Last update:
The signature sweet and aromatic roti of Pune's Roat Bakers has attracted renowned customers, including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and actor Dilip Kumar.
Founded in 1857, Pune's Roat Bakery has preserved its traditional recipes and flavors over generations. (Representative image: generated by AI)
Pune's rich food culture continues to thrive through its many age-old culinary traditions, and one such hidden gem is a nearly 169-year-old bakery, Roat Bakers, located on the bustling streets of Raviwar Peth and Ganesh Peth. In a city known for balancing heritage with modernity, this bakery stands as a delicious reminder of the past, attracting food lovers who crave authenticity over trends.
Established in 1857, this iconic bakery has preserved its traditional recipes and flavors throughout generations. Their signature offering, a sweet and aromatic roti made with semolina (rava), continues to win hearts with its rich flavour, nostalgic charm and timeless appeal.
Prepared with a healthy mix of rava, sugar, ghee, cardamom, poppy seeds and dry fruits like cashews and almonds, along with milk and khoya, this traditional delicacy is known for both its rich taste and nutritional value.
While a single roti costs around Rs 50, many customers prefer to place bulk orders. A dozen regular rotis are priced at around Rs 600, while the special version costs around Rs 960 per dozen.
Today, the bakery is run by the fifth and sixth generations of the founding family, with almost 60% of the family members actively involved in the business, supported by around 20 workers.
What makes it even more unique is its continuing tradition of allowing customers to bring their own ingredients to prepare the rotis, something many families still do for special occasions and religious offerings.
It is believed that the tradition of making rotis as a devotional offering during Muharram began here. Initially, the bakery operated only two months a year, but as demand grew steadily between 1990 and 1995, it became year-round. Nowadays, customers often place large orders and some take home between 50 and 100 kilograms of rotis in a single day.
Over the years, the popularity of this traditional delicacy has crossed borders. From Maharashtra to international destinations like Canada, Australia, Dubai and Saudi Arabia, the bakery's rotis are in high demand.
It has also attracted notable patrons, including political leaders like the late Ajit Pawar, Sharad Pawar, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and legendary actor Dilip Kumar.
Even in an era of modern bakeries and changing food trends, this historic establishment stands strong as a living symbol of Pune's culinary heritage, attracting food lovers who continue to appreciate its timeless taste and legacy.
April 15, 2026, 17:31 IST
