If you’ve never been to an Iranian cafe, you’re truly missing out on one of the most amazing experiences Mumbai has to offer. Whether it’s for a quick, takeaway brekkie or a filling lunch, Mumbaikars find solace in Irani cafes. These cafes, founded by Zoroastrian Irani immigrants escaping religious persecution, have become an integral part of Mumbai’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you try Irani chai, bun maska, or caramel custard, you’re for a treat. This guide will introduce you to the best Iranian cafes in Mumbai. If not all, try out at least one of these awesome places!
8 Irani Cafes In Mumbai That Are Approved By The Locals!
Kyani & Co, Marine Lines
Established in 1904, Kyani & Co. is an iconic eatery that has been serving delicious treats for generations. It is one of the oldest Irani cafes and truly worth a visit. The restaurant is often frequented by tourists and locals like office-goers because of its location which is accessible through stations nearby. The eatery is spacious and has enough table seating. While you're there, try their popular Parsi buttery bun maska and chai along with the mawa cake that is super soft and sweet. To end your meal, don’t forget to have the legendary Pallonji soda here!
Price For Two: INR 300
Google Rating: 4.1
Timing: Mon to Sat, 7 AM to 7 PM; Sun, 7 AM to 4 PM
Sassanian, Marine Lines
While naming Irani cafes of Mumbai, we feel like Sassanian is often overlooked and is left off the list. But this legendary restaurant offers a taste of Persia in the heart of Mumbai and is a must-visit. The cafe is very close to Kyani & Co (walking distance) and has been serving authentic Iranian cuisine since 1914. Their keema pav, which is a flavourful blend of minced meat and bread, is a local favourite. You can pair it with their special Irani chai or just call for their caramel custard, which uses the same recipe as 1914.
Price For Two: INR 400
Google Rating: 4.0
Timing: Mon to Sat, 7 AM to 9 PM
B. Merwan & Co, Grant Road
Another beloved Irani cafe that opened its doors in the year 1914, B. Merwan & Co. is most popularly known as the ideal breakfast spot. This eatery is the epitome of easily accessible Parsi food and we doubt there's anything you will not like here. The ambience and menu is as traditional as it gets. It's fairly crowded in the morning and their items get sold in a flash. Clean and well-maintained since ages, the place is synonymous with mouthwatering cakes. We recommend you try their mawa cake, mawa kachori, patties, and egg akuri.
Price For Two: INR 100
Google Rating: 3.6
Timing: Mon to Sat, 7 AM to 6 PM
Jimmy Boy, Fort
Always packed by loyal visitors, Jimmy Boy is personally one of our favourite Irani cafes in Mumbai. Started in 1925, it's an oldie but a goodie, with far fancier decor than any other Irani cafe. It is a go-to restaurant for college and office-goers because of the easily accessible location in Fort. Their Berry Pulao, fragrant rice with meat and tangy berries, is a must-try. You can also try their Sali Boti, mutton in gravy with crispy potato straws. But what really stood out to us was their caramel custard. Take our word for it—it's one of the best in town.
Price For Two: INR 800
Google Rating: 4.3
Timing: Mon to Sat, 8 AM to 11 PM; Sun, 8 AM to 4 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM
Britannia & Co, Ballard Estate
Britannia & Co is one of the most iconic Irani cafes in Mumbai. Often frequented by celebrities, tourists, office-goers, and locals, this restaurant has been housed inside a colonial bungalow since 1923 and nothing has changed since then. It's usually a full house and you're lucky if you find a seat during the busy time. They have an extensive menu and you should definitely try their Parsi delicacies like chicken salli and dhansak. The berry pulao they serve has berries sourced all the way from Iran and is a crowd-favourite.
P.S. They accept payment in cash only!
Price For Two: INR 1000
Google Rating: 4.4
Timing: Mon to Fri, 11:30 AM to 4 PM; Sat, 11:30 AM to 5 PM
Cafe De La Paix, Girgaum
A lesser-known Irani cafe in Mumbai, Cafe De La Paix deserves a special mention for serving no-frills, authentic Parsi cuisine since its establishment in 1935. The café, located on the bustling streets of Girgaum, is well-known for its Persian-style breakfast spread. The menu includes sali par Eedu and akuri bhurji, as well as speciality dishes such as sukha mutton, kheema pav and chicken masala. Their tea pairs best with bun maska and khari biscuits.
Price For Two: INR 400
Google Rating: 4.2
Timing: Mon to Sat, 8 AM to 9 PM
Cafe Military, Fort
Cafe Military is a popular hangout spot for both locals and tourists. And despite its name, this is a place for peaceful indulgence. We love how the walls here are adorned with photographs that narrate the story of the cafe's history. Ever since the restaurant opened its doors, Mumbaikars have found their kheema pav and akuri very comforting. People say their chai is always hot and flavourful, and their coffee, which is brewed exactly the same way since 1933, is strong enough to wake you up.
Price For Two: INR 500
Google Rating: 4.1
Timing: Mon to Sat, 10 AM to 9 PM
Koolar & Co, Matunga
Koolar & Co. may be a lesser-known gem, but it's definitely worth seeking out. This old-style, cosy Irani cafe serves delectable Parsi cuisine and is often frequented by people during lunchtime. Although Matunga is known for its South-Indian cuisine, you cannot miss out on trying Koolar & Co's Parsi menu while you're there. Everything is super delicious here, be it their piping hot Irani chai, bun maska, Irani Wrestler omelette, root beer, or even caramel custard pudding.
Price For Two: INR 400
Google Rating: 3.5
Timing: Mon to Sun, 8:30 AM to 11 PM
LBB Tip
Most of these Irani cafes are quite old and only accept cash payment.
