I decided to look up the oldest Indian restaurant in Toronto. Surprisingly, it’s only 49 years old. Moti Mahal, since 1976. It is being run by the second generation.
London, Ontario’s oldest Indian restaurant, the Jewel of India, also opened over 40 years ago. It closed during the pandemic, when the owner retired. I understand someone new has re-opened it with the same name, but the Cuisine is no longer Pan- Indian like the original had been.
I presume the name has no connection with the original Delhi restaurant opened in 1947. It claims to have invented butter chicken and dal makhani. Some years back, they did open a branch in London but it was shortlived - but open long enough for me to eat there twice. Possibly the finest Indian food I’ve eaten.
Correct.
Most of our Indian restaurants in Canada have the same name as famous Indian restaurants in India, without having a connection to the original famous restaurants in India, or they’re named after famous buildings in India.
Moti Mahal in Toronto is a very affordable restaurant, at the same price point as a greasy spoon or a British -style cafe.
We didn’t think of searching for a list – instead remembering historic locations we’ve tried either for history or reputation/importance in shaping national tastes. Turns out the wiki article lists five more names we’ve sat in and partaken.
