South Indian lifestyle has been a very much part of our lives for more than a decade. Especially the breakfast, from Idli, Dosa, Appam to Filter Coffee (Kafi). Doesn’t matter if you don’t belong to Southern India, but your week is still filled with the authentic breakfast from that region!
I got to indulge in the roots of Southern India during my graduation days. No, I didn’t migrate to the southern part of the region, instead, South India came closer to me than too in City of Dreams, Mumbai. Yes, the city has mini South India proudly known as Matunga!
Matunga is one such area of Mumbai that has its hold partially in both the central and western parts of the city. I did hear about this place earlier but got to live through it during my college days.
Those were the days when I learnt to live a proper Mumbaikar life, from travelling in crowded locals and running to college to not being late to college and understanding the raw essence of this city.
Other than being called mini–South India, it is also proudly known as a foodies’ paradise. Because you get every cuisine here. From Chinese, North Indian, Gujarati, and South Indian to authentic Iranian cuisine as well.
Recently I got to relive my golden days of college, when me and one of my friend reunited to revive that period and feel nostalgic. From having breakfast and filter Kafi at our favourite restaurant, walking through bustling streets, savouring ourselves with our favourite Nimbu Pani to walking through the narrow pavements of old vintage houses we did it all.
Here’s a small guide aka recommendation of what to do, where to go and how to make your mornings extraordinary on a lazy and casual weekend.
Shree Ramnarayan Temple
Start your day with a visit to the Shree Ramnarayan Temple. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture provide a perfect setting for some morning meditation or quiet reflection. This south Indian temple will take you to the laid-back life of Tamil Nadu where every morning you will listen to the echoes of hymns and chants in Sanskrit making your heart feel the peaceful aura.
Matunga Market
Matunga has always been a bustling area of Central Mumbai even in the morning. You will find vendors calling you out to immerse yourself slice of local life, and head to the Matunga Market. This bustling spot is alive with vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It’s a feast for the senses and a great place to pick up some local produce or flowers.
Rama Ashraya
My soul relies on Ram Ashraya. A fantastic food spot for breakfast is Rama Ashraya. Known for its delectable South Indian fare, you can savour dishes like Upma, Vada, Neer Dosa and Pineapple Sheera. The friendly ambience and delicious food make it a must-visit. I got nostalgic when I stood out of the restaurant, how me and friends used to enjoy our breakfast or lunch sessions before and during college days.
Mani’s Cafe
Another iconic eatery in Matunga is Mani’s Cafe. Known for its authentic South Indian flavours, this spot offers a cosy and nostalgic dining experience, especially the filter coffee. I have lots of anecdotes standing outside Mani’s talking, giggling, discussing and laughing my heart out. Indeed, those were the golden days of life.
Ruia College Campus
Taking a stroll in and around the Ruia College campus is also a must-do activity. The lush, green grounds and historic buildings provide a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Ruia Katta is the perfect spot to sit, chit-chat with my gang, get views of free live cricket matches and see the time pass during the early hours of the day was a routine for me during my college.
Sai Juice Centre
Feeling thirsty? Stop by the Sai Juice Centre for a refreshing drink. Their fresh fruit juices and smoothies are perfect for recharging after your morning adventures. Don’t miss their seasonal specials! This was the shop that made me fall in love with the lemonade (Nimbu Pani). No matter how full my tummy gets there is always a little space for my favourite drink that too from the owner of the shop who has been running this for more than 65 years. Going there, meeting him and walking down `memory lane with him was so fun.
Matunga Flyover Garden
For a peaceful retreat, visit Matunga FloyoverGarden. This well-maintained garden offers a serene environment with beautiful plants and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a lovely place to unwind and soak in some morning tranquillity. In a simple way to make you understand what this garden is all about, this is a flyover garden giving a unique space for locals to come sit, jog carry out their workout routine and relax for a bit. I enjoyed sitting there and having a slow-paced conversation with my friend!
Matunga is indeed very special to me and always will be! No matter where I go my heart will always be found in the narrow streets of Matunga which are filled with silence, the silence of unheard conversations and known yet always something new type of story.
Want to do something exciting in City of Dreams? Then why not experience the essence of South India? Head to Matunga and you never know what could catch your attention and make you fall in love with it.
Till then Happy Sundaying!
Travellogs 