Mumbai boasts of a diverse culinary and hospitality landscape that also makes it one of the best in the country. A new global recognition is the latest reason for Mumbaikars to celebrate this very spirit as The Taj Mahal Palace has appeared on ‘The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025’ inaugural list.
The celebrated heritage five-star property at Apollo Bander in Colaba has appeared at number 38 on the list, becoming the only Indian hotel in the top 50. While Rosewood Hong Kong has been voted as the ‘World’s Best Hotel’ at number one, and thus ‘The Best Hotel in Asia’, the top 50 closes with Mandapa in Bali.
For the uninitiated, the hotel situated in South Mumbai near the Gateway of India, was commissioned by Indian entrepreneur and philanthropist Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata in December 1903. Built in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the landmark is also one of the major tourist attractions in the city and has even appeared in many Indian films because of its sheer beauty and the fact that it overlooks the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. The property celebrated 120 years in 2023, marking a major milestone not only for Mumbai but also for the country, as it sees many visitors from all over India and the world.
Interestingly, there are three other India properties that make it to the extended list of the best hotels in the world, and all of them are from Rajasthan. While SUJÁN Jawai appears at number 91, The Johri in Jaipur appears at number 93, Amanbagh in Ajabgarh, closes the top 100 list. While the former is set amid a wildlife experience, the second is a boutique hotel that was opened in 2020 by Siddharth Kasliwal and Abhishek Honawar in a 19th century haveli (mansion) in the popular Johari Bazaar. The latter is also five-star luxury hotel situated at the foot of the Aravalli Hills.
With that being said, earlier this year, Mumbai`s Masque was declared `The Best Restaurant in India` 2025. The restaurant also appeared at number 19 on `Asia`s 50 Best Restaurants 2025`.
With every passing day, the Indian food and hospitality is evolving and these recognitions showcase the journey of these experiences that are not only limited to the Mumbai, but are now all across the country.
