Banyan Tree Café

7, 9, Calicut Rd, Ballard Estate,

Fort, Mumbai 400001 

Mob: 0 96190 33000

Meal for two: Approximately Rs 600 + taxes

There’s just something about Ballard Estate that transports you to a place far away from the hustle of the city. Then to have a dining space within that furthers the tranquillity you seek… Banyan Tree Café is a breath of fresh air. With a terrace garden that brings the herbs straight to your plate to seasonal, local produce from an adopted farm in Karjat, this all-day sustainable café is a namesake for the ancient tree that stands in the courtyard of this 10,000 sq. ft. interdisciplinary space called IF.BE. That’s right, Ice Factory.Ballard Estate: all refashioned, repurposed and a dream for art and architecture lovers.

Sitting under the banyan tree, let Good Vibes flow forth. That’s a sunny bowl of avocado, orange, rocket and frisée with a sprinkle of cranberries, from their Hugs in a Salad Bowl array. Pair it with a freshly squeezed juice or a luscious smoothie like the Strawberry Skies where the berry meets mint, roasted almonds, rice crisps and greek yogurt. The All-Day Brekkie means you have to join The Breakfast Club – traditionally English with a fried egg served with toast, baked beans and chicken sausage. Pancakes, waffles, even French toast done in skimmed milk accompanied by a mixed fruit compote. Choosing to dine on the mains here? It’s a mélange, from No-Meat Cheat – of grilled tofu with herb jus, sautéed veggies, and garlic mash. Fish lovers, the Salmon Says is a well-grilled Atlantic salmon with lemon butter sauce, and creamy mashed potatoes. Toasties like the Mutton Kheema are also at your disposal, meat lovers. Treat the senses further with the limited dessert menu:  cheesecake, mud cake or apple pie. IF.BE is a must and BTC even more so.