Mumbai for the solo traveller
Whether it's relishing street food in the city's most loved beaches or grooving to live music at its hottest clubs, places to visit alone in Mumbai are endless, especially for those travelling alone to the city of dreams. India's busiest and most populous city is a melting pot of the old and new, with streets built of centuries-old buildings and sprawling modern complexes touching the skies. From plush nightclubs and luxurious spas to flea markets and sprawling museums, Mumbai is a perfect companion for solo travellers. Here is your guide to all the places that can keep a solo traveller entertained in the maximum city.
A solo trip is everyone’s fantasy, from the jilted lover, to the stressed out IT executive, and this is why it is important to understand which places can be visited solo. Among the places to visit alone, Mumbai definitely stands high up there. Solo trip in Mumbai is great fun, as the city has an urban character, with a natural knack for glamour.
GETTING AROUND IN MUMBAI
Mumbai's most iconic street eats and where to have them
10 Mumbai hotspots where you can shop till you drop
Your guide to Mumbai’s heritage sites
Mumbai’s most loved beaches
10 places to read a book in Mumbai
The heart of art in Mumbai
5 nightspots to party hard in Mumbai
Known as the Commercial Capital of India, Mumbai is a city of glamour and glitz. It is only safe to assume that Mumbai nightlife would be eclectic and exciting. Mumbai nightlife places are of many types, from your regular local bar to the exclusive clubs visited by the who’s who of tinsel-town. When in Mumbai, you are in safe hands as far as entertainment is concerned, and hence there are numerous night hangout places in Mumbai. From one end of the city to the other there are loads of places for you to have a great night with friends and close ones.
6 places to get live and loud in Mumbai
Mumbai's most relaxing spas
Breakfast in Mumbai
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In search of Bombay in Mumbai
The change in the way that this city’s name was spelled could not change the love we have for it. Yes, calling Bombay as Mumbai really did not change much. Still Bombay to all the old souls out there, it stays as the city maximum, as the city that never sleeps and the city that is welcoming and brutal at the same time.
It had its brush with the Portuguese and the British as well, and reminders of those eras now stand tall and mute as the landscape keeps changing. If you are in Mumbai and are eager for a Bombay experience, go off the famous lanes.
Explore Mumbai like a lover of Bombday would, here is some help.
Chor Bazaar
Credit: ThinkStock PhotosIf there is one place in South Mumbai that will blow your mind away, I would name it Chor Bazaar. Famous as the underbelly of the city, this is more of a flea market than a thieves’ market as its name suggests. It is a place to haggle to the best of your ability and dig souvenirs that include stuff as random and mismatched as typewriters, vinyl records, antique clocks, radios, and automobile parts that might be coming from a down and out Bentley!
You will find this market stretched on Mutton Street, and the shops are open from 11 AM to 7:30 PM.
Kala Ghoda
Photo by: Nichalp, Creative Commons Attribution LicenceFebruary is, unquestionably, the best time to make this cultural nosedive. Yet, if you are in Mumbai and do not visit Kala Ghoda, it is almost a sin of sorts. An art district, Kala Ghoda is where you will find city’s most coveted heritage buildings, art galleries, museums and more. Some of the must-visits here are the Esplanade Mansion, Jehangir Art Gallery, National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Great Western Building. Do remember to carry your camera along, for Kala Ghoda is a photographer's’ delight.
Marine Drive
Photo by: SevenSoft, Creative Commons Attribution LicenceThere simply is no getting over this one. If Marine Drive is not on your list of essential Mumbai experience, it really does not make a list. A very laid-back vibe even as the crowd keeps surging till well past midnight, Marine Drive is where you will find the local kids strumming guitar and calling it a day. Bandra Bandstand might just be a great match with it.
Mumbai local trainsCredit: ThinkStock PhotosTake out a few hours of your time in Mumbai and hop over for a ride on one of the Mumbai locals. It might not be plush or even close to luxurious but this is where the city’s heart is. Always on time, except when the rail tracks go under water during annual monsoon bursts, most of the Mumbai locals run every day from 5 AM to 2 AM. Some of the coaches are reserved for women, making it a more comfortable experience if you wish to have one.
Elephanta Caves
Credit: ThinkStock PhotosImagine going on a ferry ride to one of India’s most prized UNESCO heritage sites; if you fancy the idea, get a ticket for the ferry ride to the Elephanta Caves. The island that houses the caves is about 2 km off the shore, and has some of the world’s best rock-cut sculptures. Most of the carvings here depict stories from Hindu mythology and a visit is more than just a break from Mumbai’s traffic if you are craving for one.
A day can also be very well-spent exploring the Parsi culture of the city, including some hours at the Parsi Dadar Colony and some famous Irani cafes. An evening at Leopold Cafe is another must if you wish to experience Mumbai in its Bombay days.
Do not forget to drop in your suggestions in the comment section below if you know of more Bombay delights. We are reading.
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Attend This: Embark On A Picturesque Vasota Jungle Trek In Satara Region
To the point: Imagine this — you are walking (more like trekking) amidst a dense jungle, are surrounded by nothing but nature, are headed to a site which will offer a panoramic view of Satara. Wouldn't you like to just soak in the natural beauty and just stay there? Well, we don't know about staying back but we surely know about how you can experience this.
Arranged by Karma Events & Holidays, attend a two-day long Vasota Jungle trek this month. It is comparatively an easy, medium endurance level trek that will start from the Warje Flyover on the Katraj-Dehu Road bypass.
It includes camping and trekking (of 5 km, each side) with the organisers taking care of your camping stay and food. All you have to carry is one extra pair of clothes, water, warm clothes, blankets, and medicines if required.
The trip begins on January 19, 2 pm and ends on January 20 at 11 pm. Not only will it involve camping and trekking, but there's also boating and exploration of the Vasota fort, also known as Vyaghragad. How cool will that be? Go ahead and unwind on a camping trip like no other!
Where: Vasota, Satara, Maharashtra
When: Jan 19-20
Cost: Rs 1800 per head.
Contact: +91 9970787493; +91 9657473595; +91 9764442120
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Experience A Slice Of Mediterranean Architecture In Ganpatipule!
To the point: Cool tones of blue, white and teal, earthy oranges and airy spaces, no we aren’t talking about taking a trip to Greece, Italy or Morocco to experience Mediterranean architecture at its best. All you gotta do is hop into a car, bump across the winding Sahyadris and pitstop at The One, an abode so beautiful located in the heart of GanpatiPule and we promise you, your eyes are in for a treat.
Hosted by Niyoti, a production designer by profession, she’s a woman with a passion for decorating spaces and making them come to life. With a love for nature, outdoors, books and experiences true to locals, her home exudes her personality to the T.
Two bedrooms, one as blue as the bright daylit sky and the other as green as a rainforest the home is perfect to accommodate four guests looking for a serene getaway. Eclectic in style, and furniture as white as snow, The One, surely calms the eye. With a beautiful big sea green butterfly chair to sink in and enjoy the company of loved ones as well as a bookshelf in the house, relaxation at this property is inevitable. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy eating out too much and want to just buy all the yummy fresh catch of seafood and whip up a home cooked meal, there’s a fully equipped kitchen in store for you.
Workaholics or social media lovers, fear not you can take your work along with you and update your gram’ every second cos the home has WiFi too! Mosaic tiles, glass lanterns, a ton of plants and your loved ones, need we say more? This getaway is sure to be perfect. An amalgamation of unique items, each one so different from the other and quirky knick-knacks handpicked by the host, the house is nothing short of paradise. Quit booking a trip abroad to experience the Mediterranean culture, just book your stay at the one and you’re sure to become one with the Mediterranean.
Not just that, if you’re an outdoorsy kinda person looking to explore the pristine village of Malgund, no stress there’s a lot to do! Set out and pay a visit to the Jaigad fort not too far away from the property or pay your respects at the Ganesh Temples in Ganpatipule and Kachare. Not just that, experience fresh produce at its best at the local market that’s a stone’s throw away. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. Happy travels!
Price: Rs 6,500
Contact: 9820134242
To book, click here
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Instead Of A DJ, Opt For These Live Music Bands For Your Next Event
To the point: Tired of begging your musically gifted friends to come perform at your parties or events? We’ve curated a list of Mumbai based bands and artists who will liven up your special occasions. You're welcome.
1. Shanay Shah
A singer, songwriter and guitarist, Shanay Shah is sure to make you remember your first crush with his soulful singing. A mix of Hindi and English, you can check out his work on YouTube.
2. Tanuj Vats
A vocalist, lyricist, composer, and a producer, Tanuj is a multi-instrumentalist who plays the guitar, and piano. Once you listen to his covers, there’s no going back, we bet. You can follow him on YouTube.
3. Vernon Noronha
Singing since he was 8, singer and songwriter Vernon’s songs will move you because of the aw emotion in them. Follow him here.
4. Simetri
The singer-songwriter duo - Riya and Simran Duggal will stun you with Western Rock, Indie, Pop Music, and also Indian classical music. You can check out their work here.
5. Shivangi Bhayana
We’re glad this desi girl moved from Canada to India to pursue a full-time career in music. Beside Hindi numbers, her Sufi music will transport you to the world of poetry. You have to follow her on YouTube.
6. Anket Dhoundiyal
Ankit Dhoundiyal is sure to turn your gathering into a party! Sing-along music teamed up with a lively high-energy band will turn you all on the dance floor. Follow his work on YouTube.
Cover Image Source: UTV Spotboy
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Have You Tried The Best Baos In Mumbai Yet?
To the point: A warm, fluffy cloud packed with a filling of your choice and steamed to perfection. What's not to like? We have listed down 6 restaurants in Mumbai serving the best baos we’ve tried.
1: The Fatty Bao
From a crispy tofu and a mock meat version, to a roast duck one, to a fried eggplant one, to a chilli crab and prawn version, The Fatty Bao serves over 10 varieties of this Asian delicacy. And mind you, all great interpretations of the classic!
Where: The Fatty Bao, Bandra, Andheri, Lower Parel and Powai
Cost: Rs 250++ onwards
2: Plum by Bent Chair
India’s first experiential dining retail restaurant, Plum by Bent Chair offers some mean baos - wild mushroom (for the vegetarians), and spicy barbecued chicken and tenderloin and black pepper baos (for the meat-eaters).
Where: Plum by Bent Chair, Third Floor, Trade View Building, Kamala Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel
Cost: Rs 485++ onwards
3: Keiba
Beside being one of the most romantic spots in Mumbai, Keiba is also known for their delicious Asian food. They serve unbelievably fluffy buns - baos but closed - with 3 different fillings - mushroom, chicken and pork.
Where: Keiba, Royal Western India Turf Club, Mahalakshmi
Cost: Rs 395++ onwards
4: Umame
When Chef Farrokh Khambatta is behind the kitchen, you know he’s about to create magic. Apart from serving world-class sushi and khao suey, they also master in making baos. Pick the honey garlic chicken bao or the one with mixed vegetables and water chestnuts, and trust us, you won’t regret it!
Where: Umame, 1st Floor, East Wing, Cambata Building, Near Eros Theatre, Churchgate
Cost: Rs 385++ onwards
5: China Bistro
A restaurant townies swear by for authentic Chinese food, it would be a sin to not mention China Bistro for their baos. Serving baos and bao pockets, they serve 3 vegetarian and 3 meat options catering to everyone’s palette.
Where: China Bistro, Worli, Shivaji Park, Thane and Chembur
Cost: Rs 405++ onwards
6: Foo - Asian Tapas
This new Asian restaurant has been the talk of the town and for all the right reasons. Gorgeous interiors, delicious tapas and pocket-friendly prices. Though they only have 2 baos on their menu, both are must tries.
Where: Foo, Phoenix Mill Compound, High Street Phoenix, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel
Cost: Rs 290++ onwards
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Eat This Filling Surmai Thali Just For Rs. 140
To the point: We have all had those days when we are just fed up of the usual dal-roti and crave something yummy for lunch. We have found the perfect lunch home where all you office-goers can gorge on yummy food.
While one loves the thrill of the Maximum city, one can hardly afford to eat lunch at one of the many fancy cafes or restaurants on a daily basis. But if you are a foodie like us and love trying out different types of food then head to Shubha Bhojnalaya for a lunch fix. Located in Lower Parel, this is the perfect place to catch a quick yet affordable meal. They offer a variety of thalis in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options but what caught our eye was the Surmai Thali.
The thali, costing just Rs. 140, comprises curry, sabji, rice, two pieces of fish fry and even two rotis. Now, what else could a hungry tummy ask for? If fish is not your meal of choice, then try their chicken and mutton options instead.One word of warning, the tiny restaurant is usually packed during lunch hour so be prepared to wait for a bit before being seated. However, their service is super fast so you won’t be kept hungry for too long.
Where: Shubha Bhojnalaya, Tulsi Building, 446/A2, Ground, Tulsi Pipe Rd, Lower Parel
Cost: Rs 50 onwards
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6 Hot Beverages That’ll Make Your Winter More Wonderful And Where To Have Them In The City
To the point: Mumbai ki sardi is famous for its blink and miss role in our lives. But this year we’ve been lucky to have a winter where sweatshirts are needed and hot beverages really give out the much-needed warmth. And since we are such aficionados of hot beverages, we decided to compile a list of some mouth-watering beverages that can be the perfect companions this season. So we say, sip on!
1. Home-made Dark Hot Chocolate
If you love all things home-made then you’ll love Suzette’s rich, dark and unadulterated Hot Chocolate. A big cuppa to satisfy your heart, this chocolaty indulgence is a must in the winter, chill or no chill. Team it with a crepe or simply gorge on a salad for that good food feeling to sink in.
Where: Suzette Creperie & Café
Price: Rs. 220++
2. Pink Latte
Your regular latte gets a makeover with an pink hue that’s soothing to the soul. The Pink Latte comes with a frothy layer on top and biscuits on the side that can give you company while you enjoy the weather and the views. We suggest you take the window seat but if you can’t the café is also eye-pleasing enough to enjoy a pleasant evening. Plus, a round of Pooja Dhingra’s famous macaroons to end the evening would be like icing on the cake.
Where: Le15 Café
Price: Rs. 180 ++
3. Matcha Vanilla
Matcha’s become quite a fad these days with people using in various ways. Well, here’s a matcha-infused beverage you won’t regret ordering. With rich matcha and vanilla paired with creamy steamed milk, this makes for a palate-pleasing beverage.
Where: Tassa De The
Price: Rs. 197++
4. Strawberries and Cream Tea
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A mesmerising combination of black tea, white chocolate, strawberries, and Roman chamomile served along with some flavouring this beverage is a truly unique concoction. Sip on it along with the tea cake of the day for a more wholesome experience. If this is too experimental for you, try their Madagascar Hot Chocolate with 70 percent cocoa and you’ll be floored. Another hit on their menu is the Signature Belgian Chocolate Freakshake.
Where: The Rolling Pin
Price: Rs. 230 ++
5. White Chocolate
This whimsical and warm concoction is made with pure white chocolate. Melted chocolate is served with creamy milk that gives it the silky, caramelly texture you are bound to love. Order one of their signature desserts or churros along with this and you’ll be on a chocolate overload that’s all worth it.
Where: Chocolateria San Churro
Price: Rs. 215++
6. Charcoal Latte
Your regular latte gets a makeover with the addition of activated charcoal that not only lends it a rich, black hue but also the benefits. While you are sipping this enjoyable beverage order a Wild Mushroom Crepe or a Banana Split Waffle and make it an indulgent evening.
Where: Poetry by Love and Cheesecake
Price: Rs. 170++
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Enjoy Pocket Friendly Mughlai At These Joints In Mumbai
To the point: Packed with street food stalls and fine dining restaurants, it’s difficult to find small-scale restaurants that serve delicious food at
Rajasthan
Don’t let the name confuse you. This outlet in Khar has been serving hungry mughlai food lovers for years now. From their biryani to the lighter-than-cotton caramel custard, everything is lip-smacking good. It’s a fast moving restaurant so don’t expect a fine dining experience.
Where: Rajasthan, S.V road, Khar west
When: 8 am to 1 am, all days
Cost for two: Rs 500
Kareem’s
An oldie but a goodie on this list! Kareem’s has been ruling the
Where: Kareem’s, Shop 53, 53A, 54, Ground Floor, Jai Hind Market, Dr. C. G. Road, Behind Gandhi Market Bus Stop, Chembur
When: 11.30 am to 4 pm, 6.30 pm to 11.30 pm, all days
Cost for two: Rs 700
Oye Pappe
This deliver-only
Where: Oye Pappe, Kalina Road, Santacruz East
When: 11 am to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm, all days
Cost for two: Rs 450
Noor Mohammadi Hotel
The restaurant that made the ‘Sanju Baba Chicken’ famous- a recipe that Sanjay Dutt enjoys at this place. Noor Mohammadi is also known for its Nalli Nihari, a dish that only a few get right in this city. Don’t forget to pick up their readymade meat masala which they retail at the restaurant itself!
Where: Noor Mohammadi Hotel, 179, Wazir Building, Abdul Hakim Chowk, Bhendi Bazar, Near, Mohammad Ali Road
When: 6 am to 1.30 am, all days
Cost for two: Rs 350
Gulshan-e-Iran
An authentic
Where: Gulshan-e-Iran, 15, Corner Of MRA Marg, Musafir Khana Road, Crawford Market, Mumbai CST Area
When: 7 am to 1.30 am, all days
Cost for two: Rs 500
Goila Butter Chicken
While the chef-cum-owner of this restaurant has represented India on Masterchef Australia, their prices are still pocket-friendly. Known for its butter chicken, Goila’s butter chicken has a smokey flavour to the gravy, something that even hard core Delhi fiod-lovers rave about. So don’t forget to try that!
Where: Goila Butter Chicken, Shop 26, 4 Bungalows, Sai Kanwal Complex, Indira Nagar, Near DN Nagar Metro Station, 4 Bungalows
When: 12 noon to 1 am, all days
Cost for two: Rs 700
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12 Places That Serve The Best Biryani In Mumbai
To the point: Let’s be honest - do you ever need an actual reason to savour some delicious biryani? After all, biryani is possibly that one thing that unifies all of us - regardless of who we are, which region we belong to, or what our likes/dislikes may be. In fact, a biryani is possibly that one dish that even the most ardent haters of food (yes, people like that do exist!) cannot resist. And so on that note, for all Mumbaikars out there who were looking for the best biryani in Mumbai, we at Whatshot have compiled a list of the best places that serve biryani in Mumbai.
1. Persian Darbar
2. Kakori House
3: Jaffer Bhai's Delhi Darbar
4: Lucky Restaurant
5: Behrouz biryani
6: Borivali Biryani Centre
7: Dum Pukht
8: Cafe Noorani
9: Shalimar Restaurant
10: Dum Matka
11: The Calcutta Club
12: Zaffran
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5 Cheesy Mumbaiya Street Foods To Try RN!
To the point: A
1. Cheese Dahi Puri aka Pizza Punch at Shreeji Stall
Whoever said Pani Puri can’t be cheesy, was wrong! This stall makes a kickass version of the good ol’ Pani Puri, with loads of cheese. PS. It is also loaded with extra mayo on request.
Where: Shreeji Stall, Chamunda Circle, Asha Nagar, Borivali West
Cost: Rs. 100
2. Cheese Burst Dosa at Pure Milk Centre
This one beats a cheese burst pizza in it's own game!! Smothered with cheese, it is heavenly in every bite. You can try a Cheese Burst special in Masala Dosa, Mysore Masala Dosa and Sada Dosa.
Where: Pure Milk Centre, 19/20, Vikrant, RB Mehta Marg, Tilak Road, Ghatkopar East
Cost: Rs. 250
3. Cheese Hulk Sandwich at Om Snacks
As the name suggests, this one is a massive 1Kg cheesy sandwich, which you can’t get enough of! It is overloaded with veggies, cheese and more cheese. We dare you to finish it :P
Where: Om Snacks, Anurag, Shriniwas Bagarka Rd, Opp Bagadka College, S B Singh Colony, J B Nagar, Andheri East
Cost: Rs. 285
4. Cheese Potato Twister at Trendy Taste
A crispy, fried twist to the Potato Fries, it is topped with loads of cheese sauce, and piri piri as an option.
Where: Trendy Taste, Plot 123, Irla Society Road, Vile Parle West
Cost: Rs. 70
5. Cheese Pasta Roll at Raju Sandwich Stall
Raju is known to make every college-goer happy with his piping hot, loaded Sandwiches, Rolls, Pizzas and Paninis! There are times, when people just drive to his stall to grab a Cheesy Pasta Roll. He also makes Samosa, Paneer and Jain rolls.
Where: Raju Sandwich Stall, Opposite HR College, Churchgate
Cost: Rs. 60
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Looking For The Best Brewery In Mumbai? Here Are 10 Places That Every Beer Lover Will Absolutely Love!
To the point: In the last couple of years, breweries and pubs have mushroomed all over Mumbai, serving amazing beers and ciders in settings that are at once casual and fun. If you love beer and are looking for a new watering hole, we’ve put together a list of all the best taprooms in Mumbai. Cheers to that!
Here Are The Best Breweries In Mumbai
1: Brewbot Eatery & Pub Brewery
Located in Andheri West, this brewery loves robots, hence its name. They offer a good selection of wheat beers and IPAs but in case you happen to favour darker beers, the Black Mamba, a British-style oatmeal stout, is an absolute delight. They also have a special Hoppy Hour offer where they supersize your beer and get you a 550ml one, while you actually pay for a 330ml one (applicable from Monday to Saturday during 4 AM to 8 AM). They also offer incredible combo deals where you can pair up your beer with either a pizza, tacos or one of their select starters for a better price. Speaking of their food menu, you can get a lot of scrumptious and delectable dishes here, including an amazing variety of tacos (their Smoked Chicken, Crispy Avocado, and Smoked Port variants being our absolute favourites), pizzas (we recommend their BBQ Chicken and Farmhouse variants), and their chicken wings and juicy chicken sliders.
Where: Brewbot Eatery & Pub Brewery, G-01 & 101, Morya Landmark 1, Off New Link Road, Andheri West
Cost for two: Rs. 1,500
Timings: 4:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 9326072768
2: British Brewing Company
As the name suggests, this watering hole is all about its beers and British pub-like ambience. They offer a good selection of craft beers on tap including brews by Gateway Brewing Co.and White Owl, as well as an exhaustive list of international brews like Asahi, Witlinger, and Hoegaarden. From their own freshly crafted beers, we recommend you to check out their Diablo, Apple Cider, and Spark variants. They also serve some interesting cocktails for you to choose from, including their BBC Sangria, Watermelon Caipiroska, and Fresh Fruit Margarita.You should also check out their food menu and order their delectable Tom Yum Soup, Grilled Chicken Salad, Crispy Bombay Duck, Potato Cheese Shots, and Backyard Chicken Burger. So the next time you feel spoilt for choice given the wide range of breweries in Mumbai that you could visit, British Brewing Company makes an incredibly worthy case for itself. You’d also be pleased to know that BBC in spread across various locations in Mumbai, including Lower Parel, Goregaon, Saki Naka, Vashi, and Thane.
Where: British Brewing Company, Various outlets
Cost for two: Rs. 1,600
Timings: 12:00 PM - 12:30 AM
3: Woodside Inn
This brew pub has played a significant role in converting Mumbaikars into craft beer enthusiasts. They offer brews from Gateway Brewing Co., Independence Brewing Company, Brewbot, Ninkasi and pretty much every other brewery in Mumbai and Pune. As such, those looking for the best brewery in Mumbai will surely be pleased by the sheer variety of draughts that are at offer here. You can sample most of them at their Lower Parel taproom whose bar is equipped with over 30 taps, as well as their Colaba and Andheri outlets. Unlike most breweries, this one opens shop pretty early in the day, and so if you were ever craving some delicious pancakes or waffles for breakfast (we recommend their Nutella and Granola Pancakes, as well as their Hazelnut and Chocolate Chips Waffles), but wanted to sip them down with a chilled glass of beer on a lazy Sunday afternoon, this is precisely where you ought to be headed to. From their delectable food menu, we urge you to order their Spanish Omelette, Baked Stuffed Mushrooms, Bacon Wrapped Grilled Prawns, Grilled Chicken Breast,and Home Baked Chicken Wings. And for the health buffs out there, you can even customise and order your own salad, so as to feel a little less guilty about the extra calories you’ll be taking in thanks to that pitcher of beer you order.
Where: Woodside Inn, New Link Plaza, Next to Oshiwara Police Station, Andheri West
Cost for two: Rs. 1,800
Timings: 11:30 AM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 022-26328963
4: Independence Brewing Company
This Pune import takes its beers very seriously and it shows. They offer a large selection of craft beers starting from delicate and easy German and Belgian Ales to hoppy IPA and even a nitro beer called Ixcacao! If you are a beer fanatic, this place should pretty much be your HQ! In fact, their Belgian Wit (concocted using pilsner, oats, coriander and orange peel), Blackberry Pie (a sour ale aged with fresh blackberries), Porter (made using crystal and chocolate malt), and American Pale Ale (rich with notes of grapefruit and mango) need to be on the bucket list of every beer lover in Mumbai. Their delicious food is an added bonus, what with their Mushroom Chilli Fry, Peri Peri Chicken Skewers, Tenderloin Chilli Fry, Chicken Samosas, and Apple & Walnut Salad making for great choices.
Where: Independence Brewing Company, B 41, Unit 001 & 101, Boolani Estate Owners Premises Co-Op Society, New Link Road, Andheri West
Cost for two: Rs. 1,800
Timings: 1:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 9820203836
5: Doolally Taproom
Pune’s Doolally was the first to bring the concept of a taproom to the city. They are known for their Belgian Witbier, heady oatmeal stout, and ciders. As such, if you were actively searching for the best fresh brewed beer in Mumbai, you need to order their Mango Cider, Dunkel Lager, Smoked Porter, and Rauch Bier. And while we love their brews, we also love the hearty food served here, especially their breakfast menu. Their Chilli Garlic Dumplings, Kolkata Style Roll, Kosha Murgi, and Buff Steak are highly recommend as well. Additionally, if you happen to love your pet as much (if not more!), then you love your ale, you’d be pleased to know that Doolally Taproom is a pet-friendly brewery, so your beloved pooch also has a great time. Oh, they also have free WiFi and weekly pub quiz nights too! They're in locations across Mumbai including Andheri West, Khar, and Kemps Corner.
Where: Doolally Taproom, 135 Kwality House, First Floor, August Kranti Marg, Kemps Corner
Cost for two: Rs. 1,500
Timings: 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 022-39625626
6: Royal Oak Brewery
Tucked in a shopping complex in Vashi, this brewery is known for its Munich lagers and rice and rye ales. In particular, we absolutely love their Vanilla Cream Ale, Belgian Wit Bier and Belgian Red Ale.
They also offer peach and strawberry flavoured beers, which are surprisingly delicious. Additionally, if you’re up for it, you can also order a whopping five litre beer barrel and be sorted for the rest of the night! In fact, if you’re going out with a large group of friends, we highly recommend their beer barrel (which is also available for their flavorful beers). In other words, your search for the best brewery in Mumbai cannot be complete without a visit to the Royal Oak Brewery. Their food menu too holds its own, what with their Peri Peri Potato Burger, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Fish Kurkure (yes, you read that right!), Mutton Chop, Penne Pastain Pink Champagne Sauce, and Murgh Supremo being an absolute delight for your taste buds.
Where: Royal Oak Brewery, Satra Plaza, Sector 19, Palm Beach Road, Vashi
Cost for two: Rs.1,500
Timings: 12:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 022-33126167
7: Kaitlyn's Beer Garden
Now here’s something special and interesting, a place that is certain to make for a unique experience when you visit it. This beer garden-themed pub is known for its beer shakes that are made using fruits, liqueurs, milk, and ice cream! Simply put, their beer shakes are an absolute delight for beer lovers in the city, and should be on the bucket list of every ale-lover who wants to try something different and unique. In addition to their special beer shakes, they also offer a selection of craft beers sourced from Brewbot along with international brews. We also absolutely love their unique collection of cocktails, all of which utilize a beer in their creation. Of these special cocktails, their Aquamarine (an exotic concoction of vodka, apple juice, blue curacao, and Bira Blonde), My Embrace (made using tequila, lemon juice, pineapple juice, passion fruit and Bira Blonde) and Black Pearl (a dangerous combination of Jack Daniels, Diablo beer, and chocolate sauce). The food menu is a mishmash of greasy plates that are ideal companions for a pint of chilled beer, especially their Pulled Lamb Crostini, Crispy Chicken with Sweet Chilli and Sesame, Pahadi Paneer Tikka, Malai Broccoli, Chicken Lasagna, and Kaitlyn’s Special Chicken Fajita.
Where: Kaitlyn’s Beer Garden, 201-202, Khan House, Hill Road, Bandra West
Cost for two: Rs. 1,600
Timings: 12:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Contact: 022-33951697
8: Toit Brewery - Taproom & Kitchen
Hearts were broken when Blue Frog shut shop in Mumbai, but the fact that it was replaced by Bangalore's Toit ends up being great consolation. We love the craft beers on tap here and the food is equally amazing. With more than one bar in this large space, a unique layout, and buzzing, fun vibe, it's one of the most bustling hangouts in South Mumbai! In fact, the sheer variety of beer that is at offer here is, for lack of a better term, simply to die for. In particular, we urge you to order their Chevallier Bitter, Flower Power, Basmati Blonde, Dark Knight, Toit Weiss, Kilnaleck Red, and Tintin Toit. The first two of that lot are their signature ales, and warrant a place on your table. They also have a great food menu for you to choose delectable dishes from. Our favourites here include classic onion rings, Chilli Cheese Bhaji, BBQ Chicken Wings, Smoked Salmon, Pandi Spare Ribs, and Kerala Beef Fry. Their wood-fired pizzas, delicious pastas and healthy salads also warrant your attention. Keeping all of this in mind, it won’t be wrong to anoint it with the title of being the best brewery in Mumbai.
Where: Toit Brewery - Taproom & Kitchen, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel
Cost for two: Rs. 1,600
Timings: 12:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 9324555223
9: Gateway Taproom
Fret not ale lovers, for your search for the best beer in Mumbai has officially come to an end. What with the Gateway Taproom being, without question, one of the best breweries in Mumbai that should pretty much be on the bucket list of all Mumbaikars. Serving up Gateway Brewing Co's popular craft beers, Gateway Taproom at BKC even serves beer cocktails and yummy food to go along with your drinks. From their rich collection of beer cocktails, Grape in My Side Car (apple cider and red wine), Jim’s Stout (stout and bourbon), Ginger Lemon Radler(wheat beer, ginger and lemonade), and Gin Zen (wheat beer and gin) are our favourites. And from their equally delectable food menu, we recommend their grilled fish skewers, tuna crostini, stuffed mushrooms, melon feta carpaccio, bacon wrapped sausages, chicken schnitzel, spinach & feta crepes, and tenderloin burrito. Lastly, but certainly not the least, their Oktoberfest (the name speaks for itself!), Bomberg, and Valencia Orange Wheat beers are our absolute favourites.
Where: Gateway Taproom, Godrej BKC, Unit 3, Plot C - 68, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex
Cost for two: Rs. 2,200
Timings: 12:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Contact: 8104590734
10: Thirsty City 127
Having overtaken the place where Barking Deer (Mumbai’s first brew pub) used to be, Thirsty City 127 is where you ought to be headed to if you are looking for the best beer in Mumbai. It was founded by Vir Kotak, who, after having already brought China’s iconic lager Tsingtao and the Bavarian wheat beer Schneider Weisse to India, wanted to brew his own beers and serve them to Mumbai’s avante-garde crowd. From their beers, we recommend you to try out their Thirsty Ninja, Happy By Thirsty, Thirsty Miss Sweet Lips, and Thirsty Simona variants. In addition to the beers being brewed here, their cocktails menu is also certain to stroke your curiosity as well. After all, most of the cocktails here take inspiration from the ingredients used to make beer (grains, water, yeast, etc.), and make for quite an exotic option. We especially love their Forgive & Fernet (made using vanilla, cream, soda and citrus), Not A Colada (a lighter and bubblier version of the pina colada), Beet Tapache (an exotic concoction of flowers, honey, fermented beetroot and tequila) and Wabi Sabi (a spicy take on a classic whiskey sour).
Where: Thirsty City 127, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel, Mumbai
Cost for two: Rs. 3,100
Timings: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Contact: 022-49764002
