A Visit to Veronica’s Cafe in Bandra

Recently, I had the pleasure of spending some time in Mumbai, a city that never fails to inspire me with its colourful energy and rich culinary heritage. I always find it exciting and inspiring to explore the food and beverage scene in India. India holds a special place in my heart, not just for its people but for its incredible culinary history.

Indian food is made up of a wide range of diverse flavour profiles influenced by centuries of history and a multitude of cultures. From the ancient Indus Valley civilisation with its staples of wheat, barley, and dairy, to the Vedic period that brought us essential spices like turmeric and ginger, the journey of Indian food is fascinating and tasty. The Persians introduced saffron, dried fruits, and slow-cooking techniques, resulting in dishes like biryani and kebabs. The Mughals enriched the cuisine further with their kebabs, pilafs, and yoghurt-based marinades.

Colonial and trade interactions added even more layers to Indian cuisine. The Portuguese brought potatoes, tomatoes, and chilies, which led to the creation of dishes like vindaloo, while the British popularised tea and Anglo-Indian curries. Arab traders introduced dates and rose water, especially in sweets. Neighbouring countries also have played significant roles, with Chinese cooking influencing northeastern Indian street food and Southeast Asian flavours shaping coastal cuisines with coconut milk and a delicate balance of sweet, sour, and spicy elements. Modern global influences, especially from America, have introduced fast food and fusion cuisine, enriching the culinary landscape further.

During my visit to Mumbai, I was particularly keen to go to Veronica’s Cafe in Bandra, one of the city's most dynamic neighbourhoods. Housed inside the historic St. Jude Bakery, Veronica’s is a beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern casual dining. Designed by architect Shonan Purie Trehan, the cafe is a tribute to both the rich history of the location and the vibrant spirit of Bandra. It’s the latest venture by Hunger Inc., the team behind beloved establishments like The Bombay Canteen, O Pedro, and Bombay Sweet Shop.

Veronica’s Cafe is a nod to the past while embracing the present. Located on Veronica Street, it honours the legacy of St. Jude Bakery, which was once a communal baking hub for local families. The transformation from bakery to cafe was handled with care to preserve the historical essence while creating a contemporary, casual space. The architect Trehan retained the raw charm and historical layers of the old structure, incorporating original elements like glazed dado tiles with floral motifs, now complemented by modern epoxy flooring and playful decor.

The exterior of Veronica’s is distinguished by a striking mural originally painted by visual artist Akacorleone and later refurbished by St+art I ndia, adding to the cafe’s vibrant street presence. Inside, the large, yellow-tiled sandwich and coffee bar takes centre stage, serving an array of freshly brewed coffees, kombuchas on tap, and a delightful selection of house-made cookies and desserts. The menu, prominently displayed on the kitchen wall, features a variety of sensational sandwiches crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The cafe’s interior design fosters a sense of community with a large central table and smaller timber tables scattered around. The walls feature a bulletin board for local posts and a bright orange post-box for guest feedback. The colour palette of mint green, turmeric yellow, and sunset orange evokes the nostalgic warmth of old Bandra homes, creating a seamless blend of the old and new.

Veronica’s Cafe stands out not just for its culinary offerings but for its thoughtful integration of history and modernity. It has become a beloved neighbourhood spot that celebrates both its past and present. The cafe’s dedication to quality and sustainability is evident in its use of fresh, locally grown ingredients and its range of vegan and gluten-free options to cater to health-conscious customers. The beverage menu is equally impressive, featuring a variety of specialty coffees, teas, and refreshing kombuchas and smoothies, along with a curated selection of wines and craft beers.

In my opinion these visits help us develop concepts and inspire us to build upon what we see and experience across the world. When creating food and beverage concepts for any hotel, these concepts need to be based on that city's culture, heritage, and influences as much as taking inspiration from across the world.

I will share more about the fantastic restaurants I visited in Mumbai, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Western Australia in my next article. Until then, if you find yourself in Bandra, do stop by Veronica’s Cafe for a taste of history and a celebration of great food.

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