Reading during the holidays is best done at a cosy table with a good view and plenty of coffee. After all, what could be better than a hazelnut cappuccino, a lemon drop cookie, and a book? Nowadays, Indian cities have several bookstores that also have a cafe attached, from places in the mountains and hill stations like Mussoorie and Kalimpong to metro cities. Here are some book cafes in Mumbai where bookworms can pause for a bit and refresh themselves.
Head to this bookstore in Fort, Mumbai, for a dose of atmospheric charm. Browsing and reading books within this two-floor Raj-era structure with towering ceilings and Corinthian columns will be a wonderful experience. Kitab Khana has an in-house cafe with a vegetarian menu. Look out for book readings, author meetings, and other literary activities that take place here on a regular basis.
Address: Flora Fountain, Somaiya Bhavan, 45 / 47, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
If you have a thing for graphic novel and comic books, head to this cafe in Versova spread across two floors and a basement. The walls sport quirky comic strips. And the basement has a reading room, with a fee, which is filled with comic books of every genre. If you get hungry, order some burgers and fries from the menu which features a mix of European and American dishes.
Address: Corner View, 3, Dr.Ashok Chopra Marg, Opp. Bianca Towers, Amit Nagar, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400061
Theatre, books, and food under one roof, what more could anyone want? Mumbai's iconic Prithvi Theatre in Juhu has been a hub of culture for a long time. Apart from the theatre auditorium, the cosy space also has a bookshop and a cafe. The lively Prithivi Café is an open-air cafe surrounded by trees. It is famous for its brownies and Irish Coffee, and cutting chai. The bonus? You may spot several well-known theatre and film personalities here.
Address: 20, Janki Kutir Apartment, Alongside Prithvi Theatre, Juhu Church Rd, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049
A good mix of excellent books, and food and drinks, this space serves as a haven from the madding crowd of the Maximum City. They have their own library, as well as board games and offer a well-curated food and bar menu, and some wonderful music that adds to the cosy atmosphere.
Address: 80, Veer Nariman Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
This bookstore is spread over 8,000 square feet and stocks books in separate sections by category. Peruse your new books while sipping a cup of coffee at the Di Bella. Also, keep a watch out for writing classes, events, and book launches.
Address: St Paul Media Complex, Rd Number 24, opp. Duruelo Convent School, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
