Here’s the definitive guide to the best Konkani cuisine in town

Jai Hind Lunch Home
Lower Parel
This chain should be a must-stop on your Konkani cooking tour of Mumbai. Their Parel branch is our personal pick (Dadar and Bandra are other two) even though it’s priced slightly higher. Serving traditional Maharashtrian, coastal Malwani and Mangalorean fare, Jai Hind serves arguably the best Malwani food in town. Pick from their Bharla Bombil, Patra ni Machhi or Prawns Adijani. “Their sol-kadi is to die for but purists may have an issue with it as sol-kadi varies in thickness and concentration of the Kokum in coconut milk,” says Usha Prabhakar, an advertising professional who has lunches here everyday. They also have some of the most tender neer dosas in town. Accompany these with their delectable Prawn Ajadina, a typical Mangalore preparation, with loads of curry leaves. Bombil and Surmai fry are a staple at their Bandra outlet as are the thalis although vindaloo is not one of their strengths.

Anant Aashram Khotachiwadi, Girgaon
If it’s authentic Gomantak you’re looking for, Anant Aashram it is. Propreitor Prabhu Kapde’s Goan father started the place in 1936 to cater to working -class traders in the surrounding Charni Road area. Cooked on wood and coal fire, the food is delicious, simple and served generously. Pick from their Kombdi Mutton Vati, Bajrachi Aamti Vati, Masala Kulrya Vati, Masala Kolambi all at a price of Rs 50. “We may close down in May for a month. I’m not sure if we will open after that. The costs of running this place are hard to bear,” reveals Kapde.

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