Is Goregaon-Malad the new Bandra? Here's your complete guide to hangout there without a fuss

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For years, Bandra has been the city's cultural shorthand for cool. But lately, the energy has shifted north. Malad and Goregaon are packed with interesting eateries and things to do. From cult sandwich shops to trampoline parks and pottery studios, this is where Mumbai's next hangout map is taking shape.

Let's eat

Win's Smoke House

PIC/REDDIT@R/MUMBAIFOOD

A stationary food truck that's become a solid word-of-mouth favourite, Win's serves up American-style smoked BBQ with an Indian touch. Think pork ribs, pulled pork burgers, chicken wings, and more. Pair it with a kokum sherbet, and you're set for the night. Opens 7 pm, closed Tuesdays.

Sernyaa Tibetan Kitchen

A budget-friendly gem for traditional Tibetan food. From thukpa and Tenzing soups to hearty noodle and rice dishes, it's simple, comforting, and quietly consistent. There's Indo-Chinese on the menu too, but Tibetan staples are where it shines.

Stacks and Racks

PIC/INSTAGRAM @ATSTACKSANDRACKS

For meat lovers, this old Malad hangout has been reliably dishing out pork ribs, burgers, and steaks for years. The menu is unapologetically American and perfect for when you're feeling fully
carnivorous and not in the mood to experiment.

Pinto Sando

One of Orlem's most loved sandwich spots, Pinto Sando swaps regular bread for Goan katre pav, and that's what makes all the difference. Vegetarian options like Mushroom Melt and Caprese-ish hold their own, while non-veg picks like The Posh (with beef steak), Choris Pao, and Korean Fried Chicken keep things exciting.

Hoy Maharaja Dhaba

Tucked inside Aarey Forest, this spot is perfect for a slightly offbeat outing. Apart from Malvani staples, the seafood boil here is worth getting your hands dirty for.

Benne Podi

PIC/INSTAGRAM @BENNEPODI

You no longer need to trek to Bandra and stand in line for a good benne dosa. This spot serves up buttery dosas, podi and thatte idlis, and a handful of rice dishes with kaapi to round it all off.

Vinayak Ice World

PIC/INSTAGRAM @VINAYAKICEWORLD

An old-school malai gola and ice cream shop that's suddenly everywhere this season. The star? Alphonso mango with tadgola on in-house malai ice cream. Think: fresh hapus, soft tadgola, and creamy textures all coming together. If mango isn't your thing, there's plenty more on offer.

Goan Cart

PIC/YOUTUBE @WILD HACK

This small street cart in Orlem punches way above its weight. Expect Goan staples like xacuti and sukka, alongside cutlet pao, thalis, and fresh fish fry. It opens in the evening and feels like a neighbourhood ritual from 5.30 pm onwards, closed Tuesdays.

Koko

The Lower Parel Asian fine dining outlet has found its way to Garden City in Goregaon East, and we thank the universe for it. We dropped in on a Monday afternoon had a yummilicious time thanks to the varied types of sushi we tried. And to this certified Picante addict, their's was one of the best we have tried in the city. It's a good addition to the fine dining options this side of town. Must visit!

Konkan Swad

PIC/INSTAGRAM @KONKANSWAD_SEAFOOD_GOMANTAK

This is an oldie, but a goodie. And you will find an old review done by mid-day framed, hanging on the wall. What to try: Fried prawns, vegetarian thali, mutton curry, and all types of fish.

Do more than just eat

Pastel Mystery

PIC/FACEBOOK @THINGSTODOINMUMBAI

A tucked-away pottery studio in an industrial estate that feels like a hidden find. Sign up for workshops or plan an art date. It's a break from the usual plans.

Bounce

PIC/BOUNCEINC.IN

A full-blown trampoline park where you can quite literally bounce off walls. Think interconnected trampolines, foam pits, slam dunk zones, and obstacle courses. It's chaotic, high-energy fun, and surprisingly a great workout.

Happy Home

INSTAGRAM @HAPPYHOMES.RETAIL

In Goregaon, anime fans have their own little haven. From figurines to 3D-printed collectables, it's a niche but well-stocked space for anyone deep into the fandom.

State of Art

PIC/FACEBOOK @THINGSTODOINMUMBAI

A neighbourhood favourite for quirky finds. From knick-knacks and trinket boxes to wallets and giftable curios, it's the kind of store you walk into for "just a look" and leave with a shopping bag.

Banana Board Game Club

PIC/INSTAGRAM @BANANA.BOARD.GAME.CLUB

For those who like their nights a little more strategic, this board game club offers a wide range of titles. You can join the community or book a table for birthdays, dates, or just a competitive evening with friends.

Miko's Pet Cafe

PIC/INSTAGRAM @MIKOSPETSPA

Animal lovers, this one's for you. Spend time with a bunch of resident cats while you sip on a beverage; it's equal parts wholesome and therapeutic.

The Game Ranch

PIC/INSTAGRAM @THEGAMERANCH

A Texas ranch-themed arcade and restaurant that leans fully into the drama. Boutique bowling alleys, a mechanical bull, and a spread of arcade games make this an easy pick for a high-energy night out.

Bandra aesthetics, local cafes

Unscrptd

PIC/INSTAGRAM @UNSCRPTD.BOMBAY

This is coffee-forward with a range: cold brews, iced coffees, manual pours, and a matcha bar. The menu is stacked with small plates, flatbreads, sandwiches, and burgers. It's the kind of place you land up at for coffee and accidentally stay for a full meal.

Samvene The Bagel Cafe

PIC/INSTAGRAM @SAMVENESBAGELOFFICIAL

If you've been missing a proper bagel spot, this is it. From classic egg and cream cheese bagels to fusion versions, the options are endless. Add speciality coffee and iced brews, and you've got yourself a solid go-to.

Colin's Cafe

PIC/INSTAGRAM @COLINSMUMBAI

An all-day dining space that does coffee as well as comfort food. Expect pasta, lobster rolls, French toast, and tiramisu. The offerings here are easy, reliable, and perfect for long catch-ups.

Also...

The malls also just got bigger and better. Mumbai's best-looking Zara has now opened at Inorbit, Malad. Add to that, there's Uniqlo, and all the other high street brands you can think of

With inputs by Aastha Atray Banan