Kalu Baba Thali: A Taste of Rajasthan in Tel Aviv

In the heart of Tel Aviv’s vibrant Florentin neighborhood, a remarkable culinary story unfolds twice weekly as Sumit Sharma, affectionately known as Kalu Baba, transforms a modest space into a portal to Pushkar, Rajasthan. His pop-up restaurant has become a beloved destination for both Indian expatriates seeking authentic flavors and Israeli food enthusiasts eager to experience genuine Rajasthani cuisine.

From Pushkar to Israel: A Love Story Through Food

Kalu Baba’s journey to Israel began in 2013 when he met his future Israeli wife while operating a restaurant in the sacred city of Pushkar, Rajasthan. This chance encounter would eventually lead him to relocate to Israel, initially settling in Sde Nehemia, a kibbutz in the Upper Galilee, before establishing a restaurant in Kiryat Shmona.

The chef’s path took an unexpected turn in 2024 when escalating security concerns and missile threats in northern Israel forced him to temporarily close his Kiryat Shmona location. Rather than abandon his culinary mission, Kalu Baba adapted with remarkable resilience, launching a pop-up operation in Tel Aviv’s artistic Florentin district.

Authentic Rajasthani Thali Experience

The Menu: Traditional Flavors, Authentic Preparation

Kalu Baba’s specialty lies in the traditional Rajasthani thali - a complete meal served on brass plates that showcases the diverse flavors and textures of desert cuisine. His vegetarian offerings include:

Classic Thali Components: - Dal Baati Churma - the signature Rajasthani dish featuring lentil curry with baked wheat balls and sweet crumbled mixture - Kadhi - spiced yogurt curry with gram flour dumplings - Seasonal vegetable curries prepared with traditional spice blends - Homemade chutneys and pickles - Fresh rotis and rice - Traditional sweets and desserts

Each dish is prepared using time-honored techniques passed down through generations in Pushkar, ensuring authenticity that transports diners to the colorful streets of Rajasthan.

Cultural Fusion Elements

While maintaining strict adherence to traditional recipes, Kalu Baba has incorporated subtle adaptations learned from his Israeli experience. His interactions with local patrons have led to interesting fusion elements, including techniques borrowed from Israeli hummus preparation that enhance certain curry textures without compromising authenticity.

The Florentin Experience

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The pop-up operates in true Florentin style - unpretentious yet vibrant, reflecting the neighborhood’s reputation as Tel Aviv’s bohemian heart. Visitors describe a space adorned with Indian textiles, filled with the sounds of Bollywood music, and permeated with the aromatic spices of Rajasthani cooking.

The dining experience emphasizes community and cultural exchange, with Kalu Baba often engaging personally with guests, sharing stories of his journey from Pushkar to Israel and explaining the cultural significance of each dish.

Operating Schedule

The pop-up currently operates twice weekly, leveraging Tel Aviv’s cosmopolitan food scene while maintaining the intimate, authentic atmosphere that has made it a local sensation. The limited schedule has created a sense of exclusivity that draws regular patrons and curious newcomers alike.

Cultural Bridge and Community Impact

Serving Multiple Communities

Kalu Baba’s restaurant serves as a unique cultural bridge, attracting diverse clientele:

Israeli Travelers: Many customers are Israelis who discovered Indian cuisine during post-military service travels to India, particularly those familiar with Pushkar’s backpacker scene.

Indian Expatriates: The restaurant provides a taste of home for India’s growing community in Israel, offering authentic flavors often difficult to find elsewhere in the country.

Local Food Enthusiasts: Tel Aviv’s adventurous dining scene has embraced Kalu Baba’s authentic approach, with food bloggers and culinary influencers regularly featuring his story.

Media Recognition and Social Media Presence

Kalu Baba’s story has gained significant media attention, with his Instagram account (@kalubabathali) showcasing both his culinary creations and the cross-cultural exchanges that define his restaurant. YouTube food vloggers have praised his “desi” charm and the exceptional quality of his traditional preparations.

The restaurant has been featured in collaborations with notable food personalities, including cookbook author Adeena Sussman, highlighting its growing influence in Tel Aviv’s culinary landscape.

Resilience and Adaptation

Overcoming Challenges

Kalu Baba’s transition from a permanent restaurant in northern Israel to a pop-up in Tel Aviv exemplifies the resilience required of businesses operating in challenging environments. His ability to maintain quality and authenticity while adapting to new circumstances demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit that characterizes many immigrant-owned businesses in Israel.

The move to Florentin has actually enhanced his visibility and accessibility, placing his authentic Rajasthani cuisine in the heart of Tel Aviv’s most dynamic neighborhood.

Future Prospects

While currently operating as a pop-up, Kalu Baba’s growing popularity and loyal following suggest potential for expansion. His success demonstrates the appetite for authentic ethnic cuisine in Tel Aviv’s diverse food scene.

Practical Information

Location: Florentin neighborhood, Tel Aviv (specific address varies as pop-up location) Operating Schedule: Twice weekly (check Instagram @kalubabathali for current schedule) Cuisine Type: Vegetarian Rajasthani/North Indian Specialties: Traditional thali meals, dal baati churma, seasonal curries Price Range: Moderate (typical thali meals range from 60-80 shekels) Reservations: Follow social media for announcements and booking information

A Culinary Ambassador

Kalu Baba represents more than just another restaurant in Tel Aviv’s competitive dining scene. His story embodies the broader narrative of cultural exchange between India and Israel, facilitated through the universal language of food. By maintaining authentic preparation methods while adapting to local preferences and circumstances, he has created a unique dining experience that honors his Rajasthani heritage while embracing his adopted Israeli home.

For visitors seeking genuine Indian cuisine beyond the typical curry house experience, Kalu Baba’s thali offers an authentic journey to Pushkar’s vibrant food culture, served with the warmth and hospitality that defines both Rajasthani and Israeli dining traditions.

The success of this humble pop-up demonstrates Tel Aviv’s openness to authentic ethnic cuisine and the power of personal stories to create meaningful culinary experiences. As Kalu Baba continues to serve his traditional thalis in Florentin, he not only feeds his customers but also builds bridges between cultures, one meal at a time.

For more information about businesses in the Asian community, visit our businesses section. Follow @kalubabathali on Instagram for current operating schedule and location updates.