Modern Indian kitchens have moved far beyond curry-house shorthand — regional recipes, live-fire tandoors and tasting menus that put spice work at the centre rather than heat.
In Mumbai the Indian list is led by Indian Accent, The Lodhi, New Delhi (formerly at The Manor, New Delhi) in Lodhi Road, New Delhi (Though this is not in Mumbai, it is India's most acclaimed fine dining restaurant and sets the benchmark for Indian modern cuisine, often drawing comparisons and aspirations from Mumbai's top chefs.) (Acclaimed local fine dining, ₹4,500 - ₹8,000 / $55 - $100 per person (approx. for tasting menu) per person). If you want the same cooking for less, The Bombay Canteen at ₹2,500 - ₹4,000 / $30 - $50 per person (approx. for a full meal) is the value pick.
- 1.
Indian Accent, The Lodhi, New Delhi (formerly at The Manor, New Delhi)
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Indian · Lodhi Road, New Delhi (Though this is not in Mumbai, it is India's most acclaimed fine dining restaurant and sets the benchmark for Indian modern cuisine, often drawing comparisons and aspirations from Mumbai's top chefs.) · ₹4,500 - ₹8,000 / $55 - $100 per person (approx. for tasting menu)
Manish Mehrotra
Indian Accent is renowned for its inventive, modern Indian cuisine that playfully reinterprets traditional dishes with global ingredients and techniques. The elegant dining room provides a sophisticated backdrop for a culinary journey that continuously surprises and delights, establishing a new paradigm for Indian gastronomy on the global stage.
Order: Blue Cheese Naan, Daulat Ki Chaat
- 2.
Masque
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Indian, Farm-to-Table · Mahalaxmi · ₹5,000 - ₹8,500 / $60 - $105 per person (approx. for tasting menu)
Prateek Sadhu (Co-founder, though culinary direction now led by Executive Chef)
Masque offers a groundbreaking farm-to-table tasting menu experience, focusing on hyper-seasonal ingredients sourced primarily from its own farm and local producers. The minimalist, industrial-chic space complements the innovative, ingredient-driven cooking that elevates regional Indian flavors through contemporary presentation and meticulous technique, defining a new era of Mumbai fine dining.
Order: 10-course Tasting Menu (changes seasonally)
- 3.
The Bombay Canteen
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Indian, Regional · Lower Parel · ₹2,500 - ₹4,000 / $30 - $50 per person (approx. for a full meal)
Thomas Zacharias (former Culinary Director, now led by Executive Chef)
The Bombay Canteen masterfully reimagines classic Indian comfort food and regional specialties with a contemporary twist. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial bungalow, the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere encourages a convivial dining experience, making it a beloved spot for both inventive cocktails and deliciously familiar yet refined dishes.
Order: Pork Ribs, Eggs Kejriwal
- 4.
Trèsind Mumbai
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Indian, Progressive · Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) · ₹6,000 - ₹9,500 / $75 - $115 per person (approx. for tasting menu)
Himanshu Saini (Group Executive Chef)
Trèsind Mumbai offers a theatrical and innovative take on Indian fine dining, characterized by molecular gastronomy techniques and intricate presentations. The experience is an elaborate journey through a multi-course tasting menu, where traditional flavors are transformed into surprising new forms, engaging all senses in a luxurious and immersive culinary spectacle.
Order: Modernist Chaat Trolley, Deconstructed Black Forest Cake
- 5.
Avartana, ITC Maratha
Acclaimed local fine diningSouthern Indian, Progressive · Sahar, Andheri East · ₹4,000 - ₹7,000 / $50 - $85 per person (approx. for tasting menu)
J. Prasad (Executive Chef)
Avartana, originating from Chennai, brings its unique 'South Indian with a global sensibility' concept to Mumbai. The restaurant offers a meticulously crafted tasting menu that deconstructs and reimagines traditional South Indian dishes with modern techniques and elegant plating. The serene, contemporary ambiance provides a perfect setting for this innovative culinary exploration.
Order: Steamed Snapper, Pepper Lamb
Booking a Indian table in Mumbai
- · For top fine-dining establishments, aim to book at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for weekend dinner reservations. Some popular spots like Masque may open bookings monthly and fill up quickly.
- · Many high-end restaurants now require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for tasting menus, particularly for larger groups. Always confirm their cancellation policy to avoid charges.
- · Consider booking lunch menus at fine-dining restaurants. They often offer a condensed version of the dinner experience at a more accessible price point, providing excellent value without compromising quality.
- · Be mindful of no-show policies; canceling within 24-48 hours may incur charges. Punctuality is also appreciated, as late arrivals can disrupt the kitchen and dining room flow, especially for tasting menus.
And the local dishes in Mumbai
Vada Pav
Mumbai's quintessential street food, a spicy potato fritter (vada) nestled inside a soft bread roll (pav), typically served with various chutneys. It's a quick, affordable, and incredibly satisfying snack found on almost every street corner. Try it from a local vendor near a train station for an authentic experience, like Aram Vada Pav near CST for a consistently good version.
Pav Bhaji
A flavorful mash of mixed vegetables cooked in butter and spices, served with soft, butter-laden pav. It's a hearty and popular dish, perfect for lunch or a late-night snack. The rich, tangy taste and soft texture make it a beloved comfort food. Sardar Pav Bhaji is a famous spot for this, renowned for its generous butter and delicious bhaji.
Bhel Puri
A classic Mumbai chaat, Bhel Puri is a delightful mix of puffed rice, finely chopped onions, tomatoes, potatoes, and various chutneys (tamarind, mint-coriander, garlic). It offers a tantalizing balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and crunchy textures. Enjoy this refreshing street snack, particularly popular along Juhu Beach, where numerous vendors serve it freshly prepared.
Frankie
Mumbai's answer to the wrap or roll, a Frankie consists of a flaky paratha bread filled with a choice of spiced meats (chicken, mutton) or vegetables (paneer, potato), onions, and a tangy sauce. It's a convenient and delicious meal on the go. Tibbs Frankie is a well-known chain that originated this popular fast food item, offering consistent quality.
Other cuisines in Mumbai
Seven days in Mumbai
Pair these Indian tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Mumbai travel guide