Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is a diverse hub full of cultures, food, people and their dreams and ambitions. Not only is Bombay India’s most populous city, but it is also home to a myriad of different cuisines that have a history dating back to the early 1800s. From the heavenly, almost sinfully delicious Chicken Harissa to warm, spongy and revitalising Podi Idli’s, Bombay has got more than you can imagine! These top five restaurants are just a few of my favourites that not only have the most delicious food but also the most intriguing history.
- Cafe Leopold: Cafe Leopold was first established in 1871 by migrants from Iran, and is known to be one of the first Irani cafes in the city. Reportedly, it started as a wholesale oil store that over the years developed into a pharmacy and then the restaurant that it is today. However, it further gained popularity after surviving the 26/11 attack. When I visited the restaurant with my family, we spotted several bullet holes throughout the cafe. Regardless, it is the food that Cafe Leopold serves that’s worth the visit! In my experience, the quality and quantity of the food was astounding and my favourites were the Chicken Harissa combo meal, the chilli cheese toast and the soft and decadent blueberry cheesecake.
- Gajalee: Gajalee, first started in 1991 in Vile Parle East, now has several outlets all over Bombay. Gajalee is a classic for my family and I! Seafood lovers, you must visit this place! Although it is a little expensive, it is so worth it! Usually, my family and I love going to Gajalee right after we come back from the airport. After a long and tiring day of travelling, we love to sit down and relish the steaming hot bombil fry with their iconic chutney. A few of my other favourites are also the mutton thali, crab thali, and sol kadi, (obviously).
- Prithvi Cafe: Prithvi Cafe came into effect because of the Prithvi theatre which was the brainchild of the Bollywood star, Prithviraj Kapoor. Unfortunately, due to his death, he never witnessed his dream come true. However, his son Shashi Kapoor and his wife Jennifer Kendal set up the ‘Shri Prithviraj Kapoor Memorial Trust and Research Foundation, in honour of his memory and launched the Prithvi Theatre. In 1978, Prithvi Theatre was inaugurated and Prithvi Cafe soon became a regular gathering spot for artists and art lovers. One thing I absolutely adore about the Prithvi Cafe is how it’s a little community of it’s own, from the Prithvi Theatre to the charming and dainty bookstore next to it. It’s sort of a society but in very close quarters. However, the food is not any less impressive either, the kheema pao, chocolate chip waffles and iced mocha are just a few examples of their finger-licking food that you must try out! Although it is certainly an experience, there are a few things you should keep in mind before setting off on this voyage. Most of the time they have long waiting hours as well as slow service, and they could be more generous with their quantities… which is why it’s crucial to plan your trip accordingly in order to truly enjoy the experience.
- Shree Thaker Bhojanalay: Shree Thaker Bhojanalay was established in 1945 and is one of the top Gujarati food places that one must simply go to when they come to Mumbai. It’s famous for it’s traditional Gujarati thalis which are filled with daal, sabzi, chutneys, roti, pakodas and dessert. The ambience is welcoming and the food feels homely and uplifting. Some of their popular dishes such as Undhiyu and Aamras are great but I’m especially a fan of their Bhindi (ladyfinger) and their shrikhand which is somehow perfectly light and not overbearingly sweet, (but that could just be because I’m biased). Nevertheless, if you haven’t already then you should go try it out!
- Ramashraya: Ramashraya was set up in 1939 and can be easily spotted as it is right opposite the Matunga central station. They don’t have a traditional menu but rather write up the available items on the wall in white chalk. It’s famous for a variety of things like the quality and quantity of their food and how unbelievably affordable their food is! But most of the buzz about their food is because of their marvellous medu vadas and pineapple sheera, but two of my personal treasured choices are also the podi idlis and the neer dosa that are warm, soft and spongy and just melt in your mouth.
-Yara Peswani, A2-C.
Another Level Higher 