Gandhi Cold Drinks

“Uff... This heat will kill us someday…!!” This is the common cry of the city whose temperature has already crossed 45°C. To beat the heat, people wear light colored and loose fitting clothes and deck themselves up with Dupattas, Sun Glasses and Gloves to protect themselves from the heat wave. Some people prefer to be in the confines of their homes or offices, to avoid this unbearable heat.

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But there is another way to beat this heat. On the way to Teen Darwaja, near the Bhadra Fort, there is the Gandhi Cold Drinks Shop. It is one of the oldest and the best place to have Faloodas, in aapnu Amdavad. ‘Falooda’ is basically a beverage served in the Indian sub-continent, originating from Persia. It is made by mixing Vermicelli, Basil Seeds (Takmaria), Milk and Flavoured Syrup. Served chilled, this refreshing treat is more tasty when it is topped with a scoopful of ice cream. This place is always flooded with people who have come to shop in the walled city, working class people and ardent Falooda lovers.

Deluxe Mix Falooda

On a  sweltering Saturday afternoon after doing some shopping with my family, we decided to cool ourselves at this Falooda joint. It’s a nice decent place, having three separate areas for people to sit. Two on the inside, and one on the outside for people who just want a quick refreshment. The owner was seated in a small cubicle right at the entrance of this shop.  The walls of this shop were made out of marble stones, that gave some respite from the heat. Hardly had we found ourselves comfortable seats, our eyes had started browsing through the variety of options mentioned in the menu that was printed on the walls.Without much delay we ordered the Royal Falooda and Deluxe Mix Falooda. The Royal Faluda had Saffron (Kesar) Syrup, topped with Milk, Vermicelli and Basil Seeds, with a scoopful of ice cream and Kesar shreddings. The Deluxe Mix had Red Almond syrup, and was topped with mixed dry fruits. When the waiters handed the glasses of Falooda, our hearts and tummies delighted on their sight. Served in a tall glass, this cold beauty melted our hearts. We carefully stirred the Falooda, and took a first taste of it.It sure was love at first taste. Immediately we felt the temperature drop. The Basil Seeds did their job of cooling down our senses, while the ice-cream satisfied our taste buds. And within no time our glasses were empty.

Royal Falooda

Situated amidst the old city, this Faluda Joint is a heritage in itself. It’s a must visit for people having an inclination towards sweet food, couples looking for some personal time, people coming to the walled city to shop, and ‘Foodies’ like us, who appreciate good food with a good story! Keep reading for more such foodie experiences.