6 Mumbai Kheema-Paos To Ward Off Your Monsoon Blues

If there’s one thing Mumbai never gets wrong, it’s breakfast. From crispy dosas, steaming egg akuri and buttered toast, to vada pao with some simple cutting chai—there’s something for everyone. Some of the best breakfasts though, come from the Parsis and there’s no denying it. If anyone knows their eggs and meat in this city, it’s them. The physical embodiment of that very combination comes in the form of the Kheema Ghotala; mutton mince with egg scrambled into it while it’s cooking. It only made sense for us to narrow down our favourite breakfast joints that serve up a mean plate of spiced kheema, with or without the beloved anda.

I. Cafe Excelsior

Where: 23, AK Nayak Marg, Opposite New Excelsior Cinema, Fort

Nearly a century old, Cafe Excelsior has managed to perfect the balance between the spices and masala in their kheema. While their Kheema Ghotala may be double the price of their Kheema Pav, we can promise it makes for the perfect Sunday breakfast. Plus, they’re open from 8am, every single day of the week.

Cost: At INR 120, this Irani Cafe will have you back for more, every weekend.

II. Cafe Military

Where: Ali Chamber, Tamrind Lane, Fort

A lazy little Irani joint that specializes in breakfast—specifically kheema. Or rather, everything to do with red meat and eggs. Also, even if you go for breakfast, sampling their caramel custard is a must. No excuses. You haven’t lived until you’ve eaten some of the best custard in town. P.S. we’d go for the Kheema Gotala here, if we were you.

Cost: Get two for sure, when one platecomes at INR 120.

III. Good Luck Cafe

Where: Opposite Mehboob Studios, Near Bandstand, Bandra West

We’re so thankful for this iconic Bandra cafe! Countless mornings have been spent here, wiping down a plate of kheema with pao. While we agree that perhaps they overdo it with the chillies, you can always ask for a slice of cheese on top to help deal with the spice (or just because. We won’t judge.)

Cost: You know where to find us, when it’s INR 160.

IV. Hotel Grant House

Where: Near MRA Police Station, Palton Road, Mumbai CST Area

The kheema at Grant’s is a strong contester for top three, for sure. If you’re going to go on a Kheema trail, this is what you want to end with—it’s hard to top them. It’s the signature dish at the canteen, no doubt. Minced meat spiced just right accompanied by some of the softest pao available that side of town.

Cost: INR 95? Get in our belly already.

V. Koolar & Co.

Where: 541, Noor Mahal, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Adenwada Road, Matunga East

Now, now. Before you roll your eyes at this option, we understand how hyped this joint is. It’s been in a few movies, the chequered tables make for quite the ambience—BUT the food does live up to our expectations! Also, it goes to show that Matunga isn’t just about that good ol’ dosa-idli. (People may complain a bit about the loud owner, but if anything, he adds to the experience.)

Cost: A tad bit overpriced at INR 220, but worth it.

VI. Olympia Cafe

Where: Rahim Mansion 1, SB Road, Colaba

Yet another legendary cafe that will complete a century of serving up some delicious, piping hot breakfasts, is Olympia. Get there earlier in the day, as they only serve kheema for breakfast. Sit back, order yourself a plate of their special kheema and watch Mumbai bustle by as you sip on some chai.

Cost: Unbelievable and so, so good at INR 50.

Feature Image Credit—Maunika Gowardhan