Sethi Da Dhaba was started by Mohinder Singh and his brother Manjit in February 2015 as a tribute to their late mother, Satwant Kaur. After recovering from a serious heart ailment, she had expressed her wish to open a Punjabi restaurant in Kochi. Her sudden passing motivated her sons to fulfill this dream despite having no prior experience in the restaurant business.
Focus on Healthy and Traditional Food
Mohinder stresses that the restaurant does not use ajinomoto, artificial colors, harmful chemicals, palm oil, or groundnuts in their cooking. The food is made to be both healthy and tasty. They prepare dishes like Maharaja’s Chicken using traditional recipes and slow-cooked methods, maintaining authenticity and quality.
Steady Growth in Popularity
Initially, Punjabi cuisine was new to many Malayalis, and the restaurant started with few customers. Gradually, through consistent quality and word of mouth, Sethi Da Dhaba gained popularity and today serves mostly Malayali patrons who trust their food and service.
Distinctive Ambiance and Antique Decor
The restaurant features a warm atmosphere with vintage items such as typewriters, antique radios, and a Bajaj Chetak scooter, reflecting the owners’ passion for antiques and creating a nostalgic feel for guests.
Commitment to Quality and Customer Care
Mohinder handles customer interactions personally, emphasizing respect and understanding of local preferences. The restaurant prides itself on honest service and believes cooking with pure intentions is key to success.
Cultural Integration and Local Acceptance
Mohinder appreciates the strong bond with Malayali customers and highlights Kerala’s welcoming nature. He believes that all Indians share a common identity beyond language or region, and his restaurant stands as a symbol of this cultural harmony.
Family Roots and Business Legacy
The Sethi family’s connection to Kochi began decades ago when Mohinder’s father, Harbans Singh Sethi, an IAS officer, settled in Kerala and started a successful automobile parts business. The family remains rooted in Kochi, with the next generation helping continue the restaurant’s legacy.
