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   BEST PARSI CAFES

The Secret Recipe from Iran: The 100-Year Journey of the World’s Most Famous Berry Pulav

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The Story: Established in 1923, Britannia is arguably the most famous Parsi restaurant in the world. Located in the majestic Ballard Estate, the restaurant is housed in a heritage building designed by the same architect who built the Gateway of India. With its high ceilings and vintage posters, it feels like a grand dining hall from the British Raj era.

  • WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE TO GO THERE: To taste the Berry Pulav. The recipe was brought from Iran by the late Boman Kohinoor’s wife and remains a closely guarded family secret.
  • WHY PEOPLE LOVE TO GO THERE: The Caramel Custard and the nostalgic vibe. It’s a “lunch-only” spot that captures the soul of old Bombay.
  • IN THERE WHAT IS FAMOUS PLACE TO VISIT: Ballard Estate, with its wide, European-style streets and stunning stone architecture.
  • FUN FACT: The barberries used in their famous pulav are still specially imported from Iran to maintain the authentic tangy flavor.
  • GOOGLE RATING: ⭐ 4.3
  • HOW TO GO THERE:
    • TRAIN: A 10-minute walk from CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus).
    • TAXI: “Opposite New Custom House, Ballard Estate.”

120 Years of Breakfast: Why Your Mumbai Morning Must Start at Kyani & Co.

The Story: Operating since 1904, Kyani & Co. is one of the oldest surviving Irani cafes in the city. It’s a bustling hub where the city’s diverse population—from college students to old-timers—converges under spinning ceiling fans. The dark wood paneling and jars of biscuits create an atmosphere that hasn’t changed in over a century.

  • WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE TO GO THERE: For the Quintessential Breakfast. There is no better way to start a Mumbai morning than with their Irani Chai and Bun Maska.
  • WHY PEOPLE LOVE TO GO THERE: The Mawa Cakes and Mutton Keema Pav. It’s incredibly affordable and offers a real slice of the city’s daily life.
  • IN THERE WHAT IS FAMOUS PLACE TO VISIT: The iconic Metro Inox Theatre is right across the road, and Marine Drive is a short walk away.
  • FUN FACT: Kyani still maintains its vintage “Rules” board, which famously includes humorous instructions like “No talking to the cashier” and “No free advice.”
  • GOOGLE RATING: ⭐ 4.2
  • HOW TO GO THERE:
    • TRAIN: Located right outside Marine Lines Station (East).
    • TAXI: “Dhobi Talao, opposite Metro Cinema.”

Sweet, Spicy, and Crunchy: Why the Salli Boti at Jimmy Boy has a Cult Following

The Story: While many Irani cafes are casual snacks-and-tea spots, Jimmy Boy (established in 1925) is a full-service restaurant. It became a legend by bringing the Lagan Nu Bhonu—the elaborate feast served at Parsi weddings—to the general public. It’s a slightly more upscale way to experience Parsi culinary heritage.

  • WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE TO GO THERE: To experience a Parsi Wedding Feast without an invitation! The Lagan Nu Bhonu includes everything from fish to meat to dessert.
  • WHY PEOPLE LOVE TO GO THERE: Their Salli Boti (sweet and spicy mutton topped with potato straws) and Patra Ni Machhi (fish steamed in banana leaf).
  • IN THERE WHAT IS FAMOUS PLACE TO VISIT: Horniman Circle and the Asiatic Library are just around the corner.
  • FUN FACT: The restaurant was originally called “Cafe India” before being rebranded as Jimmy Boy in 1999 to modernize its image while keeping the recipes traditional.
  • GOOGLE RATING: ⭐ 4.2
  • HOW TO GO THERE:
    • TRAIN: Equidistant from Churchgate and CST Station.
    • TAXI: “Bank Street, near Horniman Circle, Fort.”

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