Bombay’s affair with the Parsi community has never been under wraps. Having witnessed the transformation from Bombay to Mumbai, they sure have taken care of the city and how! The community was involved greatly in the development of South Mumbai and truly has filled the area with its essence. Even today, you can see the Parsi contribution in several parts of South Mumbai. Besides architecture and education, they also raised the bars of Mumbai’s food scene. There are unforgettable eateries, introduced by them, all over the city that have been a part of many of our childhoods. Let’s take you down memory lane with 4 such Parsi eateries in Mumbai that you must try.
List Of Famous Parsi Eateries In Mumbai
- Jimmy boy
- RTI
- Cafe Military
- Parsi Dairy
1. Jimmy Boy
Jimmy Boy is a family restaurant built out of love for family, culture, and of course, food! Since 1925, an Irani family has owned and operated the restaurant out of Horniman Circle. While tucked into a cozy corner of a heritage building in Fort, it is quintessentially a Parsi favorite of all the Mumbaikars!
The restaurant was rebranded in 1999, and to up its food game, a slew of other Parsi favorites were added to the menu. The new idea was to serve Lagan nu Bhonu (Parsi wedding food) at the restaurant.
Like every Indian family lineage ever, Jimmy Boy too has closely guarded its recipes and has truly stuck to them. Yes, the tasty delicacies that you devour at this place have been prepared from decades-old recipes! To experience everything Parsi, go to Jimmy Boy because it doesn’t just serve authentic food, but it also offers hospitality warm enough to balance the cold drinks.
Must-haves: Patra Ni Macchi, Nimacchi, Salli Boti, Keema Pav, Chicken Berry Pulao, Dhansak, Dhun Dal, Akhuris, and Prawns Patio
Address: Vikas Building, 11 Bank Street Opposite SBI Office, Horniman Circle, Fort, Mumbai, 400 023
Timings: 8.30 am to 11.00 pm
Price: Approximately INR 800 for two
2. RTI
You have all the right to be informed about RTI, except, we’re still talking about food here! In an easily missable lane of Colaba lies this not-so-easy-to-forget Parsi eatery.
RTI has dine-in but also offers takeaway so you can relish their tasty and authentic Parsi food from the comfort of your home. But we suggest you visit the restaurant to experience the casual and chill ambiance, ideal for customers of all age groups.
Must-haves: Quiches, Sandwiches, and Cutlets
Address: 12/F, Colaba Causeway, Scindia Society, Police Colony, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
Timings: 10 am to 10 pm
Price: Approximately INR 1,000 for two
3. Cafe Military
Another Iranian icon in the world of food is the Cafe Military. Delighting Indians and colonials since 1933, this cafe is truly a gastronomical experience for all. Located in the bylanes of Mumbai’s legal hub, Cafe Military has long been the favorite Parsi eatery for college students, office workers, and the common public.
Despite the legacy and fame garnered, you’ll always find the owner of the cafe smiling and greeting you with warmth and love. The cafe has a simple yet delicious menu to offer, often paired with the cafe’s classic booze: beer.
You can choose to have either breakfast, lunch, a light snack, or a heavy dinner with their culinary variety.
Must-haves: Boneless Mutton Biryani, Chicken Salli, Kheema Fry, Kheema Ghotala, Raspberry Soda, and Salli Boti
Address: Alli Chambers, Nagindas Master Rd, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
Timings: 10 am to 9 pm
Price: Approximately INR 500 for two
4. Parsi Dairy Farm
We’re not dealing in decades with this Parsi eatery. Why? No, it’s not new, on the contrary, it’s a century old! This 107-year-old eatery is currently being operated by its 4th generation. Unlike the rest of the eateries mentioned, Parsi Dairy Farm specializes in everything sweet. From sweets to ice cream, you name it, they have it.
You can choose from a diverse range of desserts offered, some of which are authentic Parsi desserts. Usually crowded with the public, this place also has a takeaway facility and home delivery.
Must-haves: Raspberry Khopra Pak, Piped Jalebi, Bundi Laddoo, Kaju Katli, and Sutarfeni
Address: Shop number 12/13, Jayant Villa, Tilak Road, Pant Nagar, Ghatkopar East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400077
Timings: 8 am to 10.30 pm
Price: Approximately INR 100 for one piece
Summing Up
In the fast-paced city of Mumbai, these 4 Parsi eateries appeared to be frozen in time. All the places mentioned above have indeed successfully preserved the essence of Bombay and the culture of the Parsi community. For some tasty food and memorabilia, visit these eateries and enjoy a nice time!
FAQs
What Food Is Parsis Famous For?
The most famous Parsi dishes are mawa cake, bun maska, berry pulao, and keema pav.
How Many Irani Cafes Are There In Mumbai?
According to the local community, there are approximately 25 Irani cafes in Mumbai. Some of the best Iranian cafes are Yazdani Restaurant & Bakery, Cafe Excelsior, Ideal Corner, and Britannia & Co. Restaurant.
What Is Bhakra Parsi Food?
Bhakras are typical teatime snacks that the Parsi community loves to eat. They are like round thick biscuits which are slightly crusty on the outside but soft inside.
Do Parsis Eat Fish?
Yes. Parsis eat Parsi fish dishes like Tareli Macchi (fried spiced fish) and Shrimp Patio
Do Parsis Eat Veg or Veg?
Parsi are non-vegetarian, with sheep and goat dishes on most menus. However, many of them also eat vegetarian dishes.
