Do you also want to know which is the Original Haveli Dhaba on NH-1?

If you are reading this, then you must have come across a plethora of Dhaba’s with either prefix or suffix as “Haveli”. But do you know who started the original Haveli Dhaba in the region? Before proceeding further, let’s explain what “Dhaba” actually means & what “Haveli”as a word holds the meaning for hospitality industry in Northern India.

Let us first know “What is a Dhaba”?

A dhaba is a roadside restaurant commonly found in India and Pakistan, particularly along highways. Here’s a breakdown of what dhabas are known for:

• Location: Primarily on highways, serving as pitstops for travelers and truck drivers. You might also find them near petrol stations or on the outskirts of towns.
• Cuisine: They typically offer local cuisine, reflecting the region’s flavors and specialties.
• Ambiance: Dhabas are known for their simple and rustic atmosphere. Traditionally, they might have mud structures with seating on charpais (cot beds) with wooden planks for placing dishes. Today, some dhabas have adopted tables and chairs, but the focus remains on practicality and affordability.
• Opening Hours: Many dhabas are known for being open 24/7, catering to travelers who need food at any hour.
• Affordability: Dhabas generally offer inexpensive meals, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers and locals alike.
• Homemade Feel: The food at dhabas often has a “homemade” quality, using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Dhabas are a vibrant part of the Indian and Pakistani food scene. They offer a glimpse into local culture, delicious food, and a convenient stop for travelers on the road.

Why is there confusion regarding Original Haveli Dhaba?

Multiple Restaurants with the Name: The name “Haveli” is quite common for restaurants in India, particularly those with a theme inspired by traditional Indian mansions (haveli). This can lead to confusion when searching for the “original.”

Limited Online Information: Detailed historical records for restaurants, especially older ones, might not be readily available online.

As a avid traveler or you can say ‘user’ on NH-1 since my childhood, i have seen the evolution of Dhaba culture on NH-1 starting from Murthal in Haryana to Amritsar in Punjab or up to Jammu City on NH-1A.

There used to be only one famous dhaba i.e. Gulshan Dhaba in Murthal, then Jhilmil Dhaba in Karnal or Lucky da Dhaba in Jalandhar City. But these dhabas were very rural or antiquated in a way that they were not able to adapt the modern infrastructure facilities required by the tourists at that point of time. Though they have updated their infrastructure later & are running successfully.

Then came a Dhaba with the name “Haveli Jalandhar” which completely changed the way Dhabas were perceived in North India.

Game changing Unique propositions by Haveli Dhaba at Jalandhar

Haveli Jalandhar came up with unique Traditional Punjabi theme from using traditional thalis, Punjabi Manja (khatiya or charpayi in Hindi), traditional dining chairs & stools. An open Air Food Cafeteria along with Hygienic Restroom & other Tourist Utilities, it became an instant hit with the tourists.

Rangla Punjab – A traditional Punjabi theme Village

They also started “Rangla Punjab” a traditional Punjabi theme village. Along with serving traditional Punjabi food buffet at a very affordable price, they started to serve the Punjabi culture as an experience to the people. From traditional folk dances of Punjab, Bhangra and Gidda, Puppet shows, Magic shows, Bhand (Nukkad Natak) to displaying Punjab’s Handicraft & artisans, it became a rage among the Punjabis & tourists travelling along on NH-1.

Other Haveli Dhabas coming at Murthal & other places

With the success of Haveli Jalandhar followed a series of new Dhabas on NH-1 & other locations particularly Murthal in Haryana which was already a Dhaba Hub. The original “Haveli Jalandhar” were maybe late in establishing their presence at Murthal but they finally opened up their even more Grander “Haveli Murthal” in year 2011 since they established their first Flagship Dhaba at Jalandhar in year 2000.

HAVELI RESTAURANT & RESORTS LIMITED who started “Haveli Jalandhar” have presence in Jalandhar, Amritsar & Murthal. Any other Haveli dhaba is a standalone venture & not associated with the “Haveli Jalandhar”.

Disclaimer:

This is an independent post without any sponsored budgets just to add information for the people who actually want to go to the OG Haveli Dhaba started at Jalandhar. This post in no way undermines the quality and authenticity of other Haveli Dhabas running successfully.

Author: Team BTP

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