Okay, while this little café is not going to win any design awards, Samovar Café remains an icon on the Mumbai creative scene. Going strong for no less than 40 years, this old lady keenly challenges the dull, coffee chains nearby. Slightly down at heel but with friendly waiters and snappy service, artists, bohemians, students, art lovers and tourists all flock here to cool-off with a lime soda and tasty tidbits or a cold beer (no other alcohol is on sale here).

Especially good are the stuffed parathas and mango lassis. Handily located in the Jehangir Art Gallery, it overlooks the gardens of the Prince of Wales Museum so it’s an ideal pit-stop during a cultural walk or art tour. In a city as flashy and modern as Mumbai, it’s nice there’s a little slice of something different – and we can confirm that it’s as popular as ever.