Fast Facts

Restaurant Name: Patel Vegetarian 

Address: 202 Dr Yusuf Dadoo Stret, Durban Central, Durban 

Telephone: 031 306 1774 

Opening and closing times: Closed Sunday; Monday to Saturday 6am to 2pm 

Average price of a main course: R100 

Parking situation: Kerbside Parking 

Food type: Indian 

Best for: Authentic Indian food, takeaways 

Food 

Hailed as ‘the bunny chow kings’, this strictly vegetarian and halaal refreshment room delivers authentic and delectable Indian cuisine at exceptionally affordable prices. Positioned in a fairly chaotic industrial area, the restaurant enjoys consistently high foot-traffic from local Durbanites.  

Menu highlights include the Mixed Veg Bunny Chow, made up of a fragrant medley of spicy, curried vegetables in a rich and flavoursome gravy. The Broad Beans Bunny Chow is a crowd favourite, and consists of a soft ¼ loaf of white bread filled with an aromatic, potent Broad Beans curry. Offering an indulgent array of freshly prepared sweet meats, diners enjoy traditional desserts such as jalebi, ladoo and chana magaj.  

Drinks

The restaurant does not serve wine. 

Service

Due to the location of the restaurant, it is extremely busy and full of walk-in customers and sit-down diners. The counter is serviced by three servers who are friendly, patient and efficient in their ability to multi-task and meet the needs of all customers. 

Ambience

Situated in the heart of the Durban CBD, the restaurant is consistently packed with customers. The limited seating area is consistently occupied, and the ordering process, while extremely chaotic, is always completed to the customer’s satisfaction.  

The restaurant is very dated and and does not offer much in terms of aesthetics or decor, however the quality and taste of the food has earned a loyal customer base. Positioned in a high-traffic and notoriously unsafe area in the Durban CBD, it is nearly impossible to find a parking space, and I personally would not choose to dine there again, which is a pity considering the food is so good. Perhaps a takeaway option would be best. 

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.