Madras in Mumbai

Fragrance of steaming filter coffee, quaint charm of brick clad walls, tinkling brass bells, mellifluous Carnatic music, exquisite vintage wooden door, flown in from Chennai, sums up to an intriguing welcome into the Bandra eatery, Madras Diaries, a cafe with a southern twist.

The cafe is divided into an interior, air conditioned, dining space and a casual alfresco area, divided by dainty terracotta-finish screen. The interior dining with pine wood tables, vibrantly upholstered furniture, set against raw backdrop of brick patterned wall, and muted grey walls celebrate an earthy vibe with vibrant hues. The eating experience is high on colour and energy complemented by keen detailing in every nook and corner with assortment of fine craft, customized walls and furniture.

Tailored, modern and elegant with dashes of rough, sleek and bold Madras Diaries has been conceived brilliantly and crafted by Architect Sumessh Menon. It is a newly opened, purely vegetarian, venture by Neeti Goel and Farhan Azmi. With a special mention to the charming menu design, lip-smacking Rassam shots, Pesarattu made of green Moong Dal, Malabari Parotta and red rice Appam, I found it indeed to be a charming experience, raw and earthy, with all things south Indian and fun. I am so looking forward to another visit to try out the special lunch menu and the filter coffee that still lingers on my taste buds. A definite thumbs up to this quaint, chirpy, southern cafe.