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The Haji Ali Juice Centre was established in the 1960s, during a time when Mumbai was still finding its identity as a modern metropolis. What began as a small, roadside juice stall quickly grew in popularity due to its fresh ingredients, innovative combinations, and prime location. Over the years, the juice centre has expanded its menu and modernised its operations, but it has never lost touch with its roots. The founders and subsequent generations who have run the place have maintained the same commitment to quality and attention to patrons that made the juice centre famous in the first place.
Video Credit: Rachit Rawal VLogs
In a city as fast-paced and ever-changing as Mumbai, the Haji Ali Juice Centre stands as a symbol of continuity and tradition. It was opened keeping in mind the devotees who vited the Haji Ali Dargah and the Mahalaxmi temple. This was before the time that the world was counting their steps and their calories.
Photo Credit: Haji Ali Juice Centre/ Website
What Makes Haji Ali Juice Centre Special?
Over the years, it has remained true to its original mission of providing high-quality, fresh, and delicious food and beverages to its customers, even as the world around it has evolved. This consistency has earned the juice centre a loyal following that spans generations. Families have been coming here for years, and it’s not uncommon to see parents who first visited as children now bringing their own kids to enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed juice or a rich, creamy milkshake.
The juice centre’s location also adds to its iconic status. Situated near the Haji Ali Dargah, it attracts a diverse crowd, from pilgrims and tourists to locals and office-goers. The view from the juice centre, with the Arabian Sea on one side and the bustling city on the other, makes for a picturesque setting. In 1984 the owner, Fareed Abdul Latif Noorani also set up Café Noorani across the road.
Earlier, patrons would just park their cars a little ahead of Haji Ali Juice Centre, especially at night and one could get served and eat in the car or have a little bonnet picnic. With the massive construction going on in the city, this has now become tough. The spot still remains popular with night birds.
Photo Credit: Haji Ali Juice Centre/Website
What To Order At Haji Ali Juice Centre
What makes Haji Ali Juice Centre truly special is its extensive menu that caters to a wide array of tastes and preferences. While its name suggests a focus on juices, the menu goes far beyond just beverages. Of course, the fresh fruit juices are the stars of the show, made from the freshest seasonal fruits available. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic orange juice, a refreshing watermelon juice, or something more exotic such as kiwi, passion fruit, avocado, chikoo or custard apple, the Haji Ali Juice Centre delivers with the perfect blend of sweetness and freshness.
The centre also offers a variety of milkshakes and smoothies, each made to order. Favourites include the mango milkshake, which is thick, creamy, and full of the rich flavour of Alphonso mangoes, and the strawberry milkshake, made with real strawberries that give it a vibrant, fruity taste. For those looking for a more indulgent treat, the chocolate milkshake, made with premium chocolate and rich dairy, is a decadent choice.
But the offerings don’t stop at drinks. Haji Ali Juice Centre has also become known for its range of snacks and light meals. Their sandwiches, particularly the club sandwich, are popular among patrons who want something more substantial to go with their drinks. These sandwiches are made with fresh bread, crisp vegetables, and a variety of fillings that cater to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Another highlight is their range of fruit creams, where fresh fruit is mixed with rich cream, creating a dessert that is both refreshing and satisfying. The Sitaphal (custard apple) cream is a particular favourite, offering a sweet, creamy dessert that is uniquely Indian.
Photo Credit: Haji Ali Juice Centre / Instagram
Price For Two At Haji Ali Juice Centre
The cost for two people at Haji Ali Juice Centre typically ranges between ₹400 to ₹600, depending on what you order. This can vary slightly based on the choice of juices, milkshakes, snacks, and desserts, but overall, it remains an affordable option for enjoying fresh and delicious treats in Mumbai.
Staying Relevant
Despite its deep roots in tradition, Haji Ali Juice Centre has not been left behind in the modern world. The juice centre has embraced changes in consumer habits, including offering healthier options, expanding its menu to include low-sugar and dairy-free choices, and ensuring that the quality of ingredients is always top-notch. This adaptability has allowed the juice centre to remain relevant in a city that is constantly evolving.
Photo Credit: Haji Ali Juice Centre/ Website
Moreover, Haji Ali Juice Centre has gained recognition beyond just being a local favourite. It is now featured in travel guides and blogs, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Mumbai. Celebrities, politicians, and tourists alike have been spotted enjoying the offerings here, adding to its allure and making it a part of the cultural fabric of the city.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a stop at Haji Ali Juice Centre offers a taste of Mumbai’s rich culinary heritage, served with a side of nostalgia and a view that’s hard to beat.
