Is Ahmedabad’s Most Expensive Gujarati Thali at Agashiye Worth the Splurge?
In the heart of Ahmedabad, atop the restored 1920s heritage mansion known as The House of MG, lies Agashiye — a rooftop restaurant that serves what is widely considered the city’s most premium and expensive Gujarati thali. Priced at around ₹1,000–1,500 per person (often crossing ₹2,000 for two after taxes), depending on whether you opt for the Heritage Classic or the Grand version served in kansa or silver utensils, Agashiye is far from an everyday meal. The question on every food lover’s mind remains: Is it truly worth it?
The Experience Beyond the Plate
Agashiye is not merely a restaurant; it’s a carefully curated heritage dining experience. Guests are seated on a beautiful open-air terrace surrounded by the elegant architecture of a bygone era. The gentle evening breeze, traditional Gujarati decor, soft lighting, and panoramic views of the old city create an atmosphere that feels intimate yet regal — as if you’ve been invited to dine at a grand family home rather than a commercial establishment.
The service matches the setting. Staff are attentive, knowledgeable, and warm; they explain each dish as it arrives, offer unlimited refills without making you ask twice, and ensure the pacing feels relaxed and personal. For many visitors, especially tourists or those celebrating special occasions, this sense of timeless elegance and hospitality is what elevates the meal into something memorable.
The Food: Authentic, Seasonal, and Refined
The thali itself follows traditional Gujarati home-cooking principles: mildly spiced, balanced flavours, and a daily-rotating menu that highlights seasonal ingredients. Expect an array of sabzis, dal, kadhi, farsan, various breads (rotli, puran poli, thepla), rice preparations, chutneys, pickles, and a selection of sweets like shrikhand or halwa. Everything is freshly prepared, and the quality of ingredients shines through in the clean, comforting taste.
Food critics and travel publications, including Condé Nast Traveller, have praised Agashiye as a culinary gem and one of the finest representations of Gujarati cuisine. With over a thousand glowing reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor, it’s clear that a large number of diners leave impressed by both the authenticity and refinement.
The Counter-Argument: Value for Money?
Not everyone agrees that the premium pricing is justified. Many locals, particularly on forums like Reddit, argue that the food — while good — is essentially home-style Gujarati fare that can be found elsewhere in Ahmedabad at a fraction of the cost. Popular alternatives such as Gordhan Thal, Vishala, Annkoot, or Sasuji are frequently cited as offering equally tasty (or even superior) thalis with larger portions and greater variety for ₹300–600 per person.
Some reviewers note occasional inconsistencies — fewer items than expected on certain days or dishes that feel understated for the price tag. For those seeking pure gastronomic bang-for-buck or a more robust, street-style thali experience, Agashiye can come across as overpriced.
The Verdict
Ultimately, whether Agashiye is “worth it” depends on what you’re looking for.
If your priority is simply delicious, no-frills Gujarati food in generous quantities, you’ll find far better value at several other legendary spots across the city.
But if you crave an elevated, atmospheric introduction to Gujarati cuisine — one wrapped in heritage charm, impeccable service, and a setting that transports you to another era — then Agashiye delivers an experience that few places can match. It’s a landmark restaurant for a reason, especially magical during dinner on the terrace (advance booking is highly recommended).
In short: For a special occasion, cultural immersion, or a luxurious taste of tradition, Agashiye is absolutely worth the splurge. For everyday thali cravings, look elsewhere.
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