Rajabhau Bhel

One of the best and oldest BHEL stall started nearly 50-70 years ago at Bhavani Mandap. My dad told me that Rajabhau (owner) used to offer BHEL to him and his friends after their football games. We used to have BHEL at Bhavani Mandap during our college days. The new location is away from normal eating place at Khasbag maidan and Keshavrao Bhosle Natya grih. The BHEL is awesome and it should be eaten with kairi (green mango slice). One can also take family pack home or to outside Kolhapur (inform to owner to pack it for taking it outside city).

Rajabhau Bhel, a renowned eatery, owes its name to the dedicated owner, Rajabhau, who takes personal charge of concocting this delectable snack right before your eyes upon ordering. Nestled in a cozy corner, this quaint restaurant offers a unique experience in savoring bhel, presenting patrons with the option to relish the delicacy on-site while perched on plastic stools or to carry it home in a paper bag, perfect for sharing with family. Tucked away at a mere 5-minute stroll from the iconic Mahalaxmi Temple, Rambhau Bhel stands as a beacon for those seeking a distinctive variation of the beloved bhel-puri, distinct from the ones found in bustling Mumbai. While sharing similarities with its Mumbai counterpart, the bhel served here boasts its own unique blend of ingredients, comprising essentials such as puffed rice, sev, papdi, crushed puri, bhadang, coriander, chaat masala, and a garnish of a whole, split green chilly. What sets Rambhau's creation apart is the preparation's "wet" (oli) and "dry" (sukhi) versions. The "oli" bhel tantalizes the taste buds with a tangy tamarind chutney and a fiery green spicy chutney, while its "sukhi" counterpart abstains from any chutney. Unlike the traditional bhel, Rambhau's rendition does not include chopped boiled potatoes or tomatoes, offering minimal amounts of coriander and onion. Yet, despite these differences, the flavor profile remains delightful. The sukhi bhel entices with its satisfying crunchiness, while the oli bhel delights with its zesty tanginess, ensuring a fulfilling gastronomic experience. Adding to the allure of this culinary delight is the ability to customize the spice levels effortlessly. Patrons can easily adjust the fiery quotient of their bhel by simply requesting Mr. Rambhau to use less spicy chutney, making it suitable for varying palates. Despite its palatable appeal, Rajabhau Bhel maintains an affordable pricing range, with servings priced reasonably between ₹50 to ₹80. It beckons visitors, particularly during the evening hours, providing an opportunity to indulge in this savory snack, especially if one finds themselves in the vicinity of the Mahalaxmi Temple. The combination of Rambhau's personal touch, the distinct bhel variations, and the close proximity to the iconic temple renders this eatery a must-visit for enthusiasts craving a unique culinary experience. Whether relished on-site or shared at home, Rambhau Bhel promises a flavorful journey through this beloved Indian snack.