Unveiling Mumbai’s Hidden Gems: Discovering the Best Kept Secrets in Food, Entertainment, and Architecture
Mumbai, the city of dreams, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and architectural styles. While the city’s iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel are well-known, there are several hidden gems that remain relatively unexplored. This article aims to unveil some of these best-kept secrets in food, entertainment, and architecture that make Mumbai a city like no other.
Food
When it comes to food, Mumbai is a gastronomic delight. Beyond the popular street food and high-end restaurants, there are several lesser-known eateries that offer unique culinary experiences.
Bagdadi Restaurant: Tucked away in the bylanes of Colaba, Bagdadi is a small eatery known for its mouth-watering Mughlai dishes. Their Chicken Afghani and Mutton Biryani are must-tries.
Ayub’s: A hidden gem in Fort, Ayub’s is famous for its succulent kebabs. The place is small and easy to miss, but the food is worth the search.
Sassanian Boulangerie: This century-old Parsi bakery in Dhobi Talao serves some of the best Mawa cakes and Bun Maska in the city.
Entertainment
Mumbai’s entertainment scene is not just limited to Bollywood. The city has a vibrant theatre culture and hosts several music festivals and art exhibitions throughout the year.
Prithvi Theatre: Located in Juhu, Prithvi Theatre is a hub for theatre enthusiasts. They host plays in various languages and also have a charming café.
BlueFROG: This live music venue in Lower Parel is a haven for music lovers. They host performances by local and international artists across genres.
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum: This lesser-known museum in Byculla showcases the city’s cultural history and hosts regular art exhibitions.
Architecture
Mumbai’s architectural landscape is a blend of Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, and contemporary styles. While the city’s colonial buildings are well-known, there are several architectural marvels that often go unnoticed.
Watson’s Hotel: Now known as Esplanade Mansion, this is India’s oldest surviving cast iron building. It’s currently in a dilapidated state but is a testament to Mumbai’s architectural history.
David Sassoon Library: This library in Kala Ghoda is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The library is still functional and also hosts literary events.
Art Deco Buildings: Mumbai has the second-largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world, after Miami. The buildings along Marine Drive and Oval Maidan are worth exploring.
These hidden gems add to the charm and diversity of Mumbai, making it a city that never ceases to surprise. So, the next time you’re in Mumbai, make sure to explore these lesser-known facets of the city.
