Written By Antara Kulkarni
The sweltering heat of Pune summers or the rainy early monsoon evenings provide one with fitting excuses to stay indoors and order in. It is, consequently, a downtime at most eateries, when you are likely to be the only customer. Only a few places buck the trend, where the season or reason does not matter and it is always crowded. For over half a century, Santosh Bakery on Apte Road has been one such spot, thanks to its famously flaky patties stuffed with spicy potato fillings, among others. The place is as much a conversation starter among foodies as it is a historic landmark in the city.
A bite of history
Santosh Bakery is considered to be among the first to introduce puffed pastries, better known as patties, to the city. The food item was the brainchild of grocer Narayan Shelke, who ran a corner shop in Shivajinagar in 1968. The Shelke family – Narayan had three brothers – were from Ghotawade in Mulshi. Narayan’s decision to sell puffed pastries at the shop every Thursday proved to be a roaring success, making him realise that they were a treat that often made a person’s day. He decided to transform the grocery store into a bakery. Santosh Bakery has since been a part of Pune, and someone is always present at the eatery, munching on the patties or biting into the deliciously soft and tender coconut cakes.
Over time, the bakery was passed down to Narayan’s son and is now co-owned by the third generation, Vishaka and Mayur Shelke. Much, however, remains unchanged. For instance, they still use an in-house woodfire oven that lends a smoky flavour to the patties.
Keeping the legacy intact
As you walk into the bakery, you might wonder why — given its popularity — Santosh Bakery still remains tucked into a corner of Apte Road, occupying as little space as it can, rather than expanding or opening more outlets. It turns out this is partly because the oven cannot be transported or exposed to any construction.
The bakery still does not have any other outlets because the oven cannot be transported or exposed to any construction. (Express Photo by Arul Horizon)
“The quality and taste have remained exceptional and consistent for other reasons as well. We work hard to ensure that quality is maintained,” says Vikas Joshi, manager of the bakery. More than 500 customers come in every day. Workers prepare all the food twice a day, ensuring quick service and freshness. You do not have to wait more than a few seconds to get what you ordered — even if you decide, like nearly every customer, to buy in bulk.
Pune is dotted with iconic bakeries in every locality, from Kayani Bakery in Camp to Tokyo Bakery in Baner. Santosh Bakery, however, isn’t trying too hard. It is located away from the hustle and bustle of FC Road but close enough to the crowds. The workers are trained to be quick, patient, and welcoming, as they know that these memories keep building up for customers as the years pass.
The author is an intern with The Indian Express
