Fine-Dining Restaurants
- Aj
- Feb 25
- 11 min read
If you’re hungry for food and want variety under one roof, be it Mediterranean, Middle Eastern (Irani), or even Seafood, Mumbai doesn’t lag. It has it all: high-end fine dining restaurants, top seafood restaurants, or even authentic top Iranian cafés. Once again, if you are reminiscing about the delectable taste of seafood, or the heady smell of Middle Eastern food, or the ambience of a small and chirpy café filled with some history, Mumbai has it all to offer. So whether you are a foodie looking for the most delicious food or simply wish to indulge in the local cuisine, Mumbai’s food scene will meet your expectations!
Top fine-dining restaurants
Namak - Indian Specialty Restaurant
Welcome to the effervescent world of Namak, where every meal provides a different experience of India's many-layered ethnic culinary treasures and abundance. Here at Namak, we believe food is more than mere feeding. Instead, it is an infinite celebration of culture, tradition, and stories handed down from generation to generation. Our tagline, "Zaika Ka Safar," invites you to a world full of flavours that glamorizes Indian cuisines in all their diversity.
The experience at Namak begins from the moment you enter through the welcoming doors. The tone set for an unforgettable culinary ride expresses the ambience, which is the right mix of classic Indian hospitality with contemporary elegance. The carefully handcrafted menu gives an ode to the different cuisines from all over India, where diners can explore the distinctive flavours and cooking techniques that inform each region of the country. Every dish at Namak echoes the authentic essence of its region, be it the royal kitchens of the Nizams of Hyderabad, the subtle sophistication of Awadhi dishes from Lucknow, the bold and earthy spices from Punjab, or the coconut-infused curries from southern India.
The chefs have one foot in centuries of experience and the other in an understanding of Indian flavours. They have put together a menu that is grounded in tradition and innovative. Traditions, after all, might be respected at Namak, but boundaries are there to be broken. The progressive menu offers a contemporary interpretation of classic Indian fare, combining traditional recipes with a Western twist, creating totally new possibilities. Ivy plates up creations she lovingly prepares from high-quality ingredients sourced locally and from around the world to ensure your experience consists of an honest balance of flavours, textures, and aromas.
One of the thrills of more dining in Namak, situated in the heart of downtown, is how we innovate in the kitchen while at the same time invoking the roots of Indian cuisine. For instance, the classic Hyderabadi Biryani features saffron, slow-cooked rice, and meat in a pure and new way, with a twist that lifts the dish higher without compromising authenticity. Taking into consideration the famous butter chicken made globally with a touch of the unfamiliar to enhance the fullness of taste, and at the same time, knowing the familiar will bring you wherever this iconic dish transports the palate to a whole new dimension.
Life does not only go inside Namak, reinterpreting the classic cuisine. We also ask our guests to leave their comfort zones and experience something new. Namak points a little toward the chef theatre, with a chef performing a daring and often surprising variety of advances in the perception of the culinary tradition known as Indian cuisine. Among them, experimental molecular gastronomy, almost most often married to importing international flavours, focuses on contemporising our culinary geographical senses.
Whether you want to rediscover a long-lost childhood dish or find something new, Namak has something to temper every craving. But whatever you choose, the one thing that is sure is an exceptional experience. Coupled with flawless service in a warm and inviting setting, it can only mean every meal here will always evoke an almost celebratory feeling.
And then, when the meal ends, the memory of it lingers on long after the last morsel has been eaten. Apart from being a restaurant, it's a journey through the diverse and colourful landscape of the culinary world of the country. It will be experienced once you get through the doors of Namak. Treat your family, share stories with friends or enjoy a romantic meal for two as Namak takes its guests on a journey to revisit every aspect of Indian cuisine and the presentations that it results in - each with a sprinkling of Namak magic. So come on this culinary journey - the "Zaika Ka Safar" - and take a closer look at the rich and vibrant world of Namak - where creativity meets flavour, and every meal is a celebration.
Address: Hotel Sahara Star, opposite Terminal 1, Navpada, Vile Parle East, Vile Parle, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099
Cost for two: Rupees 4000 or $47.58 without alcohol.
Operational Hours: 12:30 pm–3:00 pm and 7:00 pm–12:00 am
Peshawari
Peshawri, within the lap of the opulent ITC Maratha, Mumbai, sees imagination seep in as an unforgettable dining experience laden with the rough romance of the North-West Frontier. Inspired by the legendary Bukhara of Delhi, it stands out as a landmark restaurant in Mumbai, and somewhat like Tanjore Muthuswamy, it offers hearty and noteworthy cuisine. Drawing focus on a treatise on age-old tandoori and grilled meats, the culinary journey there takes diners into the rustic surroundings of North-West India, crucially flaunting authentic tastes served in a setting that is easy and elegant.
The atmosphere of Peshawari creates the ideal setting for a distinctive dining experience from the moment you enter. The menu itself is written on wooden boards, creating a quaint, vintage feel. The design is purposefully simple, with strong wooden stools in place of chairs. As is customary in the area, customers are encouraged to eat with their hands rather than using cutlery or tablecloths. You may completely immerse yourself in the flavours and textures of the cuisine without using utensils because a huge bib is provided to prevent you from ruining your clothes. Although this method may appear unsophisticated, it is all a part of the authenticity and charm that Peshawri seeks to offer. The view of the cooks tossing rumali rotis into the air and blistering meat being cooked handily at work is provided by the open kitchen with a front-row view at Peshwari. The air is crammed with inducing scents as the meats are cooked till their sublimity in the hot tandoors. To put a strong emphasis on the luscious grilled meats like the famous "Raan," which is a slow-cooked leg of lamb, the succulent "Seekh Kebab," and the tender yet juicy "Tandoori Chicken," what their menu consists of top-notch North-Western Indian cuisine. Apart from Non-vegetarian meat dishes, there are many equally indulgent vegetarian options available at Peshwari, with the creamy, buttery "Dal Bukhara" being an admired preference. To add, the ginormous family-sized naan, as big as the table itself, is conversation-sparking for gatherings seeking a lively & social meal.
The staff at Peshawari is cordial and vigilant as they make sure that all needs are achieved without being out of place. They walk you through their menu, analyse your tastes, and then describe the food while offering suggestions for exploring. One element, though, sticks out: the meal is delivered all at once rather than in courses, making it a faster-paced rather than leisurely affair. The majority of diners depart within an hour, so it's hardly a place where you'll stay for hours. However, neither the entire experience nor the quality of the cuisine is diminished by the efficiency.
Peshawari is undoubtedly more expensive than other places, especially when compared to Mumbai. With a few dishes and beverages, a meal for two can easily cost about ₹3,751, or about $45 USD. Drinks are particularly expensive; a beer, for example, costs ₹730 (about $8.75 USD) + VAT, which is high even for a luxury hotel. Even though the costs may seem high, those who want to sample Indian frontier food will find it to be a worthwhile treat because of the mix of mouth-watering flavours, the immersive experience, and the attentive service.
Peshawri offers a dining experience that is as genuine as it is decadent, whether you're hosting guests or just treating yourself to a special supper. The restaurant's attractiveness, the quality of its food, and the opportunity to eat with your hands in the authentic frontier way make it a must-visit for both visitors and foodies despite its exorbitant prices.
Address: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Int'l Airport Rd, near International Airport, Ashok Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099
Price for two: Rupees 8500 or $101.11.
Operational Hours: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm - 11:30 pm.
Joshi House
Deep into Mumbai's craziness, Joshi House is a heartwarming hiatus built on the busy yet lively streets of Pali Hill. This tasteful two-storey white villa, designed by famed architect Ashiesh Shah, is a visual delight. Shah has transformed this area into an urban sanctuary by deftly fusing architecture, design, and art. A glorious perception is fabricated by the building's hand-carved columns and mirrored ceilings, but the alluring ambience is cordial.
From a boho garden to a monochromatic dining area, the interior has an eclectic vibe. Imagine lounging on sofas with cushions encircled by a tree, potted plants, a trickling fountain, and bright red chairs. With its bohemian accents and hand-carved marble, this courtyard feels like a regal retreat right in the middle of the city.
A tiny terrace upstairs makes for the ideal dating location—secluded yet with a view of the bustling streets of the city. A whimsical touch is added to the entire experience by the high-backed armchairs with silver lion armrests.
There are comfortable Argentinian 'elephant safari bar.' that lead to an 'elephant safari bar.' Under a glittering mosaic ceiling, low charcoal couches provide a comfortable place to sip wine, while the walls are decorated with monochromatic murals of elephants. The space feels both intimate and vibrant, ideal for private dinners, events, or a lively brunch with friends.
With wine cocktails taking the stage, Joshi House's wine-only menu has a light-hearted touch. They have a savoury white wine called "Clear Curry," which is infused with curry leaves or kadipatta. It might sound unusual, but it’s surprisingly delicious. The cocktails complement the rich, inventive dishes like the sweet potato shammi topped with avocado salsa or the khasta kachori with mutton keema and nihari jus.
Joshi House's cuisine is a delicious blend of complex textures and strong flavours. Every bite seems well prepared, from the traditional tuna ceviche served with cucumber and sweet potato crackers to the delicate coconut and palm heart ceviche, a cool, revitalising dish with a tart apple salsa. While the truffle-infused palak saag gives classic Indian dishes a contemporary spin, the heartier flavours are accentuated by the thick laal maas, butter chicken, and kababs.
Thanks to the culinary prowess of Devraj Kalani and Aneek Kaur, the Vegan Crème Caramel and Pistachio Ghevar are must-try desserts. The outcome? It's a homely restaurant with a touch of luxury and decadence.
Joshi House offers five distinct dining areas, each with its own personality, ensuring you’ll find your perfect spot. Whether you're there for a quiet dinner, a cozy brunch, or just a glass of wine, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve discovered a hidden gem in the heart of Pali Hill.
Address: 602, Ambedkar Road, Pali Naka, Pali Hill, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Price for two: Rupees 3000 or USD $35.68.
Operational Hours: 11:30 am - 11:30 pm.
The Bombay Canteen
One of Mumbai's most renowned modern Indian dining establishments is the Bombay Canteen, which is situated in the center of the city. Because of its creative take on classic Indian food, it has gained popularity among foodies since it opened. This restaurant offers a culinary adventure that combines India's rich culinary legacy with a modern touch, led by Chef Hussain Shahzad, who also oversees the kitchens at O Pedro and Veronica's. The Bombay Canteen, which is housed in a busy area, offers a dining experience that is both familiar and novel. With each dish showcasing a strong connection to regional customs and ingredients, the restaurant has garnered multiple accolades for its contemporary interpretation of Indian classics.
The creativity shown in each plate is a direct result of Chef Shahzad's experience at Eleven Madison Park in New York.
The meal honours India's varied culinary traditions. Must-try delicacies include the Ghee Roast Chicken Seekh, the refreshing Chilled Sea Bass Sev Puri, and Eggs Kejriwal, a novel twist on Eggs Benedict topped with green chilli and coconut chutney. The restaurant embraces Mumbai's passion for street food while incorporating contemporary methods and flavours into its whimsical yet firmly traditional cuisine. The outcome? a cuisine that varies seasonally to feature the freshest local ingredients, and a dining experience that is both fresh and cozy.
The bar at The Bombay Canteen is just as good as the food for those who want to have a cocktail. Their cocktail menu consists of a variety of inventive and traditional drinks made using Indian ingredients that enhance traditional flavours. For instance, the Canteen Punch is a brass matka made with rose tea, kokum, and vodka that is brewed overnight to produce a rich, reviving flavour. Waiting List, which features citrusy overtones and is based on tequila, is another noteworthy example. Even though some cocktails, like the Old Monk-based Dark Monsoon, might not be to everyone's taste, there is no denying the inventiveness of each one.
One meal that is particularly noteworthy is the Tandoori Pork Ribs from the Bombay Canteen. This meal combines tender, succulent meat with smokey, charred flavours in a way that feels like a feast for your taste senses, served with crunchy green beans and a jaggery glaze. It's just one instance of how the eatery takes basic, everyday products and turns them into something genuinely unique.
The Bombay Canteen's meticulousness is what sets it apart. Every element of your visit feels well planned to make you feel at home, whether it's the welcoming atmosphere, the helpful staff, or the lively spirit that permeates the place. The restaurant celebrates the food we all know and love but with a unique touch and a lot of love. It's not just about expensive dining.
The Bombay Canteen guarantees an experience that will keep you coming back for more, whether you're searching for a place to eat with friends, spend time with family, or even treat yourself to some alone time. This restaurant is a must-visit location for any traveller to Mumbai since it not only honours heritage but also reimagines it.
Address: 602, Ambedkar Road, Pali Naka, Pali Hill, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Price for two: Rupees 4000 or USD $47.57
Operational Hours: 12:00 pm to 1:30 am
Gallops Restaurant
In the heart of Mumbai, a very timeless gem is Gallops; it's been a city favourite ever since it came into existence in 1986. Gallops was co-founded by Jasmine Singh and the late Rahul Malik; the restaurant brought something new and extraordinary to Mumbai’s dining scene—an elegant restaurant surrounded by sprawling green lawns with an unmatched view of the racecourse and galloping horses.
Fast forward to today, and Gallops remains a beloved destination for diners, thanks to its carefully updated interiors and consistent charm. The restaurant’s redesign was helmed by the same architect, Vistasp Kharas, who created the original look 26 years ago. The updated dining room is a blend of modern elegance and nostalgia, with luxurious walnut flooring, candle-lit tables, and stunning arched glass windows that frame the view of horses running across the racecourse’s green lawns. The atmosphere is one of understated sophistication, with houseplants adding a touch of greenery and the ceiling adorned with beautifully restored wooden trusses.
One of the highlights of Gallops’ new look is the stunning new bar, which features a captivating paper installation by Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar. Adding to the timeless charm is a historic Barnard’s clock from the 1860s, still hanging in its original spot. The walls, too, tell a story, decorated with equestrian-themed memorabilia and original drawings of the racecourse sourced from the private collection of architect Minocher Mistri.
Although they've added 40 new additions to their menu making it enticing, they've preserved the classic traditional dishes that people have adored for decades, like Chicken a la Kiev, Chicken Cecilia, and Prawn Thermidor. A standout from the new offerings is the Goan Grilled Prawns—five tiger prawns coated in a tangy, spicy recheado masala with a perfect char that complements the sweetness of toddy vinegar and the smokiness from fire-roasted onions.
For vegetarians, the Chargrilled Cauliflower is a must-try. Served on a bed of harissa tahini, it’s a dish that sings with flavour. Another unique offering is the Chicken Liver Pate, served like caviar with gherkins, rum-soaked raisins, hazelnuts, and tomato chilli chutney. The pate, enriched with a splash of sherry, is smooth, creamy, and subtly sweet, pairing wonderfully with a Picante tequila cocktail, which has a zesty kick from red chillies.
The Smoke Whiskey Negroni just complements the flavours of everything; it blends well. Let's talk about the mains; they're just as impressive, mainly the Daab Chingri, infused with punchy kasundi mustard and tender coconut, and the Pineapple Gojju, a sensational dish that delivers a sweet, tangy, and spicy explosion of flavours. The Braised Lamb Shank is truly a standout; it's so tender that it falls off the bone with the slightest touch of a spoon.
What truly sets Gallops apart is its warm, personalised service. Jasmine, along with the team led by chefs Yajush and Mikhail, personally attends to guests, greeting regulars and making newcomers feel welcome. After 38 years in the ever-evolving city of Mumbai, Gallops remains an iconic spot, cherished for its ambiance, its food, and its ability to create lasting memories for every visitor.
Address: Gate no 1, Inside Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Via, Keshavrao Khadye Marg, Royal Western India Turf Club, Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400034
Price for two: Rupees 2500 or USD $29.74 without alcohol.
Operational Hours: 12:00 pm to 12:00 am
