Bandra Guide
Mumbai's Queen of the Suburbs — cafes, nightlife, street art, and Bollywood glamour
Bandra is where Mumbai lets its hair down. This vibrant suburb on the western coastline is the city's cultural and culinary capital — home to Bollywood stars, India's best restaurants, a thriving street art scene, and nightlife that rivals any city in Asia. From the sea-link views at Bandra Fort to the legendary chaos of Linking Road shopping, from craft cocktails at hidden speakeasies to ₹150 biryanis at street stalls, Bandra contains multitudes. It is the neighborhood where old Mumbai charm meets new-age cool.
What to See in Bandra
The landmarks, walks, and experiences that make Bandra special.
Bandstand Promenade & Shah Rukh Khan's Mannat
Must SeeThe Bandstand Promenade is a scenic 1.2 km walkway along the rocky Arabian Sea coastline. The star attraction for most visitors is Mannat — Shah Rukh Khan's lavish sea-facing bungalow. Fans gather outside the gates hoping for a glimpse of King Khan, especially on his birthday (November 2) and Eid when he waves from the balcony. Beyond the celebrity draw, the promenade itself is lovely at sunset with views stretching to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
Bandra Fort (Castella de Aguada)
HeritageA Portuguese fort built in 1640 perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. While the fort itself is a ruin, the location is spectacular — offering unobstructed views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and the Mumbai skyline. It is one of the best sunset spots in the city. The surrounding garden area has been renovated and is a peaceful escape from the Bandra buzz.
Mount Mary Basilica
ReligiousA beautiful Roman Catholic basilica perched on a hilltop in Bandra, originally built in 1570 by the Portuguese. The current Gothic-style structure dates to 1904. Mount Mary is a major pilgrimage site, and the annual Bandra Fair (September) around the church is one of Mumbai's most vibrant festivals with food stalls, carnival rides, and a week-long celebration attended by people of all faiths.
Bandra Street Art Trail
ArtBandra's lanes are an open-air art gallery. The Chapel Road area, Waroda Road, and the lanes around Pali Naka feature stunning murals, graffiti, and street art by Indian and international artists. Themes range from Bollywood to social commentary to abstract art. The St+art India Foundation has been instrumental in transforming Bandra walls into canvases. A self-guided walk takes about 1-2 hours.
Carter Road
LifestyleBandra's most popular evening hangout — a scenic road running along the waterfront where Mumbai comes to unwind. Joggers, couples, families, and dog-walkers share the promenade at sunset. The road is lined with some of Bandra's best restaurants (Bastian, The Salt Water Cafe, Hoppipola). On weekends, street performers and musicians often set up along the path.
Best Cafes & Restaurants
Bandra has the highest concentration of excellent restaurants in Mumbai. Here are the essentials.
Bastian
Mumbai's most hyped restaurant, co-owned by a Bollywood celebrity. Bastian serves exceptional seafood and Asian-fusion dishes in a glamorous setting. The butter garlic crab and truffle edamame are legendary. Expect to spot celebrities. Book well in advance — walk-ins are nearly impossible on weekends.
Pali Village Cafe
A charming cafe in a converted bungalow on Pali Mala Road. The leafy courtyard, exposed brick walls, and curated playlist create the quintessential Bandra vibe. Excellent for brunch — the eggs Benedict and banana walnut pancakes are favorites. Also great for a quiet afternoon coffee with a book.
Social
A co-working space by day and a buzzing bar by night. The Bandra outpost of this popular chain occupies a beautiful old building with multiple levels and quirky industrial decor. The cocktails are inventive (try the Chai Sour), and the food menu covers everything from sliders to biryani. Great for groups.
Grandmama's Cafe
A nostalgic cafe that serves Indian comfort food with a modern twist. The decor is charming with vintage family photos and mismatched furniture. The kheema pav is outstanding, the Old Monk rum cake is a signature dessert, and the chai is perfectly spiced. Multiple branches in Bandra.
The Salt Water Cafe
An elegant all-day dining spot on Carter Road with a breezy, whitewashed Mediterranean ambiance. Known for excellent pizzas, pastas, and a stellar brunch menu. The tiramisu is one of the best in Mumbai. Perfect for a relaxed meal after a Carter Road sunset walk.
Lucky Biryani
For a completely different Bandra experience, head to this no-frills street-side stall near Bandra Station. The chicken biryani is aromatic, loaded with meat, and costs a fraction of what you would pay at the fancy restaurants. A true local favorite that proves the best food is not always the most expensive.
Bandra Nightlife
From legendary dive bars to hidden speakeasies, Bandra owns Mumbai's night scene.
Toto's Garage
Dive BarBandra's most beloved dive bar, packed to the gills every night with a mix of college students, creative professionals, and old-timers. The decor is garage-themed with license plates and hubcaps on the walls. The beer is cheap, the music is rock, and the vibe is unapologetically casual. Cash only.
The Little Door
SpeakeasyA hidden speakeasy-style bar behind an unmarked door on Pali Hill. The cocktails are craft-level — seasonal menus with innovative ingredients. The ambiance is intimate with low lighting, plush seating, and a sophisticated crowd. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Monkey Bar
GastropubA multi-level gastropub with a rooftop terrace. Strong cocktail menu, craft beers on tap, and a food menu that goes beyond typical bar snacks (the pulled pork sliders and butter chicken spring rolls are excellent). Gets lively after 10 PM on weekends.
Izzy's
LoungeAn upscale lounge at the Taj Lands End hotel with stunning views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. Premium cocktails, curated wine list, and a refined atmosphere. One of the few places in Bandra where you can drink with a proper view. Dress smart-casual.
Linking Road Shopping
Linking Road is Bandra's shopping spine — a long, chaotic stretch packed with street stalls and shops selling everything from ₹200 sneakers to designer knockoffs. It connects Bandra Station to Khar and is best explored on foot.
Street Stalls
Trendy clothes, bags, shoes, sunglasses, and phone accessories at bargain prices. Bargain hard — start at 40% of the asking price. The stalls near Bandra Station have the widest selection.
Hill Road Boutiques
The parallel Hill Road has more curated shopping — indie fashion boutiques, shoe stores, and branded outlets. Less bargaining required but more reliable quality. Good for gifts and souvenirs.
Elco Market
The Elco Pani Puri Centre on Hill Road is a Bandra institution — possibly the best pani puri in Mumbai. Grab a plate of pani puri (₹60) and sev puri while shopping. The chaat here is consistently excellent.
Bandra Tips
Use the Bandra Skywalk
The elevated skywalk connects Bandra Station to various parts of Bandra West, helping you avoid the chaotic street-level traffic. It is particularly useful during rush hour and monsoon season when the streets flood.
Explore Pali Naka on Foot
The area around Pali Naka (Pali Hill junction) is the heart of Bandra's cafe culture. Park yourself at one cafe, then walk to the next. Within a 500-meter radius you will find Pali Village Cafe, Suzette, Veronica's, and a dozen more.
Visit Linking Road for Shopping
Linking Road is Bandra's main shopping street, stretching from Bandra Station to Khar. Street stalls sell trendy clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories at bargain prices. The Hill Road area has branded outlets and boutiques for a more curated experience.
Weekend vs Weekday
Bandra is significantly more crowded on weekends. Carter Road and Bandstand become difficult to navigate, and restaurants have long waits. Visit Monday through Thursday for a more relaxed experience. Saturday nights are the best for nightlife.
Take the Train
Bandra Station is on the Western Line and connects directly to Churchgate (South Mumbai) in about 30 minutes. During non-peak hours, the local train is the fastest and cheapest way to travel. Avoid rush hour (8-10:30 AM and 5:30-8:30 PM).
Respect Mannat Etiquette
While it is fine to take photos outside Shah Rukh Khan's Mannat, do not block the road, climb gates, or create a nuisance. Security guards are present and will ask you to move along if you linger too long. A quick photo from across the road is sufficient.
More Mumbai to Explore
Continue your Mumbai adventure with our neighborhood guides and nightlife recommendations.
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