An iconic Irani cafe established in 1904, Kyani and Co. is as legendary as it can get in the bustling Dhobi Talao in Marina Lanes, Mumbai. With a huge expectation I headed here for a quick breakfast number 1 on day 5 of my solo trip to Mumbai. Service was almost non-existent as I had to vye hard for the attention of the staff to serve me a bun maska and the famous kyani tea. Once ordered I also asked for a parsi omelette along with some pav and bread combo for my eggs and a special mawa cake. My ask was taken in as a surprise and the eyeballs of the service staff rolled as I also asked for a mutton puff. After a quick wait my order(s) started arriving as the soft bun maska was my first to attack while dipping it in the kyani tea which was sweet, but I managed to balance it with the bun maska, which was super soft and absorbed the dip well. The omelette was a kind of a let down, as it was just a flat masala omelette that did not look very appetizing, not sure if that is what is expected out of a parsi version. I managed to eat it with the pav and the bread as I moved my attention to the just arrived mutton puff. It was more like a nice flaky cup cake like a savoury sealed tart, flaky and wonderfully well made with just right mutton complimenting the puff pastry, definitely a must try. Having not managed to try the pallonji's parsi soda so far in the trip, I ordered a ginger flavour in a mini pet bottle to carry. It had a sharp strong ginger flavour and was definitely refreshing. I asked for the bill which came swiftly as I paid in cash, as one of the strict rules at the establishment. Overall the food was ok, but the service was cold, which was kind of strange as anywhere in Mumbai I have been earlier and in this trip, service staff are friendly and at least have a smile if not chatty. Not that I am expecting them to be chatty, or even friendly, a bit of politeness is something that is basic, which in my experience was missing here in Kyani and Co. Coming to the other strict rules posing as a firm request, about sharing tables, paying your bill in cash, and before heading to the adjoined store to buy their baked goods, and about place your order together and not separately, and no charging of mobiles and laptops at the place, seemed very unfriendly and strange for an establishment in the hospitality business. I paid the bill before heading to the store as per the firm request, to buy some of the cookies that they are famous for and the staff there too seemed very impolite. I picked up a bunch of varied cookies which travelled well, though got very crumbly in transit, but friends and family enjoyed it thoroughly. Definitely coming back here for the cookie takeaway, maybe not for a...
Read moreAm feeling 101% nostalgic today in a more than a century old Cafe. As if seeing Mumbai, almost 120 years before. I have visited History on this Sunday 😇 Perfect destination on Children's Day 👍 Childhood, growing-up memories of many generations of Mumbaikars.
Khyani & Co. Jer Mahal Estate, Opposite Metro Inox theatre, Marine Lines, Mumbai Maharashtra
Founded in 1904 by Mr Khodram. The oldest Cafe of Mumbai.
Mumbai is the Home of many cultures. Iranian Zoroastrian culture is one of the founding spirits of Bombay. During 19th and 20th century many Iranians settled in this city.
Khyani & Co started as a Bakery and continued until 1995. Later on the Iranian Cafe has started in the same premises. Freshly baked products are still now available.
The Interiors are telling stories of that era. Am glad, that they are maintaining it the same way The oldest Iranian Cafe The charm of Iranian Cafe is visible in every nook and corner.
Many vintage photographs of #BritishMumbai Yes, this place was very popular among Britishers also.
They have the first hand-painted advertisement of fresh baked Christmas cake from the 1920s. The way to upper deck has old-fashioned wooden stairway built over 120 years ago. Vintage tables, rustic chairs. Menu cards are pasted on tables. Best time to visit during breakfast and lunch. We had a happy delicious Iranian lunch today. All my favourite #Parsee delicacies.. Served on table fast, hot food.
Our Sunday lunch in the oldest Cafe of Mumbai -
Fresh cool watermelon juice with chunks of watermelon
Mutton Keema Pav - Parsee speciality. Served hot, with fresh pav
Akuri with pav maska - One of the most popular dish of Parsee cuisine..
Chicken Chesse omlette - I had it first time. Hot and soft omlette prepared with shredded chicken, onion and green chillies. With cheese on top
The fresh desserts are the specialities- 5) Special Mawa cake - Soft fresh mawa cake with grated nutmeg
Rose jelly - Served cold. Not too much sweet, but perfect for me
Cherry custard - Cold vanilla custard with a glazed cherry on top
Matka Rabdi - This is one of best Rabdi. Pure thick with layers. Today's delicious lunch is a great treat for mind soul and palate. Bit warm inside. Restaurant use only paper plates to serve food. Have to buy water and drink straight...
5/5 Stars
A Legendary Gem in Marine Lines!
I recently visited Kyani and Co Iranian Cafe in Mumbai's Marine Lines, and I'm still reeling from the incredible experience! This humble cafe has been serving up authentic Iranian and Parsi cuisine for decades, and it's a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
Ambience: 4/5 The moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era. The rustic decor, vintage wooden tables, and charming Parsi-style architecture will make you feel like you're in a different era. It's cozy, intimate, and utterly charming.
Food: 5/5 The real star of the show is, of course, the food! Kyani and Co's menu is a masterclass in Iranian and Parsi cuisine. Every dish we ordered was a revelation - the Berry Pulao, Dhansak, Sali Boti, and Akuri were all standouts. The flavors are bold, rich, and expertly balanced. The portions are generous, and the prices are ridiculously reasonable.
Service: 4/5 The staff is warm, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They're happy to help you navigate the options and make recommendations. While the service can be a bit slow during peak hours, it's well worth the wait.
Value for Money: 5/5 Kyani and Co is an absolute steal! The quality of the food, the generous portions, and the affordable prices make it an unbeatable value.
Highlights:
Authentic Iranian and Parsi cuisine Cozy, rustic ambience Exceptional food quality and presentation Generous portions and affordable prices Warm and friendly service
Tips:
Get there early to avoid the crowds Try the signature dishes like Berry Pulao and Dhansak Don't miss the Akuri for breakfast!
In a nutshell: Kyani and Co Iranian Cafe is a Marine Lines institution that will transport you to a different era with its charm, warmth, and incredible food. Don't miss out on this...
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