Almost all of us know that Mumbai has always been known by its substitute names such as Dream City, Financial Capital of India, and my favourite Cosmopolitan city. Though I wasn’t born in Mumbai, I have been brought up here and after spending 22 years of my life, it’s a golden truth no other city is better than this!
I have always been that Mumbaikar girl, who has a never-ending obsession with the city’s panoramic skylines and huge skyscrapers. They really fascinate me a lot and no matter how many times I visit a spot there is something new that I always discover and it makes me feel so joyous from within that sometimes it’s hard to express in words and currently, I’m feeling that.
Coming to my agenda for today’s story, why exactly is cosmopolitan? Yes, culture, migrations, and the trade centre are just one part of calling the city with this subtle tag. But there is more to it, it’s the small things and the unique essence that makes this city a wanna-be place. One such unique aspect is its cafe and restaurants.
They are the ones who have been in the city for more than decades and have actually seen Bombay becoming Mumbai. Till now you might have understood the storyline of the blog and you are pretty much right.
I’m going to showcase to you certain cafes and restaurants which define Mumbai as so great and why each day here is nothing less than a satisfying hustle.
Leopold Cafe
Situated in the vicinity of the iconic street market of Mumbai, Colaba Causeway Market. You can always sense and observe the never-ending bustling of people, shopping, bargaining, strolling, or visiting the cafe for refreshments. The cafe is the best spot to witness the blend of typical Mumbai culture. Until 2008 the cafe was just an ordinary restaurant, during the terrorist attacks in November 2008 this cafe was one of the worst hit. The marks of bullet shots and cracks on the glass ceiling are very much visible even today. Visit this place for the best chicken sandwich and cold coffee, you are bound to enjoy the great vibe here
Cafe Mondegar
Established in 1932, this cafe is a spot which you will see the very first thing as you step on Colaba Street. Known for its vintage vibes and best-served local and continental cuisine. Considered to be the first cafe in the city to have a vintage jukebox, you would be able to transfer yourself to the olden era of the city where things happen at a slow pace. Bacon’s prawns and cheese steak burger is worth trying here.
Yazdani Bakery
Mumbai and its connection with the culture of Zoroastrians akka Parsi is long lost. They are early people who built the city of Mumbai migrating here for trade and business. Mostly they are known for their cuisine and the olden style cafes, which is my favorite by the way. The name of the cafe is derived from the city of Yazd in Iran which has a long tradition of baking and craftsmanship. It’s the essence of vintage that will attract you to this cafe, give yourself a treat of a yummy breakfast here by munching the cookies and the authentic Bun Maska. (Bread and Butter)
Salt Water Cafe
Looking for a spot in this city of fast and furious that can make you feel relaxed and enjoy your me time? Head to Salt Water Cafe known for its tranquil ambiance and rustic elements this cafe will ease your stress and calm you down with its flavourful food. Having a specialty in seafood cuisine and Italian, head out to this place to have the authentic Mumbaikar fish thali and if you are fond of pasta and pizza you won’t be disappointed.
Prithvi Cafe
One of the key things that people look up to about this city is the glamorous world, the fame of Bollywood, and the charming lifestyle. This is my observation. I have seen people talking about the actors, their lives and so much more. One of the cafes which is totally dedicated to the artist of Bollywood is Prithvi Cafe. Started by one of the oldest families in the industry, the Kapoors were just a theatre earlier but now have accumulated a cafe, library, and a museum dedicated to the Indian Cinema. Bollywood fans you just can’t miss out on going here!
The Pantry
If you are into aesthetics then your search ends here. Head to the Pantry which is known for its cozy ambience and some mouth-watering delicacies. Famous for its farm-to-table concept, find fresh bread, buns sandwiches, and salad here. Though the architecture and ambiance might give you foreign vibes, the name is so Indian that visiting here while exploring the city is a must.
The Bagel Shop
Get the vibes of New York right here in the city of Mumbai at this modern bakery shop, the Bagel. Bagel and donut-like bread rolls from the Jewish community are interesting food to hog on when you feel like munching something delicious yet sweet. Other than Bagel you can also try sandwiches, pastries and their special coffees are worth a try.
Already craving food, because I’m not for food but the urge to visit these cafes and capture astonishing yet charming glimpses. How many of these cafes have you visited? I have been to four, let me know yours.
Already craving food, because I’m not for food but the urge to visit these cafes and capture astonishing yet charming glimpses. How many of these cafes have you visited? I have been to four, let me know yours.
Travellogs 