RESTAURANTS
1. The Bombay Canteen
Much like its name, this venue (see The Bombay Canteen) celebrates not only the city, but also the entire country, by putting a creative spin on Indian regional classics. The elegant decor, too, is in theme and inspired by heritage bungalows that once dotted Mumbai. Tickle your tastebuds with the wide range of innovative culinary delights on offer, including the much-loved Goan pulled-pork vindaloo tacos. There is also a separate Sunday brunch menu.
Elegant setting of The Bombay Canteen
2. Sea Lounge
Located inside the iconic Taj Mahal Palace hotel, this sea-view restaurant is something of an institution, and offers an ultraluxurious setting with Art Deco furniture and an old colonial vibe. Sample exquisite house favourites such as Café Viennoise or the unlimited high-tea buffet which is good value for money. In the evenings, listen to their terrific live band and take in the views of the glittering sea harbour over a glass of champagne or a cocktail.
3. Britannia & Company Restaurant
Enjoy Parsi delicacies at this historic, family-run Irani eatery (see Britannia & Company Restaurant) established back in 1923. With traditional interiors and a friendly staff, this place attracts locals and tourists alike. The caramel custard and mutton sali boti (Parsi meat dish) are bestsellers.
4. Bastian
A seafood lover’s paradise, Bastian’s extensive menu also features some delectable Japanese fare. Try the soft-shell crab, charred octopus, salmon sushi, or lobster roll. Innovative cocktails here complement the dishes beautifully. Their Sunday brunch is extremely popular, so be sure to reserve well in advance.
Gluten-free prawns at Bastian
5. The Tasting Room
Good Earth Shop, Raghuvanshi Mills, Lower Parel • 022 6528 5284 • Open 11am–8pm daily • ₹₹₹
Perfect for a casual, quiet outing, this restaurant specializes in European cuisine accompanied by an extensive wine list. The tasting plates are simple: tenderloin carpaccio, tempura shrimps and the like. The mains consist of various pasta dishes as well as richer offerings such as lamb ragu and smoked chicken risotto. Diners swear by the watermelon feta salad.
6. Café Madras
Established in 1940, this eatery (see Café Madras) is beautifully maintained and continues to serve South Indian food to its loyal clientele. Choose from a variety of paper-thin dosas (crispy rice-flour crêpes) or utthapams (savoury semolina pancakes), and end the meal with traditional filter coffee. This venue is often crowded, but the delicious cuisine more than makes up for the waiting time.
7. The Blue
Shop 1, Sai Pooja Building, Pali Hill, Bandra West • 022 2600 0888 • Open noon–3:15pm & 7–11:15pm Tue–Sun • ₹₹
This restaurant serves authentic and affordable Thai and Japanese fare. The food makes up for the ambience with items such as chicken gyoza, katsu curry, sushi and papaya salad on the menu.
8. Gajalee
Enjoy traditional Goan and Malvani coastal cuisine at its best (see Gajalee). The menu is well priced with a range of seafood. The clams masala, red snapper curry, and stir-fry crab are especially exquisite. This restaurant has also been cited as the best place in the city to eat bombil fry (flatenned Bombay duck coated in spicy batter and deep fried). Gajalee has four other outlets in the city.
9. The Table
A multiple award-winning restaurant (see The Table) that makes use of clean and organic ingredients sourced through urban farms to create the most appetizing of dishes. Inspired by the culinary delights of San Francisco, Head Chef Alex Sanchez has curated a global menu featuring artistically presented dishes, which both look and taste delightful. The separate brunch, lunch and dinner menus have exciting options such as braised-lamb hash and black truffle mac ‘n’ cheese.
Striking interiors of The Table
10. Hotel Deluxe
A hidden gem of a restaurant (see Hotel Deluxe) located among the bylanes of the Fort Area. This no-frills spot is the best place to eat wholesome South Indian cuisine on a budget in the city. Their preset, multi-course vegetarian meal, served the traditional way on a banana leaf, is a highlight. Alternatively, go à la carte with dishes such as the Kerala fish curry and the squid fry on offer.
