Cafe Mondegar Mumbai: Guide To Mondy's, The Soul Of Colaba Causeway

If Colaba Causeway is the heart of shopping and sightseeing in Mumbai, then Cafe Mondegar, or more fondly known as Mondy's, is its soul. With its old charm, excellent food, the iconic jukebox, and retro murals, Cafe Mondegar Colaba has attracted both locals and tourists since 1932. Whether you're headed there for a hearty breakfast, a chilled beer, or just the cafe atmosphere, Mondy's offers an experience as vibrant as Mumbai itself.

Cafe Mondegar is not just any café; it has become a part of Mumbai's history. The first one to introduce a jukebox, it was originally founded in the reception area of the Apollo Hotel as an Irani café. Rarely did it undergo any major transformation until the 1990s, which witnessed it being painted with colourful murals by Mario Miranda, the legendary Goan cartoonist, whose sketches portray both Mumbai and the vibrant life of the café.

Owned by the Yazdegardi family, Mondegar has been a cultural hub of sorts for a few decades. Being located at Colaba Causeway, just a stone's throw away from the Gateway of India, it is an ideal pitstop for tourists looking to explore the age-old charm of South Mumbai.  

When you enter Mondy's, a whole artistic wonderland unfolds right before your eyes. Miranda's murals playfully portray scenes of Mumbai life along with the cafe's own lively vibes. One wall displays the chaos and charm of the city, while another presents all the cheerful camaraderie at Mondegar.

And the jukebox, of course, still runs while sitting cosily in a corner with its shiny lights and classic songs waiting to be played. The servers are always smiling and readily come to us to refill our beer. And if it’s a lucky day, you even get Cafe Mondegar’s postcards to take home.

Cafe Mondegar features a variety of cuisines, Indian, continental, and Goan. Although it's a haven for beer lovers, what's equally great here is the food!

It opens up as early as 8 AM, so if you’ve stumbled from a long night out or are just looking for a heavy breakfast, you know where to head. Here are some things we highly recommend:

- Omelets and other English breakfast items are undoubtedly favourites among the breakfast offerings at this place.

- Visit Mondy's to try the special Steak Cheeseburger.

- The King Prawns and the Bacon-wrapped Prawns should not be missed if you are a seafood lover.

- Their all-time classics like roast beef, arrabbiata penne pasta, and chilli beef are sure to satisfy.

- And of course, a full pint of draft beer or a tall glass of chilled coffee complements all the food.

Often featuring live music, this café serves as the city's social and entertainment venue. Get there early to grab seats by the murals and the jukebox while you pose for that gram-worthy picture. 

Rating: 4.4/5

Timings: 8 AM to 11:30 PM

Social Media: Instagram

Must-try Dishes: Fluffy Omelette, Kheema Ghotala, Draft Beer, King Prawns, Cold Coffee

Cost for Two: INR 1700