashtrian/Coastal cuisine. Diva Maharashtracha, the Best Maharashtrian Restaurant in Dubai Is here to set the record straight. Is here to set the record straight. Located at the Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) in Dubai, Diva is one of the few restaurants in the UAE specializing in Maharashtrian and coastal culinary traditions.
The Ambience
Once you enter the premises, you are transported to the warmth of the Maharashtrian culture. A blue tribal Warli mural adorns the walls. At the same time, the indigo blue patterned tiles remind us of the clear blue seas that we have seen growing up. All in all, experience the best-in-class ambiance and service as you enjoy their delectable preparations.
Here are some of the dishes that we feel were our favorite. We believe that you must try these on your visit to the best restaurant in Dubai.
Vegetarian
Kaju Kothimbir Vadi
First on our list is Kaju Kothimbir Vadi. This dish is a kind of deep-fried or pan-fried fritter that is often consumed during tea time. Normally, while Kothimbir Vadi is made using peanuts, the chefs at Diva decided that Cahews would better replace peanuts. This fritter is first steamed and then fried, giving it its characteristic texture. The crispiness of this dish at this restaurant is soo good that you will come back for more.
Paneer Karanjee
Almost every cuisine in the world has a dumpling specific to its culture. Maharashtrian cuisine is no different. Karanja is a fried dumpling that is stuffed with everything from corn to spinach. And Diva has been a bit innovative this time and stuffed it with cottage cheese.
The end result is a spice-loaded delicacy fit for Kings. The creamy, slightly crumbly texture of the paneer creates an amazing contrast with the crispy wrapper shell. And it is fried to perfection, which gives it a characteristic crispy and crumbly texture.
Masala Bhaat
Masala Bhaat is a staple dish of Maharashtra. This dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser regardless of whether you are serving it for breakfast or at a wedding. The same applies to the one you get at Diva Maharashtracha. Its masale bhaat is something worth traveling long distances. The spices are so well balanced that their flavor remains in your mouth long after you are done eating.
Chapati and bharli wangi
Bharti Wangi/ Vangi is a staple in Maharashtra and in homes all along the western ghats. Its origins are a bit murky and debatable. But something that is not up to debate is the fact that Diva Maharashtracha has got one of the most delicious Bharli Wangi in Dubai. The chefs have done a great job stuffing the small wangi (brinjal) with masala and slowly cooking it until it becomes soft and creamy. All in all, the Wangi at Diva is spicy, yet the creamy texture balances the spice levels pretty well.
Non-vegetarian
Chicken Malwani Hirve Fry
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a Diva Maharashtracha special. No matter whether you serve it as an appetizer or a side dish. This chicken is so good that it will leave you no option but to order seconds. And when it is marinated in coriander and green chilly, then it has got a characteristic green color and taste to die for.
Malwani Fry prawns
Malwani fried prawns are a Maharashtrian and Konkan specialty, and you can not go wrong with ordering it at Diva Maharashtracha. Its shatteringly crispy and spicy outer shell will bring you back for more.
Nagpuri Saoji mutton
Saoji mutton at this restaurant has a characteristic nutty flavor that balances well with the spice levels. The mutton is so tender and juicy that it breaks away from the bone. If you are a non-vegetarian, this dish is a must-have for you at Diva Maharashtracha.
Desserts
Puran Poli
May God bless the hands of the chef who made my Puran Poli. Simply put, it is a roti stuffed with lip-smackingly delicious dal halwa with the flavouring of cardamom and saffron. But at Diva. the proportion of roti to halwa was beautifully balanced. Served with ghee, this is a dessert fit for kings. Also, it is perfect for those who have only tried the savory aspect of roti and want to try something new.
Doodhi Halwa
Some kids may not like Doodhi (bottle gourd) as a vegetable, but believe us when we say that no one in their right frame of mind will ever say no to the Doodhi halwa from Diva Maharashtracha. This amazing green dessert was cooked just like Gajar (carrot) halwa. The texture of the Doodhi halwa was impeccable. The cardamom and other spices are balanced so well with the sweetness of the sugar. So, we suggest that you leave the hard part of the preparation to the experts at Diva Maharashtracha and focus on just enjoying the delicacy.
Parting Words
If you are a Maharashtrian, the food at Diva Maharashtracha will satiate your yearning for the food of your state. Diva won’t just satiate your hunger pangs, it also specializes in drinks from the states along the western ghats like Kokam Fizz and Sol Kadhi that are considered classics amongst the coastal folk.
Visit Diva Maharashtracha anytime you feel homesick and crave some home-like food. The chefs over at Diva are eager to feed you!