As Kala Ghoda Arts Festival takes the virtual route this time; we have curated the ultimate guide to Kala Ghoda
Representative Image. Pic/iStock
Mumbai's popular Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is going virtual this weekend with a number of exciting workshops, events, and more. A cultural hotspot, the neighbourhood is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars serving a wide variety of foods and beverages. And since you cant head there for the actual festival, we've handpicked the best of Kala Ghoda, so you can soak in the neighbourhood nevertheless.
Burmese flavours
Among the many varied cuisines one can find in Kala Ghoda, Burmese is an absolute delight. Burma Burma serves some of the hottest dishes from this underrated and flavourful cuisine. The all vegetarian restaurant offers an extensive menu that is well suited to the Indian palette. Start off with Samuza Hincho (INR 300) or Lotus Stem Crisps (INR 380) and follow it up with their signature Burma Burma Oh No Khowsuey (INR 520).
AT: Kothari House, Allana Centre Lane, opposite Mumbai University, Kala Ghoda, Fort
TIME: 12-3 PM, 6:30- 10:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Lebanese indulgence
If you're in the mood for some delectable Middle-Eastern food, Rue de Liban is the perfect place to be. Lovers of hummus will find here several twists on the classic, with beetroot and pumpkin flavours as well. The extensive mezze menu includes both cold and hot popular dishes, from Mouhamara (INR 700) to Falafel (INR650). House special Batanjein bi Tahini, slow roasted aubergine with yoghurt tahini, should not be missed.
AT: 43, Sasoon Building, VB Gandhi Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort
TIME: 12-3 PM, 7-11:15 PM, Monday to Sunday
CALL: 745000015
Healthy and fabulous
Fab Cafe serves lip-smacking variants of our favourite foods, from wheat-free Galouti on Kuttu Discs (INR 360) to Spinach, Spring Onion, and Water Chestnut momos (INR300) made of jackfruit flour. The cafe is ideal for those who seek healthier alternatives without compromising on taste. Offering a bevy of breakfast dishes including Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes (INR 260), and Low-Cal Polenta Upma (INR 270), their menu also offers tempting Indian street foods. The Crusty Baked Samosa Chaat (INR 210) comes highly recommended.
AT: Jeroo Building, 137, First Floor, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Colaba
TIME: 10 AM- 11 PM, Monday to Sunday
North Indian decadence
Famed for its North Indian fare, Khyber is a must-try. The elegant restaurant has offers meting tandoori kebabs, including classics such as Reshmi Kebab (INR 590) and Tangdi Kebab (INR 590). The Paneer Honey Mustard Tikka (Rs 530) is an interesting option for vegetarians owing to its delicate honey and mustard marinade. Main course specialities include Khyber Raan (INR 1915) and Paneer Tikka Masala (INR 590).
AT: 145, MG Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort
TIME: 12:30-3:30 PM, 7:30-11 PM, Monday to Sunday
CALL: 40396666
Quintessential Irish Pub
The Irish House is responsible for popularising the Irish Pub experience across the country. Situated in the heart of Kala Ghoda, they continue serving the most interesting beverages and food. Munch on their Bouquet of Fries (INR 325) or opt for some Messy Wings (INR 475). Emulating its Irish counterparts to perfection, the pub's beer inventory is huge. Cocktail sippers can try the Dark Monk (INR 325), a base of dark rum with fresh pineapple juice and activated charcoal.
AT: 30 K Dubhash Marg, Near Rhythm House, Kala Ghoda, Fort
TIME: 1 PM- 11 PM, Monday- Sunday
Coffee at best
With outlets across the city, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters have grown at lightning speed owing to their first rate coffee. Blue Tokai offers multiple interesting Mochas (Rs 220) for you to relish: Peppermint, Chilli Cinnamon, and Sea Salt. For those who would like to opt for something cold, their Coffee Tonic (Rs 240), which is a unique blend of tonic and espresso, is a must-try.
AT: Ground Floor, Plot-17/19, Wadia Building, Dalal St, opp. Bombay Stock exchange, Kala Ghoda, Fort
TIME: 8 AM- 9 PM Monday to Sunday
The OG cafe
The Kala Ghoda Cafe is central to the cafe culture of the area. Serving delightful sandwiches, waffles, salads, pizzas, and much more, the cafe has something for everyone. Those with a restrictive diet can opt for their vegan and gluten-free options. Their gluten-free Margherita (INR 450), Vegan Curry (INR 440), Veg Lasagne (INR 420), BLT (INR 295), and Red Thai Ravas (INR 650) are a hit among patrons.
AT: Ground Floor, Plot 17/19, Wadia Building, Fort
TIME: 8 AM- 11 PM, Monday to Sunday
CALL: 33803418