Sheikh Hamdan's dinner visit surprises Mumbai restaurant owner and residents

Mumbai: Sheikh Hamdan, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, dined at Pali Bhavan is well-known for exploring authentic dishes at local restaurants in Dubai, and it was no different when he visited India on a historic two-day trip on Tuesday.

During his official visit to India, Sheikh Hamdan dined at the fine-dining restaurant in Mumbai’s Bandra West known for its delectable menu, service, and ambiance. He shared photos and videos of his surprise visit through an Instagram story. He posted a photo of the passageway leading to the private dining room, which is upstairs – most likely the place graced by his presence. The passage features an array of multi-coloured ‘dabbas’ (the ubiquitous tiffin boxes, a common sight in Mumbai).

The Instagram video shows the long dining table with collectibles, paintings, and crockery items hanging against the wall, all set against a rustic-feel background.

On Wednesday, an excited Mishali Sanghani, the restaurant’s owner and Dubai resident, appreciated the kind gesture by Sheikh Hamdan. “It’s a special and amazing feeling. It’s a cherished moment,” she told Gulf News.

In a touching Instagram post, she described how the visit was unexpected but almost a dream-come-true moment for everyone associated with Pali Bhavan.

“Sheikh Hamdan has always been a legend, not just in the UAE but around the world. When we first moved here, we happened to live close to his farm, and I’d often catch myself wondering – if we ever opened a Pali in Dubai, would he visit? Not quite how I imagined it.. because he did visit Pali – just not in Dubai. He walked into Pali Bhavan, in Bandra, Mumbai. Never in my wildest dreams. I’m not someone who’s easily starstruck, but I can honestly say, there’s hardly anyone whose visit would’ve meant more.”

The news of the surprise visit to the restaurant was well received by local residents, for whom the Dubai Sheikh is no stranger, thanks to his acts of charity, daredevilry, and visits to restaurants, which later become part of local folklore.

Raju Nishad, a resident of Bandra West, noted that Pali Bhavan is a great hangout place, evoking nostalgia not just through its authentic food, but its unmatchable vibes.

“It’s popular among people who know about its uniqueness. It's almost like a hidden gem.”

Nishad, a Mumbai resident for 22 years, was pleasantly surprised by Sheikh Hamdan's selection of the place. “It’s an amazing trait of the Royal family member to have visited this place. Only those who really know about this place will visit it. So, this is quite special,” he said.