"My father was forward-thinking and hard-working. He travelled a lot to taste food," says Ravi. In 1960, when Tamil Nadu was still known for idli, dosa, thaiyir sadam, and filter coffee, Vasanta Bhavan introduced Lassi, Chhole, roti, and Badam milk to their menu. During the year 1974, Vasanta Bhavan set foot in Chennai for the first time by opening opposite the Chennai East Railway Station. Young and dynamic Ravi wanted to move from the confines of Trichy to Chennai. And he wanted it to do it for good. That year was 1991.
Ravi wanted a new restaurant identity that would strike chords with the diners: "The food we serve is as good as what their mother would make them at home." Namma Veedu Vasanta Bhavan serves foods, including re-created village recipes.
Today's youth have forgotten traditional dishes, and some have not even tasted Jeeraga Sambha pongal, Raagi dosa, Jowar dosa, Kambu dosa, etc., which are rich in nutrients. We are re-creating them and spreading awareness," says Ravi.
Namma Veedu Vasanta Bhavan outlet does not use colouring agents, MSG, or used oil. Fresh vegetables, sourced centrally, are cleared scientifically, sterilised, packaged, and sent to each outlet.
Today, we proudly say that Namma Veedu Vasanta Bhavan is the only restaurant chain to have ISO 22000:2005 for its central kitchen in Chennai.
