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More and more celebs are making their way into the hospitality industry, and the latest to join the bandwagon is the much-revered singer Shankar Mahadevan. Over the weekend, Mahadevan hosted friends, family, and kids from CRY Foundation to kickstart the operations at his latest venture, Malgudi. Situated in Borivali, Malgudi is a quaint curated take on South Indian fare, and is inspired by the often forgotten dishes from the kitchens in the region.
Here's what we know about Malgudi
The news first came out when choreographer-director Farah Khan recently featured her visit to the Mahadevans on her vlog. A big foodie, Farah enjoyed the Thecha and Potli Prawns that Shankar Mahadevan had himself cooked. While it is not known to most, the singer is quite passionate about food and indulges himself in gastronomical adventures now and then. This is where he shared that he’ll be bringing three branches of Malgudi to the city. Borivali branch of the South Indian eatery has just started operations; Chembur and Lower Parel are expected to follow suit soon.
The menu of Malgudi is said to have been curated by Shankar Mahadevan himself, and the singer pointed out that there are many dishes and recipes that are relatively unknown to the masses. Case in point, Mulbagal Dosa. With upturned edges, thick fluffy insides, and crispy thinner borders, this is one of the many varieties of dose in Karnataka. But if you’re a fan of the trending takes on South Indian fare, Malgudi also has options like benne dose, thatte idli, and a filter coffee-inspired kappi-cino.
From music to food
The opening of Malgudi is, in many ways homecoming for Mahadevan. The star singer was born in a Tamil family from Palakkad, living in Chembur, Mumbai. He started learning Hindustani classical and Carnatic music as a child, and was playing the veena at the age of five under Shri Lalitha Venkataraman. He then studied music under Pandit Shrinivas Khale and T.R. Balamani. Thanks to his passion and undeniable talent, his rise to fame was meteoric. From making waves with his breakout solo tracks like Breathless to becoming one-third of the iconic Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy trio, he has gifted Indian music lovers with some of the most iconic music. While his vocal prowess is unmatched but also his ability to innovate fearlessly with mixing and matching music makes him stand out in the sea of gifted artists.
Now, after decades of captivating us with music, Shankar Mahadevan seems to have found another field to shine, in hospitality. Drawing inspiration from the flavours and aromas of his South Indian upbringing, Malgudi celebrates authenticity while being very curated, and very creative. As he has pointed out over time, Malgudi is not just about food; it’s about storytelling, culture, and identity, much like his career in music. Just as his songs have long been comfort and joy for his fans, we can only hope that his restaurant manages to serve the same warmth, just this time, on a plate.
Other South Indian spots to check out in Mumbai
If you love South Indian food, and want to explore more eateries in Mumbai that do a beautiful spread, check these out.
Dakshinayan
Tradition and elegance come together harmoniously in Dakshinayan, nestled in the tranquil areas of Juhu and Malabar Hill. This much loved brand offers traditional South Indian flavours with a refined touch, and is well-known for its amazing classics like Molaga Podi Idli, Rava Garlic Masala Dosa, and Mixed Uttapam. Every bite exudes comfort and sophistication, the service is kind, and the atmosphere is serene. The best part? Their filter coffee is consistently excellent, and no matter when you go, it just hits!
Banana Leaf
Believe us when we say, vegetarian food has never looked or tasted this chic. From Rajni and Mughlai idli to oatmeal uttapam and an amazing thali, Banana Leaf takes pride in its fusion South Indian cuisine, which spans Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra and Tamil Nadu. Their rasam? Heavenly! Chic interiors and inventive cuisine, perfect for a cosy monsoon date!
Arya Bhavan
If heartwarming, soulful food is what you want, this spot is it. Arya Bhavan in Matunga East has practically been a shrine for filter kaapi lovers, serving up comfort staples like Bisi Bele Bath, Mysore Masala Dosa to go with it. No frills, just honest portions and love on a plate, what’s there to not love?
Tanjore Tiffin Room
Meet tradition with a twist, and an iconic one at that. In Versova’s chic milieu, The Tanjore Tiffin Room serves South Indian curries so divine you’ll question everything else you’ve eaten before. Oh and did we tell you that they let you taste multiple curries before ordering? Just what can be better!
Cafe Mysore
Founded in the 1930s near King's Circle, this old-school beauty is a Matunga treasure. And Mysore Café serves up idlis and dosas on plantain leaves. Authentically chic, unpretentious, and eternally beloved by students and foodies alike. For decades, every bite at Mysore Cafe has tasted timeless, making it a spot you just can’t miss. And the list of regulars? Includes Ambanis, big political names, and just everyone else!
Ramashray
You’d judge us hard if we ended this list without Ramashray, and its easy to see why. This decades-old eatery opens its doors at the crack of dawn and still has a queue outside, proof that its idlis, upma, and neer dosas are nothing short of legendary. The sambhar is light, tangy, and soul-hugging, while the rasam has a cult following of its own. Affordable, authentic, and brimming with charm, Ram Ashray is Mumbai’s crown jewel when it comes to South Indian restaurants!