Travel better with Urbanaut

Eat / Drink

Lucky Restaurant

by Urbanaut This is a tea-stop that’s unique, and slightly bizarre with an interesting backstory. When the owner realised that the land he wanted to build this establishment on was once a cemetery, he decided that instead of disturbing the dead, he would build around them. Consequently, coffins and tables coexist in one space. This strange feature attracted many curious visitors, including MF Hussain, who became a regular and even gifted the owner an impromptu painting that still hangs on the walls.

by Urbanaut Part of the iconic Ahmedabad Ni Gufa art gallery, Zen Cafe is where the cool kids are at. Sit back, relax, and take in the artsy atmosphere with a good cup of coffee. If you’re hungry, the hummus, roasted herbed potatoes, and chocolate ganache are crowd favourites.

by Urbanaut The flagship Zen Cafe with Zenroom - the co-working space above as well as Loft - a baking and small-batch roastery with a terrace cafe area. Overall a fabulous place to work from, or get a cup of excellent coffee with a side of nature (they’re located next to Sundervan - an urban forest that provides much welcome green views).

by Urbanaut If there’s one thing to know about Gujarati food, it’s that it’s big on snacks, and Swati Snacks is an institution. Gorge on iconic Gujarati snacks like Farsaan, Handvo, Dal Bati,Dholki, chat, and more. They also serve full fledged meals in addition to snacks.

by Urbanaut An offshoot of the traditional restaurant Vishalla, Vechaar Museum is one that’s dedicated entirely to old utensils, or ‘Vechaar’. A unique museum, it houses old utensils used in homes back in day that have been passed down through generations.

by Urbanaut Manek Chowk is one of Ahmedabad’s most bustling, lively city squares. Set in old Ahmedabad, it’s surrounded by historical structures, and is a vegetable market by morning, a bullion market by afternoon, and an aromatic street food hub by evening. Spend the day shopping till you drop for accessories and trinkets, and eat away the evening by sampling some delicious vegetarian street food.

The Green House

by Urbanaut Part of the iconic House of MG heritage hotel, The Green House is their resident, greenery themed cafe. Located on the ground floor courtyard of the heritage mansion and overlooking the famous Siddi Saiyed Mosque, this cafe serves fresh, nourishing food cooked in an open kitchen. They’re known for their cold pressed juices, homemade ice creams, traditional delicacies, and continental favourites.

Wagh Bakri Tea Lounge

by Urbanaut Tea enthusiasts, this ones for you. The Wagh Bakri name carries something of a legacy within the tea world, having created one of the most renowned tea brands in India. At their tea lounge in Ahmedabad, sample some great brews like their signature Masala Chai, Lemongrass, Saffron, mint and more.

by Urbanaut Seva Cafe runs on a business model based on kindness & soundness. At this volunteer run cafe, you don’t have to pay for your meal. Instead, you can pay any amount you see fit for whoever is to come after you. They call this the principle of the ‘gift economy’, and we’re all for it!

by Urbanaut Translating to ‘on the terrace’, Agashiye is a charming terrace restaurant housed in the iconic House of MG heritage hotel. Known for its Gujarati Thali, it first opened its doors in 1999, and ever since has been serving a fixed menu that changes daily. The food here is fresh, seasonal, and cooked with love, making it a go-to culinary experience in Ahmedabad

Do

The Adalaj Stepwell

by Urbanaut When in Ahmedabad, a visit to this historical monument is not to missed. Steeped in history, this five story stepwell is an ode to incredible Indo-Islamic architecture. Structures like these were built along semi-arid regions of the country to store monsoon water. They also served as rest stops for passing pilgrims and traders.

Kavi Dalpatram Memorial

by Urbanaut Kavi Dalpatram was a famous Gujarati poet, and in memory of him, the state built a memorial in the form of a statue where he once lived. The memorial also functions as a thriving community space where locals gather.

by Urbanaut Rani No Hajiro is a historical monument in the form of a tomb complex built especially for Mughal queens. Located near the bustling Manek Chowk, the structure has an open courtyard where the tombs rest. This homage to the queens of the Mughal era serves as a quiet pause amidst the action packed Manek Chowk.

Auto World Vintage Car Museum

by Urbanaut If automobiles are your thing, you can’t miss this! This museum boasts the largest collection of vintage automobiles in India. It’s a celebration of India’s automobile heritage, displaying gorgeous vehicles once owned by Maharajas and royalty. From custom horse-drawn buggies to vintage Rolls Royce’s & Cadillacs, this place is every enthusiast’s dream.

by Urbanaut Part of exploring new places is getting familiar with their history, including the unpleasant bits. The Conflictorium, or the Museum of Conflict, creatively tells these complicated stories through interactive art exhibits. Housed in a 90 year-old building in Ahmedabad’ old city, this intriguing project highlights the importance of multiple perspectives in an increasingly polarised world, and strives to find creative, community led solutions to conflict through art & conversation. This promises to be an introspective & valuable experience.

Law Garden Night Market

by Urbanaut Shop till you drop at this lively night market where you’ll find tonnes of make-shift stalls selling local garments, trinkets, beautiful decor, handicrafts, and a whole lot more. And if all that shopping makes you hungry, there’s plenty of excellent street food stalls to choose from.

by Urbanaut The flagship Zen Cafe with Zenroom - the co-working space above as well as Loft - a baking and small-batch roastery with a terrace cafe area. Overall a fabulous place to work from, or get a cup of excellent coffee with a side of nature (they’re located next to Sundervan - an urban forest that provides much welcome green views).

Ahmedabad Ni Gufa

by Urbanaut A fascinating mix of art and architecture, Ahmedabad Ni Gufa is an art gallery experience like no other. Designed by renowned architect BV Doshi, this underground gallery exhibits the works of MF Hussain. This interesting structure is essentially a series of interconnected domes, giving it its cave like characteristics. A visit here promises to be a sensory treat.

by Urbanaut Intriguingly named, there’s more to this place than locks & keys. This is a museum run by Dr. Hiren Shah, AKA Doc, out of home in Ahmedabad. Incidentally, ‘LOCKs’ stands for ‘Lovers of Old Collectibles and Knick-Knacks. So if you identify as a ‘LOCK’, don’t miss this.

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

by Urbanaut Another one of Ahmedabad’s architectural marvels, the Siddi Saiyyed Mosque is an ode to the states multicultural history. It symbolises the African Diaspora in India, who came to become patrons of the arts. It’s famous for its ornamental lattice work and its rich history.

Stay

Jagdip Mehta's Heritage House

by Urbanaut If you’re a sucker for heritage homes, this one’s a must for you. A gorgeous mix of traditional 20th century architecture with Italian influences, this 200 year old heritage home makes for a unique homestay experience. Still home to the Mehta family, this Haveli is located well within reach of historical sites, traditional markets, and old neighbourhoods.

Deewanji ni Haveli

by Urbanaut Experience staying at a stunning 280 year old wooden Haveli. This 4-storied structure includes a scenic courtyard and a collection of bespoke antique furniture. The Haveli maintains its heritage charm, but is also comfortably fitted out. It’s centrally located, and to top it all off, there’s also a hot tub!

The House of MG

by Urbanaut A gorgeous heritage hotel in the heart of Ahmedabad, this architectural marvel makes for a truly Haveli-esque experience. Savour slow-cooked, seasonal Gujarati fare, take a dip in their stunning lotus-themed indoor pool, buy an artisanal souvenir or two, or explore the in’s and outs of the city through their curated in-house experiences like rickshaw tours and heritage walks. The House of MG prides itself on being a child, solo lady traveller, and elderly friendly hotel.

by Urbanaut A 150-year old tastefully restored Gujarati heritage home, The French Haveli is located in one or Ahmedabad’s old neighbourhood’s, also known as ‘pol’, or a housing cluster. Historically, these used to house multiple families of the same community. Experience the charm of a Gujarati Haveli with a touch of luxury. The space includes a central open, outdoor courtyard, and rooms range from single to suites, all comfortably fitted. They also serve fresh breakfast every morning.

Real local

Lucky Restaurant

by Urbanaut This is a tea-stop that’s unique, and slightly bizarre with an interesting backstory. When the owner realised that the land he wanted to build this establishment on was once a cemetery, he decided that instead of disturbing the dead, he would build around them. Consequently, coffins and tables coexist in one space. This strange feature attracted many curious visitors, including MF Hussain, who became a regular and even gifted the owner an impromptu painting that still hangs on the walls.

by Urbanaut If there’s one thing to know about Gujarati food, it’s that it’s big on snacks, and Swati Snacks is an institution. Gorge on iconic Gujarati snacks like Farsaan, Handvo, Dal Bati,Dholki, chat, and more. They also serve full fledged meals in addition to snacks.

by Urbanaut Manek Chowk is one of Ahmedabad’s most bustling, lively city squares. Set in old Ahmedabad, it’s surrounded by historical structures, and is a vegetable market by morning, a bullion market by afternoon, and an aromatic street food hub by evening. Spend the day shopping till you drop for accessories and trinkets, and eat away the evening by sampling some delicious vegetarian street food.

Buy

National Institute of Design

by Urbanaut The National Institute of Design is widely regarded as India’s most acclaimed institute of multidisciplinary design & research. It should come as no surprise that it churns out some of the most talented alumni. At NIDUS, the on campus store, you get the chance to buy design creations by NID alumni.

by Urbanaut Rani No Hajiro is a historical monument in the form of a tomb complex built especially for Mughal queens. Located near the bustling Manek Chowk, the structure has an open courtyard where the tombs rest. This homage to the queens of the Mughal era serves as a quiet pause amidst the action packed Manek Chowk.

Law Garden Night Market

by Urbanaut Shop till you drop at this lively night market where you’ll find tonnes of make-shift stalls selling local garments, trinkets, beautiful decor, handicrafts, and a whole lot more. And if all that shopping makes you hungry, there’s plenty of excellent street food stalls to choose from.

CEPT University Kasturbhai Lalbhai Campus

by Urbanaut Inside the beautiful campus of CEPT University (designed by the famous architect BV Doshi), is a small store that sells items designed by its students and alumni. Here, you can run find one of a kind handcrafted jewellery, notebooks, art, and ceremic products at throwaway prices.