Fizzy sodas to keep you afloat

Want a sip of Blue Star? Drop by at Matunga's modest Gala Soda Centre to try a variety of thirst quenchers, including Ginger and Rose soda

The mere mention of Gala Soda Centre is enough to bring smiles to the faces of people in Matunga, but it wasn't until we spotted a group of youngsters with colourful drinks in their hands that we figured we were close. Tucked away in the corner of a busy junction was the blink-and-you-miss-it food joint that rewards those who stop by with the quirkiest sodas in the city.


The Blue Star is a mild, mint-based concoction. Pic/Satyajit Desai

Step inside and its three-member staff greets you as enthusiastically as might a regular, even though this might be your first visit here.
Gala Soda Centre is a landmark of sorts, boasting of loyalists who make their way from far and wide just for a glass of their exotic sounding and flavoured sodas.

The man behind the counter offers several helpful suggestions as we glance through the menu prominently displayed on the door of the Soda centre, which includes a short list of eats.
The place has bottles filled with different coloured syrups, much like a gola shop.

One-man-army Raju deftly takes one bottle at a time off the cluttered shelf, and quickly whips up the drink in front of us. "Do you like it?" he asks, with an expectant smile on his face. But we are enjoying our soda far too much to offer anything more than an eager nod of our heads to express our appreciation.

One sip of the Fruit Beer Soda and we're glad we stopped by. The soda is light, with just the right amount of flavour. Next, we order the Blue Star, which turns out to be a mild, mint-based concoction. The Falsa soda (spelt 'False' Soda on the menu by the door) is a popular choice, and is a mix of Kala Khatta and Kokum. Other flavoured sodas include Ginger and Rose, so there's likely to be something for everyone.

It's a pity that Gala doesn't have more branches in the city, as drinks as refreshing and enjoyable as these can give other aerated drinks a run for their money.

As we sat near the trees on the sidewalk among friends, we were transported back to our carefree college days. Gala Soda Centre will surely make it to our list of Mumbai's little-known treasures.

At Gala Soda Centre, near Ruia College, Matunga (E).
FOR Rs 17 per glass