Mumbai is home to a vibrant café culture that caters to students seeking affordable yet cosy spaces to unwind, study, or catch up with friends. With budgets often tight, students are always on the lookout for cafés that offer good food, a welcoming ambiance, and reasonable prices. Fortunately, the city boasts a variety of student-friendly cafés where one can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee without breaking the bank. Here’s a curated list of the best pocket-friendly eateries in Mumbai where you can enjoy a great experience for just under ₹500 per person.
So, check them out and burp out loud!
Best Pocket-Friendly Eateries In Mumbai Under ₹500
1. Prithvi Café
View this post on Instagram
Prithvi Café is a cosy spot in Juhu. It offers affordable, delicious snacks and beverages. Students often visit for its relaxed ambiance. The outdoor seating is perfect for Mumbai’s weather. Regular cultural events make it a vibrant place to unwind.
Where: 20, Janki Kutir Apartment, Alongside Prithvi Theatre, Juhu Church Rd
When: 10:30am – 10:30pm
Cost: ₹300 for one person (approx.)
2. Kyani & Co.
View this post on Instagram
Kyani & Co. is a historic Irani café. It serves hearty Parsi dishes and budget-friendly bakery items. Students love its old-world charm and authentic flavours. The simple decor and nostalgic vibes create a unique dining experience. It’s a true Mumbai landmark.
Where: Jer Mahal Estate, 657, Jagannath Shankar Seth Rd, opp. Metro Inox Theatre, Dhobi Talao, Marine Lines
When: 8am – 7pm
Cost: ₹150 for one person (approx.)
3. Shakey Wakey
View this post on Instagram
Shakey Wakey offers a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. Known for its shakes and waffles, it’s a student favourite. The prices are student-friendly, and the portions are generous. The colourful decor and friendly staff make it a popular hangout spot in Bandra West.
Where: Elko Arcade Shopping Centre, Waterfield Road, Santosh Nagar, Bandra West
When: 12:30pm – 3am
Cost: ₹250 for one person (approx.)
4. Coustle Café
View this post on Instagram
Coustle Café is a hidden gem in Nerul. It serves affordable comfort food, perfect for students. The laid-back vibe and cosy interiors make it ideal for study sessions. The café offers free Wi-Fi, adding to its appeal as a student-friendly spot.
Where: Sec-6, Sarsole Koliwada entrance, Nerul West, opposite SBI bank, Sector 4, Navi Mumbai
When: 10:30am – 10:30pm
Cost: ₹225 for one person (approx.)
5. Candies
View this post on Instagram
Candies is a Bandra institution loved by students. It offers a wide variety of snacks and meals at reasonable prices. The vibrant, eclectic decor and multiple seating areas make it a great spot to chill. Its desserts are particularly popular among young patrons.
Where: 5AA Pali Hill, Bandra (W), next to Learners Academy School
When: 8:30am – 10:30pm
Cost: ₹400 for one person (approx.)
6. Café Amigos
View this post on Instagram
Café Amigos is a cosy café in Thane. It serves a range of affordable snacks and beverages. Students appreciate its warm, inviting ambiance and friendly service. The café also hosts occasional live music, adding to its charm as a student hangout.
Where: 12, Sunrise Shopping Complex, Behind Hiranandani Meadows, Off Ghodbunder Road, Thane West
When: 8am – 11pm
Cost: ₹400 for one person (approx.)
7. Bombay To Barcelona Library Café
View this post on Instagram
This café supports social causes while serving delicious, budget-friendly food. Students love the cosy, book-lined interiors and free library access. The café promotes a sense of community and offers a calm space to study or relax.
Where: Timmy Arcade, 778, Makwana Rd, Gamdevi, Marol, Andheri East
When: 10am – 11pm
Cost: ₹425 for one person (approx.)
8. Banyan Tree Cafe
View this post on Instagram
Banyan Tree Cafe is an eco-friendly café in Fort. It offers organic, vegetarian meals at student-friendly prices. The peaceful atmosphere, with indoor plants and earthy decor, makes it a serene escape. It’s a perfect spot for students seeking a quiet retreat.
Where: 7, 9, Calicut Rd, Ballard Estate, Fort
When: 8am – 10pm
Cost: ₹350 for one person (approx.)
9. Café Andora
View this post on Instagram
Café Andora is a simple, unpretentious café in Bandra West. It serves affordable snacks and beverages. Students appreciate its relaxed vibe and quick service. The café is known for its tasty sandwiches and fresh pastries, making it a favourite among locals.
Where: 10, St Domnic Rd, Bandra West
When:8am – 9:30pm
Cost: ₹100 for one person (approx.)
10. Mumbai Express Café
Mumbai Express Café is a small, cosy spot in Kandivali West. It offers a variety of snacks and beverages at affordable prices. Students like its casual, no-frills ambiance and friendly staff. It’s a great place to catch up with friends over a quick bite.
Where: 18, New Link Rd, opp. ICICI Bank, Shravan Nagar, Kandivali West
When: 8am – 12am
Cost: ₹250 for one person (approx.)
These are some of the best pocket-friendly eateries in Mumbai that offer the perfect blend of affordability, comfort, and delicious food. These spots cater to all needs without straining your budget. Enjoy the diverse flavours and unique atmospheres each café has to offer.
Cover Image Courtesy: Rachna Srivastava, @prithvicafe.official/ Instagram
With inputs from Vinita Jain and Nikitha Sebastian.
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: August 06, 2024 5:17 PM