Black and beautiful
The woody scent of garam masala being roasted with coconut on a giant iron tawa hits us as we step into Maruti Pav Bhaji in Vile Parle (W). The spices, cooked with mashed vegetables and coriander on a coal-stoked stove, add a blackish-brown hue and smoked flavour to the traditionally tomato-based dish, earning this version the moniker of Black Pav Bhaji (Rs80). Established in 1970, Maruti Pav Bhaji was initially set up as a stall at the corner of Bajaj Road. In the last few years, the stall has spawned similar joints in the same lane, launched by relatives of late Mr Maruti, the founder. The original is run by his grandson, Vaibhav Mhatre, who follows his recipe.