Are you looking to eat some of the best authentic Indian food during your stay in Mumbai? If so, read on to discover the best restaurants in Mumbai.
Mumbai is world-famous for its rich history and culture. Second only to Delhi, it received over 1.5 million tourists in 2017 alone.
As any traveler knows, veteran or beginner, food is not only an essential but one of the most exciting parts of a trip. With its multicultural population of 22 million, Mumbai is host to a staggering variety of food.
From the back alleys to the suburbs, this city offers options ranging from traditional Indian cuisine to Western takes on traditional fare. With choices for every taste, eating should be a priority on your trip here.
That said, it would be a mistake not to dive headfirst into the unique world of true Indian food. Here are 10 of the best authentic Indian restaurants in Mumbai for the traveler who wants total cultural immersion.
Masala Library
The Masala Library is a must-try restaurant for any food savvy traveler. Located in a suburban office complex, it would be very easy to miss out on this inspired cuisine if you weren’t looking for it.
Started in 2013 by Indian columnist and food consultant Jiggs Kalra, this restaurant sets itself apart with its scientific approach. Using molecular gastronomy, The Masala Library puts a uniquely modern spin on traditional dishes.
Even though it’s a bit out of the way, this is a worthwhile detour for any true foodie. And, if you’re already sold on the cuisine, learn more about how to make your food fantasies a reality.
Bombay Canteen
This hip establishment quickly rose to prominence after it was founded in 2015. Making a name for itself by virtue of its founder, Top Chef Masters winner Floyd Cardoz, it quickly emerged as one of the best restaurants in Mumbai.
Cardoz is an Indian-American chef originally from Mumbai. After living and working in New York, he traveled back to India to pursue his dream.
Designed in the fashion of a heritage bungalow, the Bombay Canteen puts a modern twist on Indian classics. With their Indian-infused cocktails, this is worth a trip for a daytime lunch or a night on the town.
Gaylord
Unlike the last two restaurants, Gaylord has been around for quite some time. Started in 1958, it’s one of Mumbai’s oldest and most successful restaurants, featuring the first open-air bakery in India.
With a recent menu redesign in 2016, Gaylord is keeping up with the times while remaining steeped in tradition. Offering a garden patio or an air-conditioned interior, it can accommodate diners of any persuasion.
From delicious butter chicken to traditionally prepared fish, Gaylord provides a taste of North Indian cuisine you won’t want to skip out on.
Khyber
As the name suggests to the geographically-minded, Khyber is the leading provider of traditional Northwest Frontier cuisine. Like Gaylord, Khyber was founded in 1958 but had to be rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1985.
Its interior incorporates old world flair with modern sensibilities. With a marble staircase and art by famous painters decorating the walls, it has long been a favorite destination of celebrities.
Located in Mumbai’s art district, Khyber offers a setting as rich as its food. Boasting traditional and vegetarian-friendly options, this is an experience not to be missed.
Trishna
A destination in south Mumbai for over 50 years, Trishna is an essential stop for any seafood lover. Renamed after its renovation in 1991, what it lacks in size and ambiance, it makes up for in quality.
With crab in butter pepper garlic sauce, you know you’re in for an oceanic treat. From lobster to prawns, Trishna is a unique and essential seafood establishment with history to boot.
Mahesh Lunch Home
Like Trishna, Mahesh Lunch Home is a longstanding stop-off for the seafood minded tourist. Founded in 1977, it provides all the history and legendary status with less cost.
Its specialty is Mangalorean food, similar to Trishna’s offerings, but different enough to warrant the trip. They also host an annual Crab & Wine festival that features over 25 crab dishes.
A bit more spacious than Trishna, this place is also cheaper, making it perfect for those on a budget.
Diva Maharashtracha
Diva Maharashtracha offers a huge selection of Maharashtrian fare. With over 200 dishes to choose from, any restaurant-goer will have no shortage of options.
Here you’ll be able to choose from dishes that span the entire region. At 200+ dishes, there are plenty of delicious meals for vegetarians. Conversely, adventurous meat lovers can try their hand at brains if they feel inclined to do so.
Britannia & Co Restaurant
Founded in 1923 by Mumbai’s Parsi community, this is one of their last standing restaurants. With an owner well into his 90s, you’ll get more than food from this historic eatery.
The restaurant itself was designed by the same architect who created the Gateway of India. Needless to say, the restaurant possesses a unique old-world grace.
The Parsi cuisine it offers combines Indian and Persian influences to create a one-of-a-kind synthesis. This is a must-see for those who want the full Mumbai experience.
Cafe Military
Like Britannia & Co, Cafe Military was founded many years ago by the Persian immigrant community. But unlike the aforementioned restaurant, it offers a simpler but no less essential dining experience.
Nestled among cafes and boutiques, Cafe Military is both a modern staple and a throwback to a simpler time. With a no-nonsense setting and menu, this is an ideal lunch spot for travelers on the go.
Kyani
Our list wouldn’t be complete without this delightfully simple Irani establishment. A cafe from times past, this was once a favorite of out-of-work sailors. Offering mutton puffs and delicious Irani chai, this is a lunch cafe worth your time.
Restaurants with this sort of understated historical flare are becoming harder to find as the city continues to grow. It’s easy to imagine life in Bombay before high-rises in a place like this.
Restaurants in Mumbai: Just the Beginning
In such a large and crowded city, these 10 restaurants in Mumbai are barely a fraction of what you’ll have to look forward to. Teeming with life, culture, and plenty of food, it’s easy to get lost in the sights and smells of this place.
If this piqued your interest enough to set out on an adventure for yourself, why not think about really taking the plunge? While you’re at it, learn some essential travel tips to make your life easier abroad!
