Mumbai — this bustling centre of commerce is well known for being a hectic crush of humanity, however, Bombay’s rich and famous lead a lavish lifestyle in the city — you can too if you know where to look.
Bombay’s beautiful people love a night out, a fine meal and, of course, a luxury hotel as much as the next — if you find yourself in the city it’s best to know where to go and what to do to enjoy a night out like the hippest Mumbaikars in town.
Where to stay?
The first and foremost hotel in Mumbai is The Taj Mahal Palace in Colaba. This grand hotel was opened in 1903 and has been the accommodation for kings, dignitaries and celebrities when they visit the city.
Boasting 285 elegant rooms, the hotel is a landmark and a well-known institution in Bombay’s historic centre. The hotel holds nine of Mumbai’s most acclaimed restaurants which serve dishes from around the world — from Chinese to European to, of course, Indian.
The hotel is around an hour’s drive from the airport and will set up a private car to ferry you to and from Mumbai’s historic centre.
Where to eat?
You wouldn’t be blamed for eating in any of the Taj’s fine restaurants — however, if you want to explore the city why not head north to the Fort neighbourhood to enjoy some of the best dining Mumbai has to offer?
Fort is a sleepy neighbourhood bordering the Colaba historic district and was built by the British Raj’s government in Bombay.
Colonial buildings here are flanked by truly massive figs trees, giving the neighbourhood a more suburban feel than Colaba.
Fort is home to Punjabi Grill, Khal Ghoda. This restaurant — which has locations across India for good reason — serves authentic Northern Indian Punjabi food. The Dum Gosht (Mutton) Biryani is highly recommended.
After dinner, there are numerous laid-back bars in the Fort area.
Nightlife
As far as a night out is concerned — Mumbai does not disappoint. The younger, more affluent crowd is growing in this city and it is reflected in the plethora of clubs and bars springing up all over town.
For a bit of a wild one, why not try Kitty Su? With daily DJ sets and signature cocktails, this North Mumbai institution attracts the clubbing crowd from across the city.
Only open from Wednesday to Saturday and is in The Lalit Mumbai near the airport. Therefore, this club may be best for those transiting through the city.
For something closer to the historic district, XXO is a glamourous club on the 37th and 38th floors of the St. Regis Hotel. It offers uninterrupted views of Mumbai’s striking skyline. The club plays high energy music until the early morning, so there is no rush to get there early.
Located just a short drive from Colaba, this club should be high on the list to experience a true night out in Mumbai.
For those wishing to experience incredible food and a deep culture in luxury, Mumbai will not disappoint. Although rarely associated with high-end jet setting, this city is sure to surprise you — if you know where to look.