A French Bistro & Books At 70% Off: 5 Cool Things To Do In Deccan Gymkhana

India Imprints has been one of our favourite finds, this year. An ethnic lifestyle store, India Imprints focuses on products produced by local artisans from across the country, you’ll find clothing, handcrafted jewellery, all-natural bath and body products, pottery, and much more. We love the variety here and think you will too. Read our full recommendation here.

Surmay is a little-known seafood eatery, serving ‘authentic Malwani seafood thalis’ at Deccan Mall. They also serve veg, mutton, and chicken dishes – but the highlight here is the variety of seafood. We think you should try the surmai or rawas thali, Kolambi prawns fry, bombil fry, and the crab thali (on select days). Wash it down with a glass of their chilled solkadhi and you’re good to go! Meals here will fill you up without being heavy on your wallet.

Over 30+ years old, BookWorld is a beloved bookstore that houses a vast collection of published works – from literary classics to modern-day comics, and even academic titles. It might take you a bit of hunting to find what you want, but we think it’s worth the effort. Last year they announced that they would be shutting shop soon, and have been running a massive clearance sale ever since – with discounts ranging from 10% – 70% off on their entire inventory. They’re currently open on all days except Mondays, so make the most of their sale while you can!

Hong Kong Lane is a small ‘fashion street’ of sorts, located just off FC Road in the Deccan Gymkhana area. Here you’ll find everything from shoes and belts, to mobile phone cases, junk jewellery, and even name-brands like Nike, Diesel, Reebok, Adidas – all at bargain prices. Remember: the key to a successful shopping trip here is to negotiate!

Le Plaisir on Prabhat Road is a European-French style bistro, and one of our favourite places in the city. From breakfast muffin sandwiches to steaming hot soups, crunchy-fresh salads, small and big plates, pasta and risottos, hot & cold beverages and decadent desserts – Le Plaisir serves gorgeous food for every mood. If you can try only one thing on their menu, make it their espresso pannacotta – you can thank us later. Read our full recommendation here.

Also in the Deccan Gymkhana neighbourhood, are legends like Cafe Goodluck (famous for their Irani bun-maska-choi and biryani), and Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale (known for their sweets and bhakerwadi) which you shouldn’t miss out on. Film fiends should know that the National Film Archive of India is also located here, and they host monthly screenings of cinematic classics – the schedule of which you can find on their website.