Dear Local Guides,
Today, I will share my experience about one more unique cafe of Ahmedabad: Kamla Cafe.
Hope you guys would like it.
Nestled in the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, Kamla Cafe is more than just a place to savor delicious food - it’s a tribute to Dr. Kamla Chowdhry, a pioneering educationist and social reformer. Managed by SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association), the cafe stands as a beacon of empowerment, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The Legacy Behind Kamla Cafe:
Dr. Kamla Chowdhry, the first faculty member of IIM Ahmedabad, dedicated her life to social justice and women’s empowerment. The cafe, built on land donated by her, honors her vision by providing a space where women entrepreneurs thrive.
Culinary Experience
The cafe offers an authentic farm-to-table experience, with ingredients sourced from SEWA’s women farmers. Traditional dishes made from locally grown grains like bajra and jowar take center stage, ensuring a nutritious yet delightful meal.
Dishes and Dining Experience:
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Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner: Kamla Cafe serves all-day meals, and I’ve personally enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, including family visits.
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Special Kashmiri Thali: Once, I had the opportunity to enjoy an unlimited Kashmiri thali prepared by Kashmiri women. The experience included a folk dance performance and a unique sabji made from lotus stems.
- Time-Specific Menus: The cafe offers dedicated menus for breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. South Indian cuisine is always available during breakfast and dinner.
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Seasonal Specialties: The cafe also offers seasonal items such as Ice Gola , Sugarcane Juice , Chikis , Mango , and Undhyu .
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Daily Menu Updates: The cafe shares its daily menu on their Instagram stories. (@kamla_sewa)
Architectural Harmony:
Designed by Studio Praxis, the architecture seamlessly blends with nature. Yellow sandstone walls, open courtyards, and a serene lily pond create an ambiance of peace and connection with the environment.
Unique Offerings:
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Fresh Produce Corner: The cafe features a corner dedicated to fresh vegetables and fruits.
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Bakery and Organic Groceries: A section offers bakery items and organic grocery products.
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Clothes and Handicrafts Corner: Handmade clothes and local handicrafts are available for purchase.
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Event Space: You can also book the venue in advance for parties and gatherings.
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RUDI Grocery Brand: The cafe proudly stocks and promotes products under their grocery brand RUDI.
Eco-Friendly Practices:
Kamla Cafe embraces sustainable practices:
- Food is served in Kasa thalis and recyclable bowls with spoons.
- No tissues are used; reusable alternatives are provided.
- Tablecloths are handmade by local women.
- Cloth Bags are hand woven by local women.
A Space for Learning and Community:
Beyond being a cafe, Kamla Cafe serves as a nutrition training center, equipping women with skills for self-reliance. It’s also a space for meaningful conversations, workshops, and community gatherings.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
The entire cafe is wheelchair accessible, with ramps provided both at the entrance and inside.
Who likes to visit Kamla Cafe?
I have generally found the crowd very polite and decent. On asking at the counter, they told me that customer base is of Doctors, judges, senior government officers, and sophisticated delegates who frequently visits Kamla Cafe for its homely, non-spicy meals, which are especially appreciated by elderly visitors.
Branches and Kamla on Wheels:
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Branches: Kamla Cafe has branches at IIM-A, MS Building, Vastrapur, Navrangpura, and Manipur.
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Kamla on Wheels:
- Experience the convenience of Kamla on Wheels, delivering hygienic and healthy meals straight to your doorstep! Perfect for personal parties, birthdays, or corporate events, Kamla on Wheels ensures a flavorful experience with every bite. Essentially operating as food trucks, they bring the wholesome Kamla Cafe experience directly to your gatherings.
Why visit Kamla Cafe?:
Whether you’re a food lover, an architecture enthusiast, or someone passionate about social causes, Kamla Cafe offers a holistic experience. It’s not just about dining - it’s about being part of a movement that uplifts communities.
The cafe looks exceptionally beautiful at night, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for a memorable dining experience.
Location: Kamla Cafe on Google Maps
Instagram: @Kamla_Sewa
Next time you’re in Ahmedabad, make sure to stop by Kamla Cafe for a meal that nourishes both the body and soul.