2 weeks Ago By Divya Balakrishnan
There’s something about the cobbled lanes of South Mumbai that turns me into a doe-eyed romantic. One finds oneself caught in the past, lingering in the details—an old nameplate, a sun-faded archway, the way light warms the lanes of brown-stoned buildings. Ballard Estate is the pinnacle of this feeling—seclusive, cinematic , almost as though you’ve stepped into a Humphrey Bogart film.
On a walking tour of the city, I recently learned that Ballard Estate was built on reclaimed land, designed to extend the city’s famous port. For many, this was their first glimpse of Bombay, their first transaction, their first step into what lay ahead. That weight, the history, still clings to its structures.
Nestled within these century-old buildings, the neighborhood sees a convergence of fashion, art , and dining , with new addresses popping up often. There is something magical about standing inside one of these spaces, running your hand over a fabric woven by a craftsman miles away, while overhead, a ceiling with its original crown moulding watches in silence. Ahead, we curate a list of everything you should visit when planning an evening sojourn in Ballard Estate, Mumbai.
Tilfi A love letter to Banaras , Tilfi takes centuries-old textile traditions and adapts them for the modern wardrobe. Famous for their Banarasi handloom saris, they have an iconic sari with the landscape of ghats woven in gold zari. Their saris are timeless, and the pieces—whether a structured silk jacket or a metallic brocade woven blouse—are heirlooms in the making.
Akaaro Textile-first and experimental, Akaaro by Gaurav Jai Gupta reinvents Indian handloom with urban minimalism. Expect deconstructed silhouettes, metallic weaves , and a design language that feels both artisanal and architectural. Tarun Tahiliani A master of Indian drapery, Tarun Tahiliani seamlessly blends structure with fluidity.
His creations—whether a paneled sherwani or a corset-draped sari gown—bridge India’s deep-rooted textile heritage with the precision of couture tailoring. A destination not to be missed for the discerning bride curating her trousseau. The House of Rose No trip to Ballard is complete without a wrist check, and The House of Rose is one to watch for luxury watches and fine jewellery .
Tucked into the well-dressed district, the showroom houses both in-house designs for their fine jewellery, as well as coveted brands like Chopard. Whether you seek the understated elegance of a Patek Philippe timepiece or the bold statement of an Audemars Piguet, this space houses it all. Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke For those who believe fashion is art (and they’re absolutely right), hop on to Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke.
This contemporary art gallery offers a curated journey into the world of creative expression. Located in the heart of Ballard Estate, the gallery presents an experience where art , design, and refined taste come together seamlessly, elevating both the art of collecting and the act of discovery. Fun fact: They also hosted Vogue India's first-ever Forces of Fashion exhibition in 2024.
The Clearing House After hours of retail indulgence, find refuge at The Clearing House. For thoughtfully plated, European-inspired cuisine , this restaurant offers an inviting yet sophisticated experience. The menu blends classic European techniques with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Bombay Coffee House A tribute to Bombay’s café heritage, Bombay Coffee House evokes the charm of the city’s historic coffeehouses. With its warm, welcoming ambiance and walls covered in old photos of the city, it’s the perfect place to savour a cup of coffee while soaking in the nostalgia of old Bombay. Galerie Isa Galerie Isa offers a sharp selection of contemporary artists from India and beyond.
Founded by Ashwin Thandani, the gallery occupies a prominent space in the iconic Kamani Chambers in the Art Deco district of Ballard Estate. Showcasing a compelling range of Indian, international, and diaspora artists, Galerie Isa provides a platform for innovative and boundary-pushing works that redefine the contemporary art landscape. Native Bombay Native Bombay is a refined take on local flavours, offering an elevated culinary experience that celebrates the rich diversity of the city’s heritage.
With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and a modern approach to traditional recipes, the restaurant captures the essence of Bombay’s vibrant food culture. The Banyan Tree Café An earthy and serene cafe built under the shade of a stunning old banyan tree, The Banyan Tree Café offers an atmosphere perfect for reflection or conversation. Its curated menu complements the ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a moment of tranquillity in the heart of the Ballard Estate.
Also read: A new bar in Bandra serves you the daaru-chakna you love—but with a twist This new store at Fort’s iconic Ismail Building elevates the offline shopping experience The new Oberoi Residential Suites in Mumbai are tailor-made for those who love the sea.
