I had written a year or so ago about some of my favourite South Mumbai restaurants: Swati, Status, Cream Centre, Spice Klub, and All-in-1 Pure Jain I had also mentioned several other restaurants that Bhavana, Abhishek and I frequently visited: Dakshinayan at Walkeshwar for its South Indian food, Quattro (next to Spice Klub) for its veg Italian and Mexican options, Soam and Govinda at Babulnath, Samrat at Churchgate, New Yorker (next to Cream Centre), and Gustoso with its excellent pizzas within walking distance from home.
The wonderful thing about Mumbai’s restaurant scene is its constant evolution, with new establishments regularly enriching our dining choices. With Abhishek in the US, it’s primarily Bhavana and me who dine out 2-3 times a month. Our preference is for vegetarian restaurants with Jain options. Here are some noteworthy new discoveries:
- Navam Dining at Sikka Nagar: This has become our new favourite, with its extensive Jain menu options
- Achija at Lower Parel: Conveniently close to office, offering impressive variety
- Vanakkam Vihar at Opera House: Excellent South Indian specialties
- Millo at Kamala Mills: Perfect for leisurely lunches or dinners, offering unique dishes not found elsewhere
- Bhagat Tarachand at Lower Parel: The beloved Kalbadevi institution, now conveniently located next to my office
When it comes to food, I am not much of an experimenter – primarily because I don’t like many things. In south Indian, I like a well-made Pongal. In north Indian, mutter paneer, Malai kofta, or chole are my favourites. Outside of Indian, I like Italian (pizza, pasta), or Mexican (enchilada, quesadilla). In a restaurant, I tend to re-order what I ate and liked the previous time!
The one thing I’ve realized is how wonderfully diverse Indian cuisine can be. Millo’s menu is a good example of the possibilities. During my last visit, I tried their Chilaquiles Filo Cups – a perfect example of creative fusion done right.
It’s fascinating to see how vegetarian dining in Mumbai has evolved over the years. From traditional thali places to modern fusion restaurants, the options have expanded dramatically. Today’s vegetarian restaurants are no longer just about basic paneer dishes or standard South Indian fare. They’re experimenting with global cuisines, innovative presentations, and creative interpretations of traditional dishes. Even the ambiance has transformed – from functional eateries to sophisticated dining spaces that can compete with any high-end restaurant. This evolution is perhaps a reflection of Mumbai’s changing food culture and the growing sophistication of diners.
