Dandelion Loves Colaba
Bombay has always been our home and we can’t imagine living anywhere else. There is something about being close to the sea, amidst unbearable chaos and astounding beauty all at the same time that keeps bringing us back to this city. No matter how long we choose to holiday or in what corner of the world, it is always Bombay that has our heart. Saying ‘Bombay’ is a broad, umbrella statement because within this metropolis are hundreds of neighbourhoods and localities that all exude their own, unique charm. Bandra has its laid-back attitude and Portuguese churches, Ballard Estate it’s century old edifices and quiet, tree-lined streets, and Marine Drive, imperious and petulant, a guardian over the Arabian Sea. It’s hard to pick a favourite because there are so many sections of this city that remain close to our heart however, we have fallen in love. Colaba which was named Colio by the British and then renamed Colaba after Kolis, the original inhabitants of the area, was actually made up of two small islands. When the islands were connected, Colaba Causeway was built and Colaba became a commercial hub.
Colaba is home to icons of Mumbai like the Gateway of India, the art deco style Regal Theatre and cafes like Leopolds and Café Mondegar and also the Taj Mahal Hotel. We’ve been spending a lot more time in Colaba and wanted to share some of our favourite spots here.
Le 15 Café- Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, an indulgent treat, a coffee with a friend or just a corner to curl up with a book, this is it. Launched by arguably, India’s most famous pastry chef, Pooja Dhingra, Le 15 Café is an extension of her well known patisseries. This French style café features lots of natural light, good vibes and a really delicious menu.
Clove- One of Colaba’s newest entrants, Clove sits in a leafy by lane in a grand, old art deco mansion. The first thing that impresses us as we walk into the space is how familiar it feels, almost like coming home. The concept store stocks a great range of products that make it our number one pick when trying to buy someone a gift. They have Dandelion Pyjamas, swimwear, home furnishings, linens, children’s wear and tons more!
The Table- One can’t talk about Colaba without mentioning Mumbai’s most well-known restaurant, The Table. When Gauri Devidayal and her husband Jay set the restaurant up almost a decade ago, we don’t believe they had any idea for the waves they would be creating. A San Francisco style restaurant, The Table is where you go for high-quality European fare, a glass of wine and good conversation.
Gem Palace at Le Mill- Le Mill is one of those boutiques that will steal your heart from the moment you step in. Beautifully minimal and featuring some of the world’s most celebrated brands, from Alexander McQueen to Stella McCartney to Bodice to of course, Dandelion Pyjamas, Le Mill is the perfect shopping destination. Within the walls of this fashionable space sits The Gem Palace’s only Mumbai outlet. Founded in 1852, the brand has been in the Kasliwal family ever since. One of India’s iconic jewellers, you will be besotted with the craftsmanship and quality of jewels on display here.
