For more than 20 years, Babe Da Dhaba has been serving up delectable and reasonably priced thalis to students from its humble abode within the Punjab University campus. Originally started by the owner’s maternal grandparents in 1998, this small eatery has become a home away from home for many hostellers.
Despite its limited space and seating capacity, which can accommodate no more than 20 people under a blue tarpaulin roof, Babe Da Dhaba has won the hearts of countless students who flock to this spot on campus, located just two minutes from Gate No. 2, for a taste of its delicious and wholesome meals, consisting of Dal, Sabzi, and Roti, served with generosity and love.
Today, Gurpreet Singh, the current owner, has taken over from his grandparents and continues their legacy of serving affordable and delectable food to students. Singh’s grandfather, Mohinder Singh, used to run a dhaba in Sector 11 in the 1970s. Impressed with his outlet, the PU authorities invited him to start a dhaba inside the campus.
Gurpreet, owner, said, “We are here for the past 25 years, and I have seen many students having meals in this little place.”
Babe Da Dhaba has become a part of the fabric of Punjab University, with many students and alumni still visiting the eatery years after leaving the campus. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the dhaba faced a difficult period as the university was closed for almost two years. Singh had to take up a part-time job as a property dealer to support his family. Despite these challenges, Babe Da Dhaba continues to serve its loyal customers, albeit only during lunch hours.
Singh and his team of two assistants begin their day at 8 am by purchasing vegetables and other essentials from the market. The food is then prepared and served from 9 am to 3 pm, after which the dhaba is closed for the day. Singh’s commitment to cost-effectiveness is reflected in his decision to buy all necessary goods from wholesale markets and mandis.
Customers who have eaten at Babe Da Dhaba describe the experience as feeling just like home, with the food served with love and the background music creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Singh has managed to create a welcoming and hygienic environment for his customers, who often praise him and his team for their service.
While the dhaba has thrived in its current location for over two decades, Singh says that he would be open to expanding the area if permitted by the authorities. Babe Da Dhaba has become an integral part of the Punjab University community, with its commitment to serving affordable and delicious food with a side of humanity. In a world where fast food chains dominate the food industry, Babe Da Dhaba stands out for its personal touch.
