Bombay to Barcelona Café is a unique spot in Mumbai that offers a warm blend of Indian and international vibes. It’s not just a place to grab a coffee or a meal; it’s a café with a heartwarming story. Founded by Amin Sheikh, a former street child, the café aims to give back to the community by providing employment opportunities to young adults from challenging backgrounds. This mission adds a special touch to the café, making it a place where people can feel good about their visit, knowing they’re supporting a worthy cause.
The café itself is a cozy and welcoming space. It’s the kind of place where you can relax with a book, catch up with friends, or even meet new people. The décor is simple yet charming, with a mix of Indian and Spanish influences that reflect the café’s name. The menu is diverse, offering a range of dishes that cater to both local tastes and international cravings. However, while the café has received a lot of love for its mission and ambiance, some visitors feel that the food could use a bit more polish. Still, if you’re looking for a café with a conscience, Bombay to Barcelona is definitely worth a visit.
Location
The café is located in Marol, Andheri East, an area that’s easy to reach whether you’re a local or a tourist. Tucked away in a quieter part of the neighborhood, Bombay to Barcelona Café offers a bit of a respite from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. It’s close enough to the main roads and public transport, making it accessible, yet far enough from the noise to provide a peaceful spot to unwind.
As you approach the café, you’ll notice its colorful exterior, which stands out against the more mundane buildings around it. The location is convenient for those working in the area, and it’s also a nice pitstop if you’re exploring the city and need a place to rest your feet and recharge. The area around the café is a mix of residential and commercial spaces, so you get a real sense of the city’s daily life, making your visit feel even more authentic.
Ambience
The ambiance at Bombay to Barcelona Café is one of its biggest draws. The café exudes a welcoming, laid-back vibe that makes you feel at home as soon as you walk in. The décor is a blend of Indian and Spanish elements, with bright colors, wooden furniture, and quirky wall art that tell a story of different cultures coming together. There are bookshelves filled with a variety of books, adding to the café’s cozy feel. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or to spend a few hours working or reading, the atmosphere encourages you to relax and enjoy your time.
However, while the ambiance is generally appreciated, some visitors feel that the café can get a bit too crowded, especially during peak hours. This can make it a little noisy, which might not be ideal if you’re looking for a quiet place to work or have a conversation. But if you’re in the mood for a lively, community-focused spot, the energy of the place can be quite invigorating.
Menu
The menu at Bombay to Barcelona Café offers a mix of Indian and international dishes, making it a great place for both locals and tourists.
Vada Pav
Mushroom Fusion Vada Pav
Chicken Fusion Vada Pav
Mutton Fusion Vada Pav
Coffees
Cappuccino
Caramel Cappuccino
Café Mocha
Hazelnut Café
Espresso
Cortado
Americano
Cafe Latte
Main Courses
Baingan Bharta
Paneer Pesto
Club Vegetable
Chicken Spinach Cheese
Paneer Spinach Cheese
Alfredo Chicken
Agliolio Chicken
Pink Chicken
Marinara Chicken
Pesto Chicken
Balle Balle Chicken
Thai Green Curry Veg
Thai Green Curry Non Veg
Thai Green Curry
Pizza
Veg Pizza
Chicken Pizza
Only Cheese Pizza
Mutton Pizza
Lasagne
Veg Lasagne
Chicken Lasagne
Mutton Lasagne
Velvety Butter
Sauteed Vegetables
Spinach Chicken Saute
Salads
Fresh Salad
Greek Salad
Fruit Salad
Mediterranean Salad
Sweet Crepes
Chocolate
Chocolate + Icecream
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Chocolate + Banana + Icecream
Apple Caramel
Maple Syrup
Savoury Crepes
Cheese
Paneer Pesto
Juices
Nimbu Pani
Cucumber Spinach
Beetroot Carrot
Papaya
Papaya Carrot
The café also caters to different dietary preferences, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, which is a big plus for those with specific dietary needs.
Reviews
Positive
Reviews of Bombay to Barcelona Café are generally positive, with many people praising the café for its mission and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The story behind the café adds a layer of meaning to the experience, and for many visitors, that’s enough to make it a place worth returning to. The staff, many of whom come from difficult backgrounds, are often mentioned for their friendly and attentive service.
Negative
Some reviewers also feel that the food, while decent, could use some improvement. There are occasional complaints about the quality and consistency of the dishes, with some patrons finding the flavors a bit underwhelming. The café’s popularity also means it can get quite busy, which can affect the speed of service and the availability of seating. But despite these minor drawbacks, most visitors leave with a sense of satisfaction, knowing they’ve supported a good cause while enjoying a pleasant café experience.
Bombay to Barcelona Café is a place that offers more than just food and the overall experience of dining here, knowing that you’re supporting a café with a purpose, is something special. If you’re in Mumbai and looking for a café that’s both socially conscious and enjoyable, Bombay to Barcelona is definitely worth a visit.