The Maximum city has an amalgamation of different cuisines from across India and also the globe. Mumbai has always been a city which boasts a diverse food culture because people from all over India reside in the financial capital, and food is a very important part of any culture. Besides the new age fusion food and western influenced cuisines, the city still preserves and values the food and beverages which have been feeding souls since Mumbai was ‘Bombay’. Classic restaurants, cafes are still as popular as before, maybe more because in this concrete jungle, these places are lush green mangroves!
I’ve selected a few outlets which remind me of vintage Mumbai and they keep the new age connected to the good old days.
Opened in the 1920s, this Irani restaurant boasts beige and ivory coloring, checkered tablecloths and large whirring ceiling fans.
Started by the Kohinoors, Britannia and Co. is now being run by the third generation of the family. They serve the cuisine of the Parsi and Irani people who migrated from Iran to India during the 19th century. Britannia is renowned for its berry pulav, dhansak (lamb pieces in dhal), and sali boti (lamb with potato straws). The beverage of choice is the raspberry soda, not commonly available at other city restaurants and every person in Mumbai should definitely try this soda out. To people coming to Mumbai from other cities, Britannia is a must visit as the restaurant still embraces the history and old 'Bombay' culture.
Location: Wakefield House, 11 Sprott Road, 16 Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai
Gaylord has been in business since 1956 and is one of Mumbai's oldest and still flourishing standalone restaurants. It was apparently also the first restaurant in India to have an open-air bakery. The menu has both Indian and Continental dishes, and the premises are divided into an old-world outdoor garden patio and larger indoor air-conditioned space. The menu was redone in mid-2016 but retains its north Indian favorites (including a decent butter chicken, rogan josh, and lasooni fish tikka). Dome, one of Mumbai's best rooftop bars, is just around the corner!
Location: Mayfair Building, VN Road, Churchgate, Mumbai
Established by Mr. S.C. Karkera in 1977; Mahesh Lunch Home has spearheaded Mangalorean food culture to newer heights. Mahesh Lunch Home has now become one of the most desired restaurants for satiating Mangalorean Seafood hunger, for celebrities and families alike. Being the first restaurant in Mumbai to serve authentic Mangalorean food.
Since their beginning in late 70's, whence serving only a few dishes, one of the most important being surmai curry, which many of the guests still remember devouring in our prime restaurant at Fort, Mumbai; we have expanded and proudly bring to you seven top-notch restaurants globally.
Location: 8 B, Cawasji Patel Street, Fort, Mumbai and three others (Juhu, Vashi, Sakinaka)
Leopold Cafe was set up just a few years after the sepoy mutiny of 1857. They’ve been serving in Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) since 1871 and have never failed to dish out the most delicious food even for a day. People go to Leopold’s not only because it’s so old, but the quality of the food is quite dependable. This multi-cuisine restaurant serves everything under the sun. From your Chinese favourites to Italian specialities, they do it all!
Location: 8 B, Cawasji Patel Street, Fort, Mumbai and 3 other outlets
This canteen in a hidden bylane across from a train station is noisy and messy, but also bright, breezy, and joyful. The food is basic: unlimited servings of coconut-rich vegetables and lentils served on a banana leaf with freshly fried puri and rice.. The menu hasn't changed since 1942 because old is gold, right? Udupi food has been a part of Mumbai culture for years and people still give tremendous importance to a wholesome udupi meal.
Location: 1st Floor, LBS Market Building, Near Matunga Central Railway Station, Matunga East, Mumbai
There are many others with the likes of Military Cafe, Pancham Puriwala, Yazdani Restaurant & Bakery and more which have served the city for years. To whoever is new to the city, if you want to experience the good old days of the city, a meal at one of these places is a must. After all, old is gold.
Share
Tweet
