It has been a tough summer in Maharashtra. Rains are still a fortnight away and the heat scorching. Though I am amused by the idea of travel, be it for work (most of them are) or pleasure, I was a bit skeptical this time. How would it feel traveling from scorching 40-degree heat into Mumbai’s familiar wall of humidity. Unsure of what to expect, I started for a visit to Mumbai for work.
My Driver confirmed we are taking the newly opened the “missing link” part of the expressway. The Missing Link is a new 13.3 km bypass corridor connecting Khopoli to Kusgaon near Lonavala, designed to avoid the old winding Khandala ghat section. Tunnels, towering viaducts, and a massive cable-stayed bridge — all built to reduce congestion and driver fatigue through the old Khandala ghat section.
My first stop at Shree Dutta Snacks. I still prefer the old one compared to the food mall a 100m away, which has a lot more food options from SDS themselves to Mumbai 2 Udupi, Starbucks and many more local joints. Options galore with wonderful seating, washrooms (clean and hygienic) and ample car park space. Had it been a few years ago, my staple order would have been a serving of Sabu dana khichadi (if you are visiting this place, do try it. Its lip smacking.) with Poha or may be a Vada Pav. But, times have changed and I keep it rather simple with a serving of Poha and Upma each. The taste is genuine and so recognizable, it has not changed since my first more than 15 years ago. I am a fan.
Also, you might wonder with the large portions of servings. I usually opt for a heavy breakfast while on the road. The idea is too not spend time on food in Mumbai (The traffic gets scary later on) and complete work quickly to start my return home. Its a very late lunch and very early dinner.
I was done quick enough this time. Call it muscle memory or the calm after a successful day at work, but hunger pangs hit me only once I am back on the expressway — never before. It has been happening for years now and i am pleasantly surprised at how even my body knows.
Ok, now the return home. A lot more pleasant that my anticipation. The clouds opened up to drench the thirsty trees. It started from drizzle and became torrential. A huge sigh of relief for Humans, trees and animals alike. I was tempted to hop out of my car and get soaked in the first rains but I controlled my emotions. Something about the first rain after weeks of heat soothes the heart differently.
But not before a hearty meal at Starbucks at the food mall in Khopoli Khalapur. If you have not tried the Ice shaken cinnamon espresso, you must. The single shot espresso mixed with an adequate quantity of cinnamon to lend a roasted sweetness to the coffee is so refreshing. Its perfect companion was the Egg Chicken Croissant served on multigrain wheat bread. Wow! My stomach and my heart, both satiated.
And yes I remembered to carry home a Mango Passionfruit Cake (A beautiful green and yellow delicacy) and a Lemon Crème Gateaux (Crunchy, Melty with a sudden dash of lemon zest). We had them the next day, it stayed fresh and tasted delicious enough to leave my wife pleasantly surprised.
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