Cafe Universal RESTAURANT &BAR — Restaurant in Mumbai

You know what they say about first impression well Cafe Universal really impressed us starting with its cosy ambience where the walls filled with souvenirs from different parts of the globe.

Mustard walls, sculptural windows, doorframes made of iron & chandeliers reflect the Art of popular Europe at the 21st century.

Mughal paintings, Iranian landscapes & Zoroastrian gods & a row of golden Chinese cats waving right at you.

There is no air conditioning, all the windows are open

There is no chance of a reservation here.

Weekends at Universal can be a crowded affair

The café has been around for nearly a century starting back in the days when the dockyard workers would enjoy their daily chai & khari biscuit, to the young & vibrant crowd that has been overwhelmed with an expansive menu

A big thank you to Narayan who was our server & the wonderful owners who made a difference for us. THANK YOU SO MUCH

So what did we order :

▪ O.M.G BURGER (with sunny side up egg) If you're looking for a man vs food moment, this meat-laden OMG burger that has got about 6 layers of well done tender flavoured beef steak layered with cheese in between, lettuce & onions served with a lovely side of French Fries is a task to finish but worth every bite making this one of the greatest burgers ever. This is one of the burgers you have to eat it with a fork & knife, because it's just a gets messy. Truly a tantalising Taste!!

▪STEAK SHASHLIK Shashlik is like a kebab of cubed beef in a spicy Steak is a one of a kind with their Home Made Garlic sauce which is their special sauce that is poured upon the Steak filled up with rice and other stired fried vegetables. The Sizzlers out here is truly filling, the quantity is more here with a quantity suffice for two, not unless you got a great appetite. TRY THIS DELICIOUS SIZZLER

▪PEPPER STEAK WITH CHEESE This Delicious Pepper steak is a stir-fried dish consisting of sliced beef steak cooked with sliced green or red bell peppers & other seasonings such as soy sauce & ginger topped with their HOME MADE BARBEQUE SAUCE... Truly a dish for every steak sizzler fan.. The Sizzler quantity is more here where in two can have it, not unless you are a a good eater... A STEAK SIZZLER Worth it all.. Yummy!!

Over all everything was perfect from the Hospitality to the food was truly worth everything & cant wait to come back with the...

I was thoroughly impressed by the food here—so much so that I can’t help but wonder if something magical is happening in the kitchen. Every dish was a perfect five out of five, a rarity for me to say. The Parsi-style Bombil Fry was exquisite, with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Unlike the flattened, papad-like versions often found in many Malwani restaurants, this one showcased the fish’s delightful gelatinous texture, making it truly special.

The beer was served in ice-cold glasses—a lovely touch—and was, as expected, great. What surprised me was the Chicken 65, enhanced by an abundance of fragrant curry leaves in the tadka. It was fabulous and fun! The chicken was succulent and perfectly flavored, a quality I often find lacking in many places that attempt this complex dish.

The chili cheese toast was delightful, boasting a bit of char on top. As for the vegetarian sizzler my friend ordered with pepper sauce, it was beyond exquisite—especially coming from someone who rarely opts for vegetarian dishes. We all loved its flavor.

We were also impressed with the Chicken Schezwan Fried Rice, which felt homey and paired beautifully with the dry buffalo chili, making for a satisfying meal. I thought the keema could use a little improvement, but it seemed to please everyone else at the table.

I can definitely see myself returning for a pint and some beer snacks, especially given the immaculate service right in the heart of Mumbai. This place is brimming with nostalgia, character, and vibe—qualities hard to find in many establishments today. Despite it being a Sunday evening, we easily found a table and were well taken care of by the staff, particularly the owner & boss of the place - Rustam, who was enthusiastic and eager to share his suggestions when asked.

Rustam deserves every ounce of praise and compliments for running such a tight ship! His keen eye for quality control, consistent flavor, and generous portions is truly remarkable.

It’s a testament to the charm of classic establishments—they often turn out to be the best! In a world of fleeting trends, it’s refreshing to see a place that values tradition and excellence, keeping the spirit of...

Cafe Universal in South Mumbai is a legendary establishment, a throwback to a bygone era, and a beloved fixture in the city's culinary landscape. It's more than just a cafe; it's an experience. Here's a comprehensive review:

Ambiance and Decor: Cafe Universal exudes an old-world charm, with its vintage decor, wooden furniture, and dimly lit interior. The atmosphere is nostalgic, transporting patrons to a time when Irani cafes were the heart of Mumbai's social life. It's a place where time seems to stand still, offering a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The cafe has a very unique, and very historic feeling to it.

Food and Menu: Cafe Universal is renowned for its hearty and affordable Parsi and Continental fare. Popular dishes include their kheema pav, pulao, and various omelets. Do not miss the Baked Yoghurt & Caramel Custard 🍮. The food is consistently good, offering comfort and satisfaction. They are known for their very high quality beverages. The menu has a wide range of options, and is very affordable.

Service and Clientele: The service is efficient and friendly, though it can get busy during peak hours. The clientele is diverse, ranging from locals who have been frequenting the cafe for decades to tourists seeking an authentic Mumbai experience. It's a place where conversations flow freely, and a sense of community prevails. The staff is very friendly, and helpful.

Overall Experience: Cafe Universal is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of old Mumbai. The combination of nostalgic ambiance, delicious food, and affordable prices makes it a timeless gem. It's a place where memories are made, and traditions are preserved. It is a very unique location, that provides a...