A drive down the Gurgaon-Jaipur highway for some work had me crossing the Old Rao Dhaba. It looked a bit different and much bigger from the last time I had been there. The board outside read Old Rao Hotel instead of Dhaba but evoked memories of some finger licking food that I had had there a few years back. Hailing from Punjab, the land of dhabas, the call was too strong for me to resist. So I headed over for lunch.

The parking area rush gave me an idea of what to expect inside and true to the expectation there was a waiting but thankfully I managed to get a table after 15 minutes or so. The interiors have gone a bit more refined and furniture also looks neat as compared to my last visit. 

I started by ordering Chhach (Rs. 40), our desi appetizer, which was nice and refreshing with a strong ‘jeera’ flavor. For main course I decided to order Dal Makhani (Rs. 110) which was ok, nothing to write home about. 

                       Chhach                                         Dal Makhani

Majority of the Punjabi dhabas are famous for their dal tadka which is mixed pulses cooked on slow flame for a long period of time to bring out its flavors so that was a ‘must order’ and it did not disappoint at all. We were served a lip smacking Dal Tadka (Rs 80) which got polished off in minutes. Also ordered Khoya Paneer (Rs. 200) and Shahi paneer (Rs. 220). The Shahi paneer tasted awesome with a hint of chilli in a gravy that had very less tomato much to my liking.

                       Dal Tadka                                            Shahi paneer

The Khoya paneer was very rich and loaded with dry fruits on top.  These were accompanied by Dum aloo (Rs 120) which was decent.

                  Khoya Paneer                                           Dum Aloo

We also had Aloo Gobhi (Rs. 80) which unfortunately had more potatoes than gobhi.  Chana Masala (Rs. 80) was again well cooked with the flavor of garam masala shining through.

                   Aloo Gobhi                                          Chana Masala

All of the above was accompanied with some huge and excellent Lachha paranthas, Tandoori Roti and Aloo pyaaz stuffed paranthas, fresh chillies and salad. Really loved the fresh breads as they complemented the meal perfectly.

                 Tandoori Roti                                          Fried Chillies

For dessert it was the quintessential Jalebi, not to be missed if you are a fan of the thin and crisp kind that is not too sweet.

                      Jalebi

The portions were good and overall it was a great “Dhaba” experience. The place may have changed its name but retains its essence in taste as well as pricing.

Disclaimer: This review was done anonymously and the bill was presented and paid in full. The views presented are solely based on the author’s palate and personal experience.

Ratings (Out of 5)

Food: 4.0 | Ambience: 2.5 | Service: 3.0 | Value: 4.0 | Overall: 3.5

Meal for two: Rs.500 | Alcohol: No | Credit Card: No | Wheel chair friendly: No |

Home Delivery: No

Address: NH 8, Delhi-Jaipur Highway, Dharuhera Phone: 9992317800