Mubashir Aalam Wani
Srinagar, Mar 25: Restaurants in Kashmir are bustling with people this Ramadan as the trend of iftar gatherings is fast picking up in the valley.
Since the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, restaurants, which introduced Ramadan specials menus, are experiencing a huge rush of customers.
This is something which has picked up in Kashmir for the last few years with the opening of new restaurants offering exotic cuisines.
Such is the rush of customers to these restaurants that many food outlets have made it mandatory for people to book their tables in advance.
Café Ababeel is one such restaurant, which has introduced Ramadan special menus this Ramadan. From traditional Babri drinks to Turkish Kebabs and Uzbek dishes, the restaurant’s Ramadan special menu has witnessed a huge acceptance from the foodies across the valley.
“Like every year, we have a Ramadan special menu, which includes traditional and exotic dishes. We introduced a two person combo, which is fast picking up. In addition to the Turkish and Uzbek dishes, we introduced a dessert called Kabak Tatlisi, which is becoming people’s favourite this Ramadan,” said Food and Beverages Manager of the café, Mudasir Mir.
He said on an average daily, as many as 200 people visit the restaurant to break their fast with Ramadan special dishes.
“We get lot of customers during Ramadan. On an average we receive 200 persons, who come to break their fast with our Ramadan special cuisines. Such is the rush that some leave after finding no table to sit and have meals,” Mir said.
Same is the case with other restaurants of the valley, which too are experiencing a huge rush of customers during the Ramadan.
Apart from the restaurant, the outdoor Iftar too is picking up within the valley. Everyday scores of the families and friends gather in parks, gardens, and open spaces to partake in the Iftar meal.
“Iftar gatherings hold a special place in our hearts. After a challenging period of isolation, it feels rejuvenating to come together with our neighbors and relatives and share this blessed moment,” said Ayaz Bhat, a local resident, who too had organised a iftar gathering for his family and relatives.
Local vendors and businesses are also capitalizing on the trend by setting up iftar stalls in popular outdoor locations, offering a variety of traditional delicacies and refreshments for those partaking in the outdoor Iftars.
