KARACHI has had a rich history when it comes to bakeries as the metropolis had a considerable number of shops that sold bakery items when the country came into existence. Even today, it is not unusual to see a throng of customers at bakeries known for their distinct specialities. Besides, who can resist the aroma wafting out of a bakery of freshly-baked items?

Old-school bakeries used to concentrate on just the basics — stuff like chocolate biscuits, cake rusks or even normal rusks. Items like chips and nimco were also available in these places as were good-looking and great-tasting pastries, tarts, and scrumptious patties — there was something for everyone in these joints.

Once upon a time hot cross buns were much in demand in Karachi. But sadly, with the passage of time, this delicacy has been confined to just a few shops. Moreover, some of the city’s most famous bakeries have closed down and been replaced by other commercial concerns or residential spaces. If one were to take a trip down memory lane, one would remember neighbourhood bakeries that would deliver items at your place and cater to your appetite, all within your range.

Of course many new names have appeared on the bakery scene, though some of these joints offer high-priced goodies, clearly aiming for the high-end customers. On the other hand, the remaining branches of old bakeries still sell their items proudly and at more reasonable rates because for them, it appears that the customer comes first.

Be it the famous hot cross buns or the spicy ones with currants, the ones that have butter in them or the normal bun that was fresh and always in plentiful supply, each bakery had something special to offer. There were, of course, also the cakes that made life easy when one had visitors at home; the same could be said of the delicious biscuits that were good either in the morning or in the evening.

Festive occasions meant better business for these bakeries as people snapped up bakery items to serve their guests with, along with tea or coffee. However, it appears that the advent of snack bars, burger and even pizza joints seems to have dented the popularity of these bakeries, especially the older outlets. It is also true that a huge chunk of the remaining market has been snatched by talented home-based bakers who offer to make customised cakes from the vicinity of their home as per your description and have them delivered on the said date.

Karachi may have lost many of its original bakeries, but a few old timers are still operating, especially in the Saddar area. Those nostalgic about the ‘good old days’ can still visit them and savour their favourites. While Hyderabad has its famed Bombay Bakers, Karachi also has quite a few bakeries that form part of this city’s culinary heritage. Let’s hope they stick around for a long time in this city of food lovers.

Published in Dawn October 9th, 2016