Exploring Mumbai's Culinary Landscape With Its 10 Timeless, Iconic Restaurants

Leopold Cafe was established in 1871, and throughout the years, it has witnessed the transformation of Mumbai. It also survived events like the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks and still has bullet holes in its glass, as a sign of respect and memorium. The cafe is a cultural landmark that has been featured in numerous books, films, and travel guides.

What To Order: Make sure you try out their chicken sizzler, and fish and chips.

Timings: 7.30 AM to 12 AM

Cost For Two: INR 2500

In 1923, Rashid Kohinoor was the one to establish Britannia & Co., one of the oldest and most iconic Irani cafes in Mumbai with a heritage that has spanned several decades. The chequered tablecloths and wooden furniture of the bygone era reflect the place’s long history. It is renowned for serving authentic Parsi cuisine, and signature dishes like berry pulao, sali boti, dhansak, and caramel custard. Over the years, the place has received acclaim for its culinary front and has been lauded by several food guides and publications.

Timings: 11.30 AM to 4 PM

Cost For Two: INR 100

Café Mondegar or Mondy’s is a well-known restaurant and bar which was inaugurated in 1932. Its proximity to popular landmarks such as the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel makes it a preferred spot for tourists. The interiors of Mondy’s are adorned with colourful murals that depict scenes of the local life in Mumbai. It also has a retro ambience with chequered floor tiles, a jukebox, and vintage decor, adding to its nostalgic charm.

What To Order: The chicken sausage sizzler served at the place is a signature dish, but you can also try their burgers, sandwiches, kebabs, and beverages.

Timings: 8 AM to 11.30 PM 

Cost For Two: INR 1700

Kyani & Co. was established by Khodram Marezban in 1904, making it one of the oldest and most celebrated Iranian eateries in Mumbai. The quaint atmosphere coupled with marble-topped tables and other vintage furniture offer a glimpse into the city’s bygone era. They also have an in-house bakery that produces delicious pastries, cakes, and biscuits, and the most popular items here are their mawa cake and Shrewsbury biscuits.

What To Order: Their classic dishes like bun maska, irani chai, along with kheema pav have remained a favourite.

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM 

Cost For Two: INR 300

Copper Chimney nails North Indian cuisine and has been serving the locals since 1972. The warm and inviting ambience with the contemporary interiors is its distinct character. It also offers an innovative twist to some classic dishes, appealing to a diverse palate, hence you are bound to see this place packed with customers.

What To Order: You’ll love the succulent kebabs, flavourful bread, curries, biryanis, and tandoori preparations here.

Timings: 12 PM to 3.30 PM, 7 PM to 11.30 PM 

Cost For Two: INR 1,600

Bandra’s popular and eclectic eatery, Candies, was established in 2001 by Allan and Rhea Bhatiwala. The once-small bakery has now grown into a multi-cuisine restaurant and a trendy hangout spot for the locals and visitors. The quirky and mismatched furniture with artistic decor gives the place a joyous appeal. They serve baked goods like croissants, muffins, fresh bread, and cookies which are often praised for their excellent taste and quality.

What To Order: Candies is also a great choice for health-conscious people, as their menu also consists of salads, smoothies, and low-fat dishes.

Timings: 8.30 AM to 10.30 PM 

Cost For Two: INR 800

Bademiya is a renowned street food stall that has gained immense popularity over the years. It is typically set up in the evenings on Tulloch Road and offers a variety of kebabs including chicken, mutton, and paneer that are skewered and grilled to perfection. The kebabs are served with onions, mint chutney, and lemon wedges, and are enjoyed by food enthusiasts who love to explore the city at late hours.

Timings: 11 AM to 4 AM

Cost For Two: INR 500

Kailash Parbat was founded in 1952 and is praised for its Punjabi and Mumbai street food cuisine that leaves you craving more! Moreover, it is a part of the Chatkazz chain, famous for its vegetarian delicacies like pani puri, bhel puri, sev puri, chole bhature, raj kachori, and pav bhaji. You must try out their dessert options as well, such as gulab jamun, jalebi, rabri.

What To Order: Their signature dish, Kailash Parbat Special Ice Cream Sundae is a must-have.

Timings: 11 AM to 11 PM

Cost For Two: INR 500

If you love seafood, Trishna should undoubtedly be on your list, with its stellar coastal cuisine. The restaurant was established in 1969 and is known for its Malvani seafood preparations. Here you can try their butter garlic crab, tandoori prawns, and pomfret fry to have the best coastal dining experience. The relaxed and casual atmosphere of the place makes you feel at home and lets you enjoy the authentic spices that adorn fresh seafood.

Timings: 12 PM to 3:30 PM, 6 PM to 12 AM

Cost For Two: INR 2500

If you’re looking forward to enjoying authentic Maharashtrian food in Mumbai, Prakash Upahar Kendra will take you by surprise. This establishment in the heart of Mumbai is a favourite among the locals, as it has been consistently delivering high-quality Maharashtrian food. Their sabudana vada, misal, and traditional drinks like Piyush are a must-try on their menu. Moreover, the desserts they offer are unique and embody the spirit of Maharashtra’s cuisine, these include dink ladoo, sheera, and khawas.

Timings: 7.30 AM to 9.45 PM

Cost For Two: INR 150