Establishments or restaurants that serve food have been part of human civilizations for eons. India is no exception.
If you only follow social media, you might get the impression that the dirtiest and most unhygienic places serving what is loosely called “food” are all centered in India. The reality, however, is quite different — something those of us who live here know well. In India, you can find eateries to suit every budget. Generally, the standard of hygiene is directly proportional to the amount you spend at these establishments.
Dining at five-star hotels can easily burn through an entire month’s budget. Of course, if you dine there regularly, you are probably not someone who lives on a strict budget — or on money earned through entirely honest means. On the other end of the spectrum, roadside joints offer dirt-cheap food, often accompanied by a generous amount of actual dirt. No one in their right mind would eat there unless they are at the bottom rung of society or trying to create content as a social media influencer.
Personally, I have never been drawn to either extreme. The only times I’ve eaten out have been when I was traveling and had no other way to get a meal. I would much rather cook my own food than eat at a hotel or restaurant. For example, last year I stayed alone at my home in Kerala for six months. There were several good hotels right next door, yet I never once ordered from any of them. I preferred to cook for myself. I’m not a great cook, but I manage well enough. Perhaps some of this habit comes from my wife, who also strongly prefers to avoid outside food.
Having said that, please don’t get the impression that we never dine out. Two decades ago, while house hunting and finalizing the purchase of the flat I currently live in, we had lunch at a small restaurant nearby. Over the past twenty years, we have occasionally ordered food from some of the better hotels in the locality. Now, as we prepare to move out of this flat into a new one near my son’s office, we plan to visit that same old restaurant — a nice way to close the circle.
All said and done, I still strongly prefer simple, non-spicy, home-cooked food that feels healthy. I also enjoy eating in the familiar comfort and anonymity of my own home — wearing comfortable clothes, watching TV, and not having a server hovering around. That, to me, is the best way to enjoy a meal.