I can think of very few proper Gujarati thalis you can get for AED25 in Dubai today. The last ‘budget’ Gujarati thali I had (also in Karama) was at Ajanta, a shocking experience I have yet to recover from. Kathiawa gives you Rasoi Ghar and Rajdhani quality in a smaller, no frills package.
Understandably, service is proportionately less suave and articulate, we’re talking about a tiny, three table restaurant. That said, in typical Gujarati fashion, hospitality is unbelievable, service amazing.
On the flip side, I was disappointed (devastated actually) that they had no Kitcheree for lunch. Apparently, it’s only served for dinner and on weekends – boo! Also, their chaas (buttermilk) could do with some spicing up.
No self-respecting Gujju establishment would be complete without some sweets and savoury snacks, and Kathiawa has a small but delicious assortment of which I highly recommend the Jalebi.
Next door to Filipino heavyweight, Hot Palayok and sitting almost dead opposite from Bu Qtair sibling, Hot Fish, Kathiawa could not be in better culinary company. By positioning itself right in the middle of the thali price range, it certainly has identified a specific niche for itself. If they can keep the quality as it currently is, I can see these boys making a big impact as a VFM alternative to the big three, Rasoi Ghar, Maharaji Bhog and Rajdhani. Kudos to the owners and bon appetite to us foodies.
Waste NOT. Want NOT.
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