On a perfect summer afternoon in Rajkot, my plan was to visit the Gandhi Museum — but before that, I wanted to get a true flavour of the city. Gujarat feels incomplete without surrendering to the irresistible call of chilled lassi and gola from the streets.

Recently, I found myself drawn to the city’s iconic spot, Saheb Golawala — also known as Saheb Lassi and Gola — a legendary name that has been serving happiness since 1971. Nestled in the bustling lanes, likely around areas like Jubilee Chowk, Soni Bazaar, or Jamnagar Road, this modest street-side stall is impossible to miss.

The large signboard proudly declares “Saheb” in bold letters, with its iconic yellow circle logo featuring a golden bowl and promises of juices and sherbets as well. The logo showcases a bowl full of creamy lassi. The setup is classic Gujarati street food — colourful bottles filled with syrups, jars of fresh ingredients, a big freezer humming away, and a couple of hardworking men whipping up treats nonstop.

I started with the star of Gujarat — lassi. Thick, creamy, and frothy, it arrived in a tall glass with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Made from fresh curd, a touch of sugar, and perhaps a hint of cardamom or rose, it was refreshingly cool on a hot day. Sipping it slowly while watching the street buzz around me — rickshaws honking, shoppers bargaining nearby, and the aroma of street snacks mixing in the air — was pure bliss. It’s the kind of lassi that cools your throat and instantly beats the heat.

But the real fun began with the gola. These are not your average shaved ice treats. At Saheb, they elevate it with generous portions and creative flavours. I went for a classic kala khatta with a slight masala twist first — tangy, spicy, and sweet all at once, with that signature black salt kick. The ice was finely shaved, packed tight, and drizzled with vibrant syrups from the endless bottles lining the shelf.

Saheb Golawala

For round two, I tried a dry fruit malai gola loaded with nuts and cream — rich, indulgent, and surprisingly satisfying.

What makes these street experiences special in Rajkot is the vibe. It’s casual, no-frills, and full of life. People of all ages gather — kids with sticky fingers, families sharing one big gola, and uncles like the one I spotted savouring every spoonful with a big grin. The vendors are quick, friendly, and know exactly how to customise your order — extra cream? Masala on top? No problem.

Prices are wallet-friendly, the portions are large and generous, and the quality is consistent. That’s why places like Saheb have loyal fans across generations. In a city known for its vibrant food scene, this spot stands out for keeping traditions alive while offering instant cool relief.

If you are in Rajkot, especially during the warmer months, make a beeline for Saheb Golawala. Grab a lassi and sip it as you wander the streets of this proudly Gujarati city.