Onam, a vibrant and celebrated harvest festival from the southern state of Kerala, is an annual extravaganza that exudes cultural richness, vibrant traditions, and a mouthwatering feast known as "Sadya." This festive occasion, spanning ten joyous days, brings together families, friends, and communities to honour the mythical King Mahabali and embrace the spirit of togetherness and abundance.
While Onam is deeply rooted in Kerala's cultural tapestry, its influence and charm have transcended geographical boundaries. Even in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, the essence of Onam can be experienced and savoured through the delectable spread of an authentic Kerala Sadya.
Despite being miles away from Kerala's lush landscapes, Mumbaikars and visitors alike can embark on a culinary journey that captures the soul of this festive celebration. Renowned restaurants and delivery kitchens in Mumbai have skillfully crafted Sadya experiences that mirror the traditional feast. From aromatic curries to crispy banana chips, from tangy pachadis to sweet payasam, the array of flavours and textures authentically replicate the diverse components of a classic Sadya.
Here are 7 places where you can indulge in a Sadya spread in Mumbai:
1. Bombay Canteen, Lower Parel
Embark on an artistic and culinary journey at The Bombay Canteen's innovative Onam event. Experience a reimagined Sadhya curated with AI magic. Renowned chefs Manu Chandra and Hussain Shahzad present imaginative dishes like Banana & Kappa Crackling. Historian Manu Pillai unveils hidden Onam histories, adding depth to the celebration through AI interpretations of Raja Ravi Verma’s iconic art.
Cost: ₹8,850/- onwards (per person)
Date: August 29, 2023, 7 pm – 10 pm
Address: Unit-1, Process House, S.B. Road, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel, Mumbai
2. Kebab Korner, InterContinental Marine Drive
Get ready for Onam, the vibrant Malayali harvest festival! Join the festivities at Kebab Korner, InterContinental Marine Drive, Mumbai's beloved eatery. Delight in the grand Onam Sadhya—a thali-style, multi-course feast with 25+ delectable dishes. Experience the essence of Kerala through Inji Curry, Mango Curry, Parripu Curry, and more. From pickles to sweets, savor the traditional flavors of Onam!
Cost: ₹1600+ taxes per person
Date: 20th - 31st August, 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Address: Kebab Korner, InterContinental Marine Drive, Level 1, 135 Marine Drive, Churchgate, Mumbai.
3. Just Kerala, Chakala
Celebrate Onam with flair at Just Kerala, Chakala. Indulge in their exquisite Onam spread boasting 27 delightful items. Dive into pachadis, rasam, thoran, and payasam. Elevate your experience by adding chicken, mutton, or prawn delights to your plate. An Onam celebration to relish!
Cost: ₹1,200/- per person
Date: August 29, 2023, 10 am – 12 am
Address: Hotel Samraj Building, Second Floor, Chakala Rd, Parshiwada, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099
4. Nair On Fire, Bandra West
Experience finger-licking joy with Nair On Fire's unsadya. This delivery kitchen offers a mix of traditional and superfood-infused dishes. From nellicka and cucumber pachadi to chicken perattu, their menu is a delight. Revel in a boxed meal served on a banana leaf—a blend of tradition and innovation.
Cost: ₹1,795
Date: Sun, August 20, Sat, August 26, Sun, August 27, and Tuesday, August 29 (various time slots)
Address: Peter Apartment, Rebello Rd, Mount Mary, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
(To book, call: + 91 93240 59522 /Online: thrivenow.in)
5. South Of Vindhyas, Vile Parle East
Experience the essence of Kerala with the 'Adipoli Onam Sadhya' at South of Vindhyas in The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai. Masterchef Bala presents a grand buffet of 56 dishes, served on banana leaves, capturing the spirit of Onam. Immerse in rich traditions amidst Kerala-inspired decor, fostering unity and cherished memories in a community dining ambience.
Cost: ₹2,100/-
Date: August 25 – 30, 12.30 – 4 pm and 7 -11 pm
Address: 70C, Nehru Road, Adjacent to Domestic Airport, Vile Parle East, Western Suburbs, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099
6. Delux Kerala Restaurant, Fort
Hotel Delux offers one of the best Sadhyas in Mumbai and is well worth the visit for the simple but delicious fare. Indulge in a variety of savoury treats like banana chips, jaggery-coated dried banana, and more. The thali, traditionally served on a banana leaf, offers unlimited dishes for just Rs.200 per person. Don't miss the Pachadi and Malabar Parotta delights.
Cost: ₹300 per person
Timings: 07:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Address: No.10-A, Pitha St, behind Saraswati temple, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
7. Dakshin Culture Curry, Matunga West
Discover Kerala's essence at Dakshin Culture Curry in Mahim. Delight in the Sadya Thali, featuring authentic dishes like Sambar, Pachadi, Paruppu, and more. Celebrate Onam with doorstep delivery of Veg and Non-Veg Sadya Thalis. They're taking pre-orders, so you can book 24 hours in advance for a convenient culinary experience.
Cost: ₹525 for Veg, ₹595 Rupees for Non-Veg
Timings: 12pm–12:30am
Address: Takandas Kataria Marg, Near Hinduja Hospital, City Light, Matunga West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400016
8. Kerala Cafe, Thane, Chembur, Vasai
They pride themselves on serving more than just great food but an entire cultural experience here at Kerala Cafe. This year they've curated 2 versions of the traditional Onam feast to enjoy both for dine-in and takeaway. Drop in at one of their multiple outlets or book online for a complete feast.
Cost: Dine In - ₹600 Takeaway (serves 2) - ₹800
Date: 25th - 28th - Mini Onasadhya - 18 items
Cost: Dine In - ₹890 Takeaway (serves 2) - ₹1200
Date: 27th 30th - Full Sadhya - 26 items
9. Fifty-Five East, Santacruz East
The Grand Hyatt has partnered with Mumbai-based Keralite chef, Marina Balakrishnan to bring you a delicious vegetarian Onam sadhya. Based on Ayurvedic principles, to balance the six rasas, Balakrishnan has curated a 30+ course menu using fresh produce and heritage techniques to experience the Onam magic. The event will also be accompanied by live Kathakali performances for an immersive meal.
Cost: ₹3700 per person
Date: Sunday, 27 August 2023 | 12:30 PM onwards
Address: Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel and Residences Bandra Kurla Complex Vicinity, Off, Western Express Hwy, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400055