In the heart of Mayfair, just off Regent Street, sits Bombay Bustle, a restaurant that captures the vibrant energy of Mumbai while blending it seamlessly with London’s fine dining scene. Located at 29 Maddox Street, this eatery is in good company, sharing the street with culinary gems like Manthan, known for its refined vegetarian and vegan creations by chef Rohit Ghai, and the Michelin-starred Jamavar, celebrated for its luxurious take on Indian cuisine. Maddox Street has become a hub for world-class dining, making it the perfect setting for Bombay Bustle’s unique concept.
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Location & Neighbourhood Vibe
Bombay Bustle’s location is as fashionable as its menu. Nestled in a lively stretch near Oxford Circus, Carnaby, and Piccadilly, it’s ideal for an evening out or a special celebration. With neighbours like Manthan and Jamavar, you can easily make it part of a Mayfair food trail or enjoy a leisurely stroll before or after dining.
Inside Bombay Bustle: Ground Floor Buzz vs. Basement Bliss
Ground Floor: The First-Class Carriage
The ground floor of Bombay Bustle greets you with a burst of Mumbai energy. Designed to resemble a first-class train carriage, it features pastel leather seating, terrazzo floors, and polished wood accents. The space is buzzing with life, evoking the chaotic yet charming vibe of Mumbai’s bustling streets and train stations. It’s perfect if you enjoy an energetic, social atmosphere where the sound of clinking glasses and laughter fills the air.
Basement: The Retiring Room
For a more intimate dining experience, head downstairs to The Retiring Room. This space is quieter, moodier, and widely regarded as the better of the two levels. With plush ruby-toned booths, soft lighting, timber paneling, and glass screens, the basement feels private and luxurious. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner, special occasion, or simply for those who prefer a calmer environment.
A Culinary Journey: Tasting Menu Highlights
Bombay Bustle’s menu is a love letter to Mumbai’s diverse culinary landscape, blending home-style recipes with street food favourites and modern twists. The sharing menu, priced at £68 per person (minimum two diners), takes you on a three-course journey through bold flavours and rich textures.
Appetisers
The experience begins with an array of starters designed for sharing:
- Mini Dosas Trio – A playful selection featuring Aloo Masala, Schezwan Cheese, and Duck Chettinad, each paired with vibrant chutneys.
- Bustle Kebab Platter – Available in vegetarian or non-vegetarian versions, showcasing grilled delights such as Achari Lamb Chops, Chicken Tikka, or Paneer Tikka.
Mains
For mains, expect hearty, comforting dishes with a luxurious touch:
- Kesar Malai Kofta – Soft, saffron-infused vegetable dumplings in a velvety cashew and brown onion sauce.
- Chicken Tikka Makhani, Malabar Lamb Curry, and the classic Dabba Dal, all served with rice or naan, complete the feast.
Desserts
No Indian meal is complete without a sweet ending:
- Jalebi Cheesecake – A fun and modern take on traditional jalebi, paired with saffron caviar and served with Bombay Cutting Chai.
This menu perfectly balances innovation and tradition, making it ideal for both seasoned Indian food lovers and first-timers looking for something extraordinary.
Cocktails: A Toast to Mumbai
Bombay Bustle’s bar menu is as exciting as its food, offering drinks that are both inventive and rooted in Indian flavours. The cocktails are crafted to complement the boldness of the dishes and add an extra layer of indulgence to the experience.
Standout cocktails include:
- Pearl of Bombay – A tropical blend of Absolut vodka and passion-fruit chutney, topped with edible pearls for a touch of glamour.
- Old Gold Fashioned – A smoky, bourbon-based classic elevated with roasted pecan notes, perfect for slow sipping.
- Fire & Snow – A daring mix of jalapeño, chilli, and tequila for those who like a little heat.
Whether you start with a cocktail at the bar or enjoy one alongside your meal, the drinks here make a lasting impression.
Pricing Snapshot
Bombay Bustle’s pricing reflects its premium Mayfair location while offering good value for the quality and experience:
- Sharing Menu: £68 per person (wine pairing +£36)
- Brunch Menu: £48 per person (minimum two diners)
- À la carte Dinner: Expect around £133 per person for a three-course meal with drinks.
For comparison, nearby Manthan averages around £60 for a three-course dinner, placing Bombay Bustle in the higher but still accessible tier of Mayfair dining.
Awards & Recognition
While Bombay Bustle hasn’t secured a Michelin star, it frequently appears in London’s top Indian restaurant round-ups. Its thoughtful menu, exceptional design, and service have made it a favourite among critics and diners alike.
Celebrity Sightings: Virat Kohli & Anushka Sharma
Adding to its allure, Bombay Bustle is a hotspot for celebrities. Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have been spotted dining here multiple times, even being described as favourites of the team by chef Surender Mohan. Their visits highlight the restaurant’s reputation as a destination not just for food lovers, but for those seeking a truly special dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Bombay Bustle is more than just a restaurant — it’s an experience. From the lively ground floor to the serene basement, every corner tells a story. The tasting menu, with its mini dosas, kebab platters, and rich malai kofta, brings the flavours of Mumbai to life, while the inventive cocktails add a modern Mayfair twist.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, looking for a unique date night spot, or simply craving exceptional Indian cuisine, Bombay Bustle delivers on all fronts. It’s a little slice of Mumbai’s soul, right here in Mayfair.