Britannia & Co is more than just a restaurant; it is a living testament to the city’s vibrant history and cultural diversity. The restaurant has offered patrons a taste of Parsi and Iranian cuisine since 1923 and has more than stood the test of time. The cafe’s owner, Boman Kohinoor was as much of a legend as the place itself. No diner has been able to resist Britannia’s timeless charm.
Article By Suprita Mitter | Slurrp
Image Credit: Wikipedia Images
Situated in Ballard Estate which at lunchtime sees large groups of office-goers descend on its otherwise quiet lanes, for nearly a century, Britannia & Co has remained a beloved culinary landmark, attracting locals, tourists, and celebrities alike with its charming old-world ambiance and authentic dishes.
Photo Credit: Britannia & Co. Restaurant /Instagram
Diners travel long distances for a plate of the coveted Berry pulao. Until a few years ago they would be greeted by an enthusiastic Boman Kohinoor and his wide grin, ushering them in and finding them a table. He would often return with stories. There were days when he was really chatty. Despite the restaurant being packed, each table would get his time and attention.
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Britannia & Co’s enduring legacy is connected with Mumbai’s colonial past and the city’s development as a commercial hub. The restaurant has weathered numerous changes over the decades, yet has managed to preserve its original character and culinary traditions.
The story of Britannia & Co began when Boman Kohinoor, a young Iranian immigrant, founded the restaurant in 1923. At the time, Mumbai (then Bombay) was a thriving metropolis, buzzing with business activities. It was a melting pot of cultures. The Kohinoor family saw an opportunity to introduce Parsi and Iranian cuisine to the city’s cosmopolitan crowd. With its colonial charm, the restaurant quickly became a favourite among British officers and the local elite.
What Makes Brittania & Co. So Popular?
Walking into Britannia & Co. is like stepping back in time. The restaurant’s decor has remained largely unchanged since its inception, featuring vintage furniture, checkered tablecloths, and sepia-toned photographs adorning the walls. There are high ceilings and creaking wooden floors all of which add to the eatery’s nostalgic charm.
One of the most endearing aspects of dining at Britannia & Co is the warm and personalised service provided by the Kohinoor family. For many years, the late Boman Kohinoor, the charismatic patriarch, would personally greet guests, regaling them with stories about the restaurant’s history and famous patrons. His infectious enthusiasm and passion for sharing the Parsi culture made every visit to Britannia & Co a memorable experience. Today, his legacy is carried forward by his family, who continue to uphold the tradition.
Britannia & Co holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars and visitors. The restaurant has been featured in numerous travel guides, documentaries, and culinary shows, drawing attention to its unique offerings and historical significance. Boman Kohinoor would often proudly show patrons newspaper cuttings of articles published about the restaurant.
Famous Guests Who Visited Britannia & Co
While the restaurant has always played host to celebrities from every walk of life – writers, musicians, academics, actors, and so on, it made it to the news when Boman Kohinoor met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2016. Though the royal couple didn’t make it to the restaurant, they met Kohinoor who was 93 years old back then. They met at an out-of-schedule meeting at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai.
Boman Kohinoor had always been a self-proclaimed fan of the British royal family. He called himself their No.1 fan. There are large life-size cut-outs of the queen and Kate and William at the restaurant. A video of Kohinoor asking to meet the royal couple during their India visit went viral and this led to the royal couple meeting Kohinoor. Kohinoor would often walk up to guests and show off the letters and pictures he had sent to the Queen and the ones she ha replied to.
What To Order At Britannia & Co
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Britannia & Co is renowned for its Parsi and Iranian dishes, each meticulously prepared according to traditional recipes handed down through generations. The menu is a delightful journey through the rich flavours of Parsi cuisine. It’s a great place to taste the unique blend of Indian and Persian influences.
One of the most iconic dishes on the menu is the Berry Pulao, a fragrant rice dish topped with succulent pieces of chicken or mutton, caramelised onions, and tangy barberries that have always been imported from Iran. The use of barberries, which add a distinct sweet and sour flavour, is a hallmark of Parsi cooking. This dish, with its exquisite balance of spices and textures, has become synonymous with Britannia & Co and is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.
Another crowd favourite is the Dhansak, a hearty and aromatic dish made with lentils, vegetables, and meat, typically served with caramelised brown rice. The menu also features Sali Boti, a spicy and tangy mutton curry garnished with crispy potato straws, and Patra Ni Machhi, a delicate preparation of fish marinated in coconut chutney and steamed in banana leaves. These dishes, among others, showcase the versatility and depth of Parsi culinary traditions.
Price For Two At Britannia & Co. Restaurant
The average price for two people dining at Britannia & Co. is approximately ₹1,500 to ₹2,000. This price range typically includes a selection of their famous dishes, such as Berry Pulao, Dhansak, and Sali Boti, along with appetisers and beverages such as the Raspberry Soda. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and authentic flavours, making it a favourite. Despite its popularity, Britannia & Co. maintains a reasonable pricing structure, offering good value for a memorable meal.
Photo Credit: Britannia & Co. Restaurant / Instagram
Staying Relevant
Like many heritage establishments, Britannia & Co has faced its share of challenges over the years. The changing landscape of Mumbai’s dining scene, economic fluctuations, and many other factors posed a threat to its survival. Yet, the restaurant has managed to adapt while staying true to its roots. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Britannia & Co, like many other eateries, had to temporarily close its doors.
However, the resilience of the Kohinoor family and their loyal patrons ensured that the restaurant could reopen and continue serving its cherished dishes. That resilience is probably what makes Britannia & Co. an iconic institution in Mumbai. That fact that it still stands and thrives is comforting. It’s good to have things and places one can hold on to, especially in Mumbai where the city physically and culturally changes so rapidly.