A cultural and design hotspot, this Mumbai neighbourhood hosts the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival every February, which draws many locals and tourists
1. Try on traditional Indian haute couture at Sabyasachi
The designer boutique’s dimly lit rooms, decked out in chandeliers, carpets and vintage furniture, are reminiscent of a royal palace. Amid this opulence, try on celebrated fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s richly embroidered saree and skirt sets (below), shoes and jewellery. His creations have been shown at events such as London Fashion Week.
2. Savour mouth-watering desserts at La Folie Patisserie
Indulge your sweet tooth at this tiny dessert bar helmed by chef Sanjana Patel, who was crowned Pastry Queen of India after winning a national championship for female pastry chefs. Try beautifully plated treats (below) like Rouge Velour (red velvet cake) or Pabana – passionfruit and mango cake with a light coconut mousse.
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3. Admire modern art by local artists at Jehangir Art Gallery
Housed near the city’s old fort, this expansive space boasts four exhibition halls displaying contemporary art (below) by local and international artists. Don’t miss the street painters who sell their works on the pavement outside the gallery at attractive prices.
4. Pick up colourful souvenirs from Chumbak
From bags and sandals embellished with vibrant tropical prints, to cushion covers bearing India-inspired comic panels, this store is stocked with quirky, locally designed products. Its intricate prints (below) depicting city life in Mumbai would make a fun addition to any living room.
5. See intricate architecture and artefacts at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Visit museum Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. This Indo-Saracenic building displays ancient items excavated from the Indus valley, Buddhist sculptures (above), and weaponry.
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6. Savour vegetarian cuisine at The Pantry
This whitewashed cafe with vintage decor is popular for its salads (below) and all-day breakfasts such as homemade granola and vegan tofu scramble. Their extensive menu also features artisanal sandwiches, pies and quiches as well as desserts like vegan beetroot cake.
7. Shop for hip fashion and accessories at Nicobar
A youthful label from the founders of homeware store Good Earth, Nicobar offers relaxed summer wear in minimalistic lines and muted colour palettes. They also stock elegant home accessories, crockery and linen cushion covers with tropical prints.
– TEXT BY KALPANA SUNDER
PHOTOS: INMAGINE, NICOBAR, THE PANTRY, CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ VASTU SANGRAHALAYA, CHUMBAK, LA FOLIE PATISSERIE, SUPPLIED
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
