My Mumbai: Aneesh Bhasin takes us inside the City of Dreams
The entrepreneur and Mumbai resident explains why the Soho House pool is an underrated party spot and where to find the best Indian food
Wednesday 5 October 2022 By Aneesh Bhasin
Mumbai is a glorious mash-up of old and new. India’s so-called City of Dreams is the country’s commercial hub; a place where shining skyscrapers and cutting-edge arts, entertainment and nightlife rub easily alongside a history that stretches back centuries – with the cultural heritage to match.
Getting under the skin of a city this big and bustling isn’t easy if you’re new to it or passing through. Enter Aneesh Bhasin: Soho House Mumbai member, entrepreneur (he is the cofounder of drinks brand, Svami), A Niche Thing podcast creator – and all-around bon vivant.
Who better for an insider’s guide to his home city?
Where to party
‘I’m not really a party person as such, but I think the pool area at Soho House Mumbai is a very underrated party spot.’
Where to go for drinks
‘Americano, PCO and The Living Room, Masque – three bars that all have a great vibe and mix excellent drinks. The bar teams at each of them are incredibly skilled and will suggest or make drinks off the menu in line with your preferences, which is the kind of attention to detail I like.’
The best restaurants for dinner
‘The Tanjore Tiffin Room – a Tamilian bistro with a great choice of home-style curries that is simply some of the best Indian food in the city. I like that you can mix and match your protein.’
Where to get the best breakfast
‘Ram Ashraya and Madras Cafe are great for the usual South Indian breakfast options. Ram Ashraya opens as early as 5am – get there then and you can expect to meet families who have come early for breakfast, and people like us who have shown up after a long night of drinking.’
The independent stores you have to visit
‘Originally from Delhi, Jaywalking is a streetwear brand that now has a store in Kala Ghoda and is a great example of what a homegrown label can be. I also love the zero-waste grocery store Adrish for quality organic produce. It’s committed to supporting local farmers and makers while reducing environmental impact – something we all get behind.’
Favourite places near Soho House Mumbai
‘Dakshinayan is a no-fuss, easy place with quick service and excellent food. If there’s more than two of you, definitely order the paper dosa – which is four feet long. Woodside Inn – Bandra is another good spot. It has long been the flag bearer of craft beers in Mumbai and has a wide choice of local brews. This is its third outlet and is a great neighbourhood bar.’
The most ‘Mumbai’ thing to do in Mumbai
‘Taking a walk down Colaba Causeway and getting a Kingfisher draft beer at Cafe Mondegar, with its hand-drawn murals designed by celebrated cartoonist, Mario Miranda.’
To find out more about Soho House Mumbai, click here