In a bustling city like Dhaka, finding peaceful moments can be a challenge. Residents often seek out serene spots where they can unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Just a short distance from Mirpur 1 Circle, Mirpur Beribadh provides a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
Located adjacent to Tamanna World Family Park, a row of temporary food stalls serving warm rice, assorted mashed dishes, lentils, and fried fish line the area at Mirpur Beribadh. Among these eateries stands Rofik Miyar Bhorta O Bhaater Hotel, affectionately known as Rofik Kakar Bhorta-Bhaater Hotel by the locals.
Upon arrival at the establishment, visitors are greeted by the expansive sky, gentle breezes from the nearby river, and a serene setting where families gather for leisurely afternoons and meals. The eatery is modest in appearance, featuring a tin-roofed kitchen, a serving counter manned by “Rofik kaka,” and a spacious outdoor area with plastic tables and chairs set amidst lush greenery.
Sharing the establishment’s history, Md Rofik Miya revealed, “We established this eatery with the aim of offering customers a taste of home-cooked meals.” Reflecting on the early days, Md Ajom, Rofik’s youngest son, reminisced, “When we first set up here, Mirpur Beribadh was desolate. There was limited connectivity to the city, and transportation was challenging.”
Initially catering to local boatmen, the eatery transitioned from selling street snacks to offering comforting home-style rice and mashed dishes, starting with basic combinations like rice-potato mash-lentils. “All the recipes were handed down by my mother,” Ajom shared with a smile.
What began as a humble food stop for boatmen evolved into a popular destination for families and food enthusiasts alike. Visitors from across Dhaka frequent the eatery not just for the food but for the nostalgic comfort of homemade meals.
A regular patron, businessman Waliullah, expressed, “I visit this place frequently. The mashed dishes are what keep me coming back.” The eatery offers a Tk 100 meal package comprising ten varieties of mashed dishes served in generous portions, along with fried fish options.
Milon, a long-time staff member, expertly fried fish in a large pan, highlighting the popularity of tilapia among customers. “While tilapia may not be favored elsewhere, it’s a top choice here,” he noted. Additionally, the eatery serves hilsa, koral, prawns, and pomfrets, with pricing based on size.
The tilapia, priced at Tk 200, impressed with its fresh, crispy texture and perfectly cooked interior. The mashed dishes boasted a fresh and comforting taste, with each variation offering a subtle difference in spice level that enticed diners to indulge further. Simple yet flavorful spices characterized the dishes, embodying the essence of honest, home-cooked cuisine.
As the afternoon progressed, more families arrived, enjoying conversations while awaiting their meals. The eatery’s charm lies in its unassuming ambiance, offering a welcoming environment surrounded by nature and serving meals that evoke a sense of home.
Despite its proximity to the bustling city center, Mirpur Beribadh provides a tranquil respite with its timeless appeal of rice and mashed dishes. Families flock to this beloved spot not just for a meal but to rekindle connections in a peaceful setting.
Operating from 1 PM until before maghrib adhan, the eatery exclusively offers lunch items to its patrons.
