Kyani & Co. has occupied its corner spot in Dhobi Talao since 1904, making it one of the last and most iconic Irani cafés in Mumbai. The location, directly opposite the Metro Inox Theatre, is a well-known South Mumbai landmark and part of the city’s official heritage walk. Inside, the space is a study in old-world preservation, from the high ceilings and black Bentwood chairs to the tables covered in traditional red-and-white checkered cloths. Large mirrors and vintage hand-painted advertisements, some from the 1920s, line the walls, and a 120-year-old wooden staircase still leads to an upper deck. When you walk in, you’ll find the classic wooden counters stacked high with large glass jars full of biscuits and cookies.
While it started as a bakery, the menu expanded around the year 2000 to ensure the café’s survival. The original bakery counter is still a major draw for takeaway items like the legendary Mawa Cake, wine biscuits, rum balls, and various puffs. The savory menu now includes a full range of Parsi staples that have become just as famous. Breakfast and lunch crowds come for the Kheema Pav, the Akuri – a Parsi-style scrambled egg dish – and the simple but essential Bun Maska, a soft buttered bun best paired with a cup of hot Irani chai. You can also get a classic Pallonji's Raspberry Soda.
Service is quick and no-nonsense, designed to handle the steady flow of people, especially during the morning rush. It’s a place built for a fast, satisfying meal, not for lingering over a laptop. The one thing to remember is that payment is strictly cash only – cards and digital payments are not accepted.
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