The highly anticipated Bandra Fair has finally started today, September 14, and will continue till September 21, next Sunday. While the fair usually happens earlier in the month, the excitement for this time among most devotees and Mumbaikars has been palpable as it has become an annual ritual for most people in Mumbai.
The beauty of the fair that takes place around Mount Mary’s Basilica is that it has something for everybody. While devotees can buy religious items and place them as offerings, the Bandra Fair also has games and performances for all ages. However, the most exciting part of the fair is the many different kinds of food stalls that start all the way from the steps and go right out offering different kinds of treats. They not only sell your black chana (kala chana) but also kadio bodios, Kerala halwa, and even choris pao along with petha, pickles, and other digestives.
Inspired by these very food traditions and that of the local East Indian and Goan community, three city-based restaurants and home kitchens have put together their festive menus for people in the city. While some may be able to go to the Fair, others may not, but there is no need to feel left out because you can simply enjoy these treats. For those who are visiting the city during this time of the year, these menus are a reflection of the local favourites with mouthwatering additions that will keep you wanting more.
Festive delicacies
Bandra-based duo Marian Dcosta and Ashwin Nair, who run their home kitchen ‘Aiyo Patrao’ have put together ‘A Bandra Feast special’ menu. It includes beef tongue roast, pao com choris, chicken xacuti, prawn pulao, pork sorpotel, and sannas. While the catch is that they are already sold out for September 14 through pre-orders, you can always reach out to them for local delicacies. Since you’re visiting Bandra Fair, hope your prayers are answered and they are able to dish out delicacies for you during this week.
Call: 84509 12371
East Indian feast
Not too far away from Mount Mary’s Basilica, chef Freny Fernandes is hosting a ‘Sunday Feast’ at Freny’s in Bandra on September 14 for lunch and dinner. While you may not be in time for the former, there is always time for the latter. Diners will get to indulge in an vegetarian and non-vegetarian East Indian spread that also includes cocktails, and desserts like pastel de nata.
When: September 14
Time: 7 pm onwards
Call: 070390 12123 or message them on @frenysbandra on Instagram
A delicious spread
Even Incendiary Kitchen in Bandra by duo Joshua Pereira and Larissa Valladares are cooking up some specials this weekend. The menu includes liver pate with crackers, grilled chicken with plum sauce, Asian pork ribs and more but not without sannas and fugias. If you are looking to celebrate the feast today or during the week, you can get in touch with them for some innovative specials.
When: September 14
Call: 096196 33881
