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I’ve witnessed the immaculate beauty of Bandra Kurla Complex, colloquially known as ‘BKC’. One of Mumbai’s foremost commercial hubs, full of tall constructions, each building a shade of black, blue, grey - colours we associate with perceived elitism of the corporate world. As a child, I was always excited to take a detour and witness how different BKC was from the rest of the city, a temporary erasure of all of its faults even if it was just for a few minutes.
Now, as an adult, I view the same neighbourhood a lot more differently. I can spot the monotony in the lives of those who tread the isolated roads of BKC, the plainness that hides beneath the fancy glass walls. While working in BKC might indeed be a pleasure and a privilege even, for some, one can’t deny how dull the area has always been. Apart from the regular office-goers and bus/rickshaw/cab drivers, not many visit the prominent Bandra Kurla Complex. Not willingly, at least. And definitely not for anything fun.
However, in the last few years, the food and beverage industry has indeed added the much-needed splash of colour that was lacking for so long. One no longer needs to step out after work and travel all the way till Bandra West (or further) to go have a good time. Even during the day, grabbing a quick lunch within the dull premises of BKC, or ordering in at your workplace, has become so much more easier considering the number of restaurants, cafes, and bars that have sprouted in the recent past.
From good old desi butter chicken to thai cuisine to food trucks, BKC today is a stellar example of how neighbourhoods are capable of evolving over time. In fact, BKC hasn’t just evolved, it has pretty much developed a whole different side to it ̶ one that stands in stark contrast to the uninteresting atmosphere that generally prevails in the area. And in case you haven’t heard about the best food joints in the area, fret not. Whether it’s indulgent dinners, post-work socialising scenes, or simply treating yourself - this Homegrown guide will help you pick a place that’s perfect for your needs.
Where: Ground Floor, The Capital, G Block, Behind ICICI Bank Building, Bandra Kurla Complex.
The Good Wife’s comfortable, laid back vibe accentuated by the wood panelling, warm lighting, and the wall dedicated to the names of women is exactly the kind of unwinding all of us deserve (and need). Try their Pumpkin goat cheese tortellini or the homestyle baked pizzas that come with an unusually thin crust (Hearty-choke). The cocktail menu is diverse, creative, and very reasonably priced ̶ think Mrs. Robinson, Breakfast martini, and The Office Gigolo. For unusual desserts, we’d recommend the Rosemary Apple Pie — a very different experience that will not disappoint.
Cost: INR 2,500 for two.
Where: 3, Maker Maxity, North Avenue, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Known for their breakfast spreads, LPQ is for anyone who likes to keep a check on their health but doesn’t want to give up eating outside food. Everything served here is healthy. Whether it’s to grab a quick avocado toast right before you or a delicious lunch spent basking in the warm glory of the afternoon sun, LPQ is the kind of place that exudes a peaceful, warm vibe in the middle of BKC’s hustle bustle.
Cost: INR 2,000 for two.
Where: Maker Maxity, 3, North Avenue, Bandra Kurla Complex.
If you love gorging on a lovely salad or a really healthy sandwich, Kitchen Garden by Suzette is where you should be. A refreshing ambience and great food make up this tiny little eatery in BKC. Try their chicken basil or falalfel sandwich. Alternatively, pick anything from their menu and get it customised just the way you like!
Cost: INR 1,000 for two.
IV. Ramdas Hotel
Where: 4, Family Court, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Amongst the barrage of fine dining options in BKC, Ramdas Hotel is a rather humble preference for anyone who wants to get the best of their money. More of a canteen than a restaurant, the ambience is simple, nothing over-the-top. However, it’s the food that keeps you coming back for more. With dishes like Mysore Masala Dosa and Pav bhaji, you can never go wrong. We’d recommend trying their lunch thali which is available in the afternoon. From Punjabi food to Indian Chinese to sandwiches and other variety of snacks, this one’s meant for all taste buds!
Cost: INR 400 for two.
Where: One BKC, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Bombay Food Truck’s (BFT) menu caters to everyone — those bored of routine desi food and those craving ghar ka khana. “Gourmet street food with a twist” is how BFT describes their approach to Indian fusion cuisine. BFT’s unique flavour combinations are refreshing and pleasantly surprising, and are ideal for the foodie looking to break away from the monotony.
Cost: INR 500 for two.
VI. True Tramm Trunk
Where: G2C, Trade Centre, Opposite MTNL, Skoda Showroom, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Known for serving up some of the quirkiest cocktails in the area, one glance at True Tramm Trunk’s menu is all you need to be convinced of why it should be your go-to spot for all the post-work socialisation scenes. Their cocktails, called ‘Goti Soda’, are interesting indigenous soda drinks that are served in a bottle. Home-made soda infused with jaljeera masala, vodka and lime, or bubble-gum infused vodka are some of the exciting offerings on their menu. There’s also a dance floor that’s almost always packed, especially on Friday nights, and a menu that’s an interesting mix of pretty much everything from Mumbai’s street food to Japanese and Italian fare.
Cost: INR 1,500 for two.
VII. Nara
Where: Ground Floor, Raheja Towers, Near Dena Bank, Bandra Kurla Complex.
There’s no other place you should even be thinking of when it comes to authentic Thai cuisine. From salmon fish cakes to crispy lotus stems to prawn salads, Nara serves a variety of soups, curries, and seafood platters that are a tad expensive but completely worth the indulgence. They also have a special Flavours of Nara buffet which is served from Monday to Saturday, 12-4 pm and includes a delicious variety of Thai fare like crispy corn cake, tom yum, spicy raw papaya salad, jasmine rice, and nara coconut ice cream with condiments. So head here for a slice of Thailand in India.
Cost: INR 1,800 for two.
VIII. Tea Trails
Where: 308, 3rd Floor, Sky Lobby, The Capital Building, Opposite ICICI Bank, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Although offices these days are much more creative than they were a decade ago, the monotony can somehow seep in through the blinders anyway. And sometimes, a change of space is all you need to get your brains working again, especially if your day isn’t going as well as you imagined it would. For times like these, Tea Trails is exactly what you need. From desi Bun Maska and Paneer 65 to exotic salads and pastas, Tea Trails has a menu that’s quite exhaustive and caters to all kinds of foodies. And of course, their unique collection of blended tea handpicked by tea sommeliers is what makes this place stand out. Because despite the innumerable coffee shops today, one seldom has a chance to explore the wide variety of tea that is consumed across the world.
Cost: INR 800 for two.
IX. BusaGo
Where: Ground Floor, FIFC Building, Bandra Kurla Complex.
For South east Asian food at prices that won’t break your bank, head to BusaGo. With its wooden tables, metal chairs, and a constant smell of coconut in the air, chef Nikhil Chib serves up the best thai curries, khow suey, and momos. Many of the dishes on the menu come with their own mysterious stories — like the Burmese Chicken Kaukswe, which tastes phenomenal, is actually made from a generation-old recipe that has been passed down in the owner’s family. Make sure to end your meal with a banoffee in-a-cup or the flourless chocolate cake which is gluten free and healthier than most other chocolate desserts out there!
Cost: INR 800 for two.
Where: Trident Hotel, C 56, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Named after the city’s STD code, O22 at Trident is everything dream-like. Sophisticated with beautiful, classy interiors and food that exceeds itself. Known for its variety of breakfast combinations and fish preparations, we’re personally big fans of the soft and fluffy pancakes and the melt-in-your-mouth desserts like the homemade sorbets and Religieuse caramelito. Of course, when the food is so good, it always leaves you with a bit of regret for not being able to try everything on the menu! But don’t worry, 022’s buffet menu comes to the rescue just in time!
Cost: INR 4,000 for two.
XI. Dishkiyaaon
Where: Ground Floor, The Capital Building, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex.
An all-day restaurant and bar that opens up as early as 8 am - perfect to catch that last-minute breakfast just before heading off to work. Dishkiyaaon’s interiors are surprisingly lively and colourful, with a blue phone booth that makes the place all the more endearing. From reasonably-priced Indian and English breakfasts to Dishkiyaaon Kathi rolls and an exclusive Brunch menu - Dishkiyaaon is pretty much a one-stop-shop for all kinds of untimely food cravings.
Cost: INR 1,200 for two.
Delivery Only
Where: Opposite Chetna College, Bandra Kurla Complex.
With its very simple and affordable menu and an efficient delivery system, Charcoal Eats Express is for all the biryani enthusiasts in the house. Flavour-packed and steaming, Charcoal’s menu has a range of options — from Afghani and Lucknow-style to Makhani and Tikka biryani, everything comes in options of veg, chicken, and mutton. They also have a handful of starters like Achaari Aloo and Chicken Seekh Kebab. Don’t forget to end your meal with a delicious salted caramel mousse.
Cost: INR 500 for two.
XIII. Mojo Pizza - 2X Toppings
Where: 1, Near Vibgyor Tower, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Who doesn’t like Pizza? It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a movie night in, or the safe last resort for when you don’t want to skim through the menu. Known for its cheesy goodness, pocket-friendly prices, and timely delivery, Mojo Pizza is one of the best pizza places in the areas. Try their Tex-Mex special or the Crowded House which comes with extra cheese and a whole lot of veggies or the Meat Eater. You can also choose the kind of crust you want — thin, pan tossed, crispy thin, or chicken cheese blast!
Cost: INR 500 for two.
Special Mention
Where: 1st Floor, Club House Equinox Business Park, Kurla, Off BKC.
While Bar Stock Exchange isn’t exactly a food place (obviously), it’s still a great place to unwind after a particularly bad day at work. A one-of-its-kind concept in India, BSE serves both food and alcohol at extremely cheap rates. (Sometimes even at the MRP cost) Alcohol prices tend to keep varying through the day and if you’re lucky, you might just get the best deals. Finally a place where you can enjoy without having to incessantly glance at the right side of the menu. Happy drinking!
Cost: INR 1,300 for two.
Feature Image: Instagram
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