Take a Sip of the South Mumbai Culture

South Mumbai is a historic quarter exuding a charm that is hard to miss. From colonial architecture, modern high rises to quiet lanes, it is the beating heart of the city. And within this area you will find some quaint cafes each having a unique vibe and a story to tell.

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Whether you want to work from a cosy corner, catch up with a friend, read a book or just relish some me time, these six cafes in South Mumbai will surely make a permanent place in your heart.

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Kala Ghoda Café

Delicious healthy treats, frothy cup of coffee and a tranquil atmosphere, Kala Ghoda Café tucked inside the lanes of the famous district of Kala Ghoda in Fort is a place filled with lots of warmth. Vegan menu, gluten-free options, teas, sandwiches to the famous Flame Grilled Chicken, their menu is simple yet flavourful.

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The walls adorned with budding artist’s photographs and paintings, this café is a hit with the creative souls. With a wine bar at the backroom this tiny café is sure to please you in every way. Pro tip: Do try their special carrot cake to end on a sweet note!

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Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters

Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly brewed coffee? And Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters’ have mastered the art of serving impeccable coffee.

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A coffee chain all over India, in Mumbai too, it has grabbed a few outlets. From Mochas, Cortados, Cappuccinos to exotic selections like Chili Cinnamon Mocha, CoffeeTonic (a mix of tonic + espresso) and Nitro Coffee (a nitrogen infused cold brew black coffee) their menu is a total surprise. They offer some great savoury options like No Leaf Salad, open sandwiches and waffles. So grab a book, curl up in a corner and enjoy a hot brew in a snuggly ambience!

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The Nutcracker

Happily sitting inside the heritage district of Mumbai, this pocket-sized vibrant café has plenty of character and an eclectic menu.

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An all-day breakfast place and serving some home-style fresh global cuisine, The Nutcracker is known for its 3 Cheese Rolled Omelette, The House Salad, The Passion Fruit Smoothie and the classic 7 Layer Cookie.

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While it doesn’t serve any meat, the vegetarian and egg fare is to simply die for. No matter what time you walk in, be sure your comfort food will be served to you with a smile and lots of flavour.

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Leopold Café

Your visit to Mumbai is incomplete without having visited this 150-year-old café.

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A landmark in the Colaba district with a tragic history and a mention in Gregory David Roberts’ book Shantaram, every corner of Leopold speaks to you.

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Clinking of beer mugs, old art walls, cocktails, juices to variety of snacks like burgers, fries or pastas their menu is long and varied. High ceilings, comfortable wooden chairs, view of the busy street and some peppy music, Leopold gives every traveller a snapshot into the energetic vibe of Mumbai.

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Café Mondegar

Situated right at the start of Colaba Causeway, with a vintage jukebox and walls adorned with Mario Miranda sketches, Café Mondegar is where you see every generation enjoying some fun moments.

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Established in the year 1932, it serves a sumptuous breakfast menu and some continental choices too. Beer and wine are the only alcoholic beverages here. Menus tucked under glass tables, a chilled out vibe and the ever smiling staff, Café Mondegar has sustained the passage of time to still be a favourite amongst its people.‍

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Britannia & Co.

It’s been 98 years since this cafe was started by Rashid Kohinoor, a Zoroastrian settled in Mumbai after they fled Iran. They started by serving continental food for the British and now the focus lies on Parsi cuisine.

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For all these years they have managed to capture the heart of the city with their Berry Pulao (rice with raisins), Sali Boti (mutton gravy topped with fried potato sticks) and Dhansak (mixture of lentils with mutton). The late Boman Kohinoor who took over the business from his father with the help of his children, was the iconic face of the café who expressed sheer joy in serving delightful treats to his guests.