A 1923-founded Parsi cafe in Ballard Estate famous for its berry pulao, run for decades by the late Boman Kohinoor.
Opened in 1923 by the Kohinoor family, Britannia & Co. is one of Mumbai's last surviving Irani cafes and is best known for its berry pulao, made with barberries imported from Iran and served with tender mutton or chicken. The dining room retains its original wooden furniture, ceiling fans, and framed portraits of the British royal family. It serves lunch only and closes once the day's pulao runs out, so late arrivals sometimes miss the signature dish.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Mon-Sat 11:30 AM - 4:00 PM (lunch only, closed Sundays) |
| Dress code | Casual |
| Reservations | Not accepted, arrive early for a table |
| Address | Wakefield House, 11, Sprott Road, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001 |
Signature dishes
- Berry Pulao
- Sali Boti
- Caramel Custard
Good to know
- Known for
- Berry pulao with barberries imported from Iran
Weather through the year in Mumbai
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C.
Location
Wakefield House, 11, Sprott Road, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
18.9375, 72.8408 View on map
Highlights
- Berry pulao made with imported Iranian barberries
- Original 1923 interior and furnishings preserved
- One of the last functioning Irani cafes in Mumbai
Tips for visiting
- Arrive by 12:30 PM, the pulao often sells out by early afternoon
- Closed on Sundays, plan a weekday visit
- Cash is preferred though cards are now accepted
Accessibility
Ground floor, narrow entrance stairs from the street
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Why does it only serve lunch?
The cafe has operated on a lunch-only schedule for decades and closes once the daily pulao supply is exhausted, typically mid-afternoon.
How much does the berry pulao cost?
The berry pulao with chicken or mutton costs around INR 500-650 (approx $5.30-6.85 USD).