The Matkas tumbled into the market, stomachs gurgling on the hunt for ripest mangoes. Yet, finding the perfect mango is no simple feat. An Alphonso too green – a terrible sight. An Alphonso too soft – not quite right. And the perfect few are quickly sold to an eager queue. “Finished today,” muttered one mango-walla with a sigh. “Sold out already,” came the neighbouring cry.
ABOVE: The Matka’s were in a spot of bother.
The Chote Matkas’ little shoulders lowered. Papa Matka groaned. Mumma Matka gazed longingly at a just-emptied crate. Perhaps, no mangoes would be delighted in today.
But Aunty Alphonso had a plan: “I know just where to go!”
Into a nearby Dishoom café, they shuffled. Five bowls descended, brimming with ripest Alphonso cubes. Aunty Alphonso, faithful to the fruit in every guise, received a creamy-cool lassi, alongside. Then, a satisfied hush. A clinking of spoons.
“Perfect!” everyone sighed.
As the last polished bowls were cleared, something appeared. A wooden board. A brass pot. A single die.
"Roll a six," their server said, "and your whole family meal is on us." A huddle was called. Whispered negotiations. And then – two pairs of little hands wrapped around the pot – a shake, a rattle, and a roll.
The die skittered across the board and came to rest. A six looked back at them.
For a moment, nobody moved. Then the Chote Matkas erupted – arms flung skyward. Aunty Alphonso clapped her hands. Papa Matka punched the air excitedly. Mumma Matka laughed delightedly.
No bill came. Just the server, reappearing with little treasures tucked behind her back for the bacche (children). "These," she said, "are for the little rollers. No matter what number falls." The Chote Matkas clutched their prizes and beamed.
It had been a very good half-term outing.
ABOVE: The Matka’s win their family meal!
Win your meal and take home treasure
Play Family Matka
A shake of the pot, a roll of the dice – and a little prize to make it twice as nice. Roll a six, your meal’s on us! (Yes, the whole bill, for tables of up to 12.) And no matter the number rolled, there are pocket-sized treasures for all children.
Dine in any Dishoom café with little ones (under 11 years of age), on weekdays between Monday 25th May and Friday 29th May 2026. Book a table (or walk in), simply ask to play Family Matka when seated and request your bill before 6pm.
See full terms and conditions.
