Not so French boulangerie
While long queues usually form here for their Christmas plum cake, and other menu favourites, their keema pav deserves equal hype. This historic bakery in Marine Lines serves a Keema Pav with minced meat that is finer than most versions in the city. The garam masala is subtle, letting the rich flavour of the meat truly shine through.
AT Sassanian Boulangerie, Marine View, 1st Marine Street, Dhobi Talao.
COST Rs 150
Keema aur chai
Steps from the Royal Opera House, this cosy spot offers a truly Irani experience. Knick-knacks sit on cupboards, books line the shelves, and the owner Gustad Irani serves up fresh plates himself. Their keema pav recipe changes daily, based on the owner’s mood. You might get a batch loaded with caramelised onions, or a milder version. Pair it with the pudina chai.
AT Cafe De La Paix, Bhatwadi, Girgaon.
COST Rs 250
Served with a side of Yezdi
Famous for the vintage Yezdi motorcycle parked inside, this landmark spot serves a robust, meaty keema cooked with coriander and tomatoes, which gives it a hint of sour, making it a unique bite. Order the keema fry to get a generous topping of crispy potato salli. That extra crunch takes the dish to a whole new level on a rainy afternoon.
AT Ideal Corner, Hornby View Building, 12/F/G, Rustom Sidhwa Marg, near Fort Fire Brigade, Borabazar.
CoST Rs 278
Causeway’s icon
PICS COURTESY/JUNISHA DAMA
While a recent visit from Christopher Nolan, Tom Holland, and Matt Damon has brought fresh buzz to this Colaba staple, the true star remains their legendary keema pav. They serve a unique hara keema. The fresh herbs cut through the heavy spice, offering a vibrant burst of freshness in every single bite.
AT Olympia Coffee House, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Scindia Society, Police Colony, Apollo Bunder, Colaba.
COST Rs 110 (half plate); Rs 220 (full plate)
Manto’s favourite
Located across the Nagpada police station, this legendary restaurant once hosted literary greats like Saadat Hasan Manto. Grab a seat at his preferred table by the window facing the street, and watch the city rush by. Their traditional keema pav is spicy, deeply meaty, and has some dal in the preparation too, which gives the dish a unique flavour. Just keep in mind; it’s available only from 5.30 am to 10.30 am, and between 4 pm and 6 pm.
AT Sarvi, opposite Nagpada police station.
COST Rs 90
