From Dhaba Dreams to Global Ambitions: The Mirch Masala Story of Rushad Ginwala

Ahmedabad, April 2026 : In a city like Ahmedabad, where culinary traditions run deep, Rushad Ginwala redefined dining by introducing bold, immersive food experiences. His iconic venture, Mirch Masala, launched in 1992, brought the rustic charm of North Indian dhabas into an urban setting, blending nostalgia, theatre, and authentic flavours.

With its vibrant “Ek Zinda Dil” atmosphere, Bollywood-inspired décor, vintage props, and lively energy, Mirch Masala quickly became more than just a restaurant—it became an experience. The concept was bold, especially in a city largely inclined towards traditional vegetarian cuisine, but Ginwala’s vision and understanding of evolving tastes made it a massive success.

The menu at Mirch Masala reflects a deep commitment to authentic flavours. Drawing inspiration from Punjabi, Mughlai, and Gujarati cuisines, the dishes are rooted in traditional cooking techniques, particularly slow cooking and dum-style preparations. Signature offerings like Zaffrani Murgh Biryani and Dum ka Hara Kofta exemplify this philosophy—rich, aromatic, and indulgent.

Among vegetarian favourites, dishes such as Paneer Butter Masala and Kadai Paneer stand out for their creamy textures and bold spice profiles. The Subz Lasuni adds a distinct garlic-infused twist, while Patiala Kofta delivers indulgence in every bite. Starters like Hara Bhara Kebab and Dahi Kebab provide a delightful contrast of textures, combining crisp exteriors with soft interiors.

The non-vegetarian menu is equally compelling. The timeless Butter Chicken remains a crowd favourite, while Chicken Tikka Masala offers smoky, tandoori-infused flavours. For those seeking deeper, more robust tastes, Mutton Rogan Josh and Sikandari Raan provide a rich, slow-cooked experience. Seafood lovers are not left behind, with dishes like Tandoori Prawns adding variety and depth.

One of the standout dishes we experienced was the Mutton Rogan Josh. Perfectly cooked, Tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection, the meat effortlessly falls off the bone. The gravy is rich and aromatic, layered with traditional spices that create a depth of flavour without overwhelming the palate. Each bite offers a perfect balance of warmth and richness, making it a memorable highlight of the meal. Paired with naan or jeera rice, it elevates the entire dining experience.

Complementing the main courses are staples like Dal Tadka and Jeera Rice, which bring comfort and balance to the meal. Freshly prepared Indian breads further enhance the flavours, ensuring that every dish is enjoyed to its fullest.

🍽️ Must-Try Dishes at Mirch Masala

🥗 Vegetarian Highlights

• Paneer Butter Masala – Creamy, rich tomato-based gravy with soft paneer
• Kadai Paneer – Spicy, semi-dry preparation with capsicum and bold spices
• Subz Lasuni – Mixed vegetables with a strong garlic flavour
• Patiala Kofta – Soft dumplings in a rich, indulgent gravy
• Hara Bhara Kebab – Crispy spinach and green pea patties
• Dahi Kebab – Melt-in-the-mouth yogurt kebabs with a crunchy coating

🍗 Non-Vegetarian Specialties

• Butter Chicken – Classic favourite with a smooth, buttery gravy
• Chicken Tikka Masala – Smoky tandoori chicken in a spiced curry
• Mutton Rogan Josh – Slow-cooked mutton in a rich, aromatic gravy
• Sikandari Raan – Flavourful, marinated leg of lamb
• Tandoori Prawns – Smoky, spice-marinated grilled prawns

🍚 Rice & Accompaniments

• Dal Tadka – Comforting lentils tempered with spices
• Jeera Rice – Fragrant basmati rice with cumin flavour

Beyond the food, Mirch Masala thrives on its immersive experience. Live counters, chaat stations, and themed events add to the lively ambience, making every visit feel like a celebration. Guests don’t just dine—they engage with the atmosphere.

Ginwala’s culinary journey extends beyond Mirch Masala. With ventures like Tomato’s, he introduced global cuisines to the city, from pizzas and pastas to Mexican delicacies, long before they became mainstream.

Today, Mirch Masala stands as a legacy brand, expanding across cities like Surat and Vadodara, with ambitions to go global. Backed by a strong team culture and a commitment to innovation, the brand continues to evolve while staying rooted in its core identity.

From a visionary idea to a celebrated dining destination, Rushad Ginwala has not just built restaurants—he has created experiences that continue to redefine how Ahmedabad eats and celebrates food.

Team Maverick