City Bakery stands as a testament to over 100 years of baking excellence in Pune. Located on a busy road and partially shaded by a tree, this humble establishment captures the essence of nostalgia and traditional Parsi culture. Despite its simple façade, the bakery holds a rich history that continues to attract patrons from all corners of the city.

Salamaat Irani, the current custodian of this legacy, is the third generation of his family to oversee the bakery. He runs the establishment alongside his son Astaad, who is a skilled pastry chef. Irani often shares anecdotes about the bakery’s past, reflecting the pride and authenticity imbued in its legacy.

The bakery was founded by Irani’s grandfather, who migrated from Iran to Pune. Though specifics about the opening date may be ambiguous, it is clear that the bakery has become an integral part of the local community, embodying a piece of home for many.

Classic Offerings and Unique Operations

The operating hours of City Bakery also reflect its traditional ethos. It opens at 6 am and closes at 1 pm, then resumes from 4 pm until 7 pm. This schedule is a far cry from the 24-hour bakery models prevalent today. Regular patrons appreciate this throwback approach, often expressing gratitude for the bakery’s continued existence and urging Irani to maintain its legacy.

Irani frequently hears heartfelt requests from loyal customers who do not want to see the bakery close. Their sentiments often echo the community’s attachment to the bakery’s unique offerings and personal touch, which cannot be found elsewhere. The bakery’s operation is steeped in authenticity, with a clear commitment to preserving traditional recipes and practices.

The menu at City Bakery features two distinct categories: traditional and modern creations. The traditional menu showcases items like khari, toast, shrewsbury biscuits, milk bread, and jeera butter, whereas the modern menu includes garlic toast, chicken puffs, and various pies. Each item reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality and time-honoured recipes.

Old Machinery and Fresh Bakes

City Bakery is distinguished not only by its recipes but also by its equipment. Many of the machines in use are nearly 50 years old and were sourced from Alang, Gujarat, known for its ship-breaking yard. These vintage machines contribute significantly to the bakery’s ability to deliver crisp baked goods, ensuring that each puff and biscuit meets long-standing quality standards.

The bakery has become a cherished destination for generations, with its customers enjoying the same classic biscuits and breads wrapped in paper. Although newer customers occasionally stop by, lured by curiosity or social media, the essence of the bakery remains unchanged. It invites patrons to appreciate the slower pace of life, offering a quaint escape from modernity.

City Bakery is not alone in preserving this legacy of traditional baking; other establishments such as Royal Bakery, Husseny Bakery, and Ramsar Bakery also share a similar commitment to timeless recipes and authentic experiences. Visitors to Pune are encouraged to make a stop at City Bakery, ensuring they leave with both delectable food and enjoyable conversations.

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