Today is ‘Navroz’, the Parsi New Year! So how about heading out with your family for a meal, at some iconic Parsi eatery? Well, we’ve done the homework for you and culled a list of some Parsi cafes in Mumbai, that do not compromise on authenticity and obviously, taste! So, let’s begin.
SodaBottleOpenerWala
SodaBottleOpenerWala is a wonderfully chaotic and vibrant eatery in Bandra. It encapsulates all the eccentricities of a Parsi home from bric-a-brac objects to comfort food aroma in every corner. The menu has Parsi and Bombay-inspired Indian Food. When here, you’ll find some quirky names on the menu like Aloo Aunty’s Vegetable Cutlet, Breach Candy Awesome Okra, Mamaji’s Grilled Sandwich and Eggs Kejriwal and we suggest you try them all. Follow SBOW’s Instagram handle for more updates.
When: 12 noon to 1:30 am
Where: The Capital, 02, G Block Rd, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East
Ashmick’s Snack Shack
Amidst the glitz and glam of the city, the heart craves for cosy, non-flashy eateries serving food that would instantly lend a warm fuzzy feeling. If you agree with us, Bandra‘s Ashmick’s Snack Shack is a here for you with simple yet flavourful food. If you’re stopping by for a quick snack, do pick-out the classic Parsi delights. Also, this is a really tiny space so be prepared to wait if it’s packed. Follow Ashmick’s Instagram handle for more updates.
When: 10:30 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 2, Lourdes Haven, Pali Junction, Bandra West
Bawa Zest By Cheron
Nestled in Bandra West, Bawa Zest By Cheron is an underrated eatery on the list, that true-blue Parsi cuisine lovers swear by! This venture began as a small Parsi catering business and has now grown into a beloved bakery and takeaway store. So if you are planning to order in budget-friendly Parsi snacks this ‘Navroz’, trust Bawa Zest by Cheron to have your back! Follow Bawa’s Instagram handle for more updates.
When: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Where: St. Joseph’s Convent High School, 59, Hill Rd, Ranwar, Bandra West
Koolar & Co.
This Navroz, head over to Koolar & Co.- a fresh breath of yesteryears aura, which will make you gaze and wonder. Known for its Parsi breakfast and all day snacks, this cafe on the corner serves great Kheema Pav, Omelettes and the famous Bun Maska. The walls are panelled with wood and mirror and the floor is a checkerboard of old tiles, all typical to an Irani cafe.
When: 8:30 am to 11 pm
Where: 541, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Road, Matunga East
Yazdani Restaurant & Bakery
Quite easy to miss in the crowded, narrow by-lanes of Fort, Yazdani Restaurant and Bakery is your best bet for satiating Irani chai craving this Navroz. Once you‘ll enter the bakery, you‘ll be taken in by the scent of cakes hanging in the air. The day’s menu is written in colourful chalk on a blackboard hanging at the door. Regulars sit on the wooden benches, catching up on life, love and everything in between, as cups of milky Irani chai and fresh buns with a generous dollops of Amul butter, do rounds.
When: 7 am to 7 pm
Where: 11A, Cawasji Patel Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort
B. Merwan and Co.
B Merwan is probably one of the oldest Irani cafes left in Mumbai and we think it’s a great option to grab a quick bite at. You need to go in early though to try their buns as Merwan runs out of these in a flash. The tables and chairs are typical Irani-style and the menus hung at this place are super old, yet super visible from anywhere. The decor hasn’t been changed in years, yet is well maintained and clean. So go here for a fantastic meal that will make you want to come back for more.
When: 7 am to 6 pm
Where: Shop No. 1, Alibhai Premji Road, Pannalal Terrace, Grant Road East, Bharat Nagar, Grant Road
Kyani Bakery
Founded in 1904, Kyani & Co started as a bakery which made bread, biscuits, and cakes. In 2000, Farokh Shokri took over and added more items to menu which you have to try, along with a bottle of Palonji Raspberry Soda. Everything on their menu is extremely cheap and light on the pocket. Moreover, beautiful vintage photographs of British Mumbai, rustic chairs, vintage around tables, wooden counters, and huge glass panes, makes Kyani a visual delight. Follow Kyani’s Instagram handle for more updates.
When: 7 am to 7 pm
Where: Jer Mahal Estate, 657, Jagannath Shankar Seth Rd, opp. Metro Inox Theatre, Dhobi Talao, Marine Lines
