Durban heritage • Vegetarian • Since 1911

Unmistakably Patels.
The Original Taste.

A flavour shaped by more than a century of Durban history — with vegetarian bunny chow, curries, chilli bites and sweetmeats.

Our History

Our History: A Durban story, served in a loaf of bread.

Patels Vegetarian is part of the culinary history of Durban's Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street/formerly Grey Street, and is widely associated with the early story of bunny chow.

Patels Vegetarian Refreshment Room traces its stablishment to 1911. In 1932, Ranchodrama Patel, initially worked at the refreshment room, and later became its owner.

The exact origin of bunny chow is debated, but Patels is frequently cited as one of the earliest places associated with the dish — and family accounts specifically connect the restaurant to its creation. The story tells of curry being served in hollowed bread as a practical takeaway meal during an era of racial segregation.

“When you have a legacy, you have a responsibility to carry it on.”
Inside Patels Vegetarian Refreshment Room, Durban — black and white historical photograph
Contact us

Two Patels locations.

Use the circular map links for directions, or call the Durban CBD store directly.

Patel Vegetarian Refreshment Room

Address: 202 Dr Yusuf Dadoo St, Durban Central, Durban, 4001
Tel: 031 306 1774

Get directions →
SundayClosed
Monday6 am–2 pm
Tuesday6 am–2 pm
Wednesday6 am–2 pm
Thursday6 am–2 pm
Friday6 am–2 pm
Saturday6 am–2 pm

Patel's Vegetarian Phoenix

Address: Starwood Mall, Phoenix, 3 Andromeda St, Phoenix, Durban, 4068

Get directions →
Sunday8:30 am–1 am
Monday8:30 am–3 pm
Tuesday8:30 am–3 pm
Wednesday8:30 am–3 pm
Thursday8:30 am–3 pm
Friday8:30 pm–12 am
Saturday12 am–3 pm