Olympia Coffee House: A Timeless Legacy
Rating: 3.5/5
Located in the heart of Mumbai, Olympia Coffee House has been a culinary institution since 1918. Founded by Syed Mohammed Merab, an Irani businessman, this iconic eatery has been run by the same families for generations.
A Taste of Tradition
On my recent visit, I ordered the Mutton Magaj Gurda Fry and Chicken Seekh Biryani. The dishes did not disappoint. The mutton fry was tender, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, while the biryani was aromatic, with succulent chicken and a delightful balance of spices. Although statutory warning for those Lucknow and Kolkata biryani fans, this Irani biryani is a whole lot different despite having the name biryani, it has a sour and spicy taste which might not relate to the biryani you know or love.
Service and Ambiance
The service was warm and attentive, reflecting the family-run establishment's personal touch. The ambiance, though nostalgic, could benefit from a refresh to attract newer patrons.
Legacy Lives On
Idris Choudhary and Ilyas Saji, sons of the original stakeholders, continue to uphold the Olympia legacy. Their dedication to traditional recipes and quality ingredients ensures an authentic experience.
Recommendation
Must-try dishes: Mutton Magaj Gurda Fry( a piece of utopia served on a plate) and Chicken Seekh Biryani or Mutton Biryani.
Verdict
Olympia Coffee House remains a must-visit for its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and nostalgic charm. Experience the timeless flavors of Mumbai's...
Read moreFirst stop of the day for breakfast was the legendary Olympia Coffee House & Stores, a space operating since 1918. I sat down requesting a menu at a community table, and placed my order of butter bun, with some mutton kheema and pav maska and a bread slice. My order arrived swiftly and wonderfully flavoursome kheema was something that I indulged with the sliced and buttered pav and also the soft bread. The kheema was a fantastic, beautiful meaty flavour with green peas, and a hint of green chillies, it was a flavour bomb, and not too spicy for my liking, in a good way. They do have a spicy keema version, if you prefer one, but all are served with some fresh green chillies, lemon and pepper if you like to add some more spice to your life or the dish. I ordered a coffee, which was decent, but nothing beats a good filter coffee though. The staff were extremely friendly and very courteous, I paid the bill and left and just then I realised that I missed having their signature caramel custard, and mawa cake. so I had to rush back and ask for one, thankfully the custard was available, while the cake wasn't. The caramel custard was nicely bitter on top with a sweet creamy pudding to balance, it was pure decadence, and now I understand why the custard here is legendary, a must try. Olympia comes highly recommended for the fantastic food, the courteous service, and a fair bit...
Read moreOlympia Coffee House, situated in the bustling Colaba area of Mumbai, offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by its simple yet flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere. Renowned for its delicious offerings, the menu features a variety of standout items, including the delectable bhurji pav, the savory keema pav, and the popular anda ghotala. Each dish reflects the establishment's commitment to authentic flavors, showcasing the essence of Mumbai’s street food in a comfortable setting.
The service at Olympia is impressively prompt, ensuring that guests are attended to swiftly and efficiently. The attentive staff contributes to an overall experience that is both enjoyable and seamless.
The rustic, old-world ambience of the coffee house adds to its charm, transporting patrons to a time when such establishments were the heart of social interaction. The vintage decor and cozy seating create an inviting environment that encourages relaxation and conversation.
Furthermore, the prices at Olympia Coffee House are remarkably reasonable, making it accessible for a diverse clientele. The combination of excellent value, delicious offerings such as bun maska, half fry, and various omelette dishes, along with the warm, welcoming atmosphere, solidifies Olympia Coffee House as a must-visit destination for both locals and...
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