I was not expecting much as I entered Radio Bar in Malad, Mumbai. Maybe a drink or two. A quick stop was the plan. But the location is alluring. The lights are warming up, the music becomes familiar, and suddenly you find yourself in the midst of something that seems a bit indulgent, nostalgic, and very difficult to get out of. You are savouring a moment, delicately sipping a beverage that appears too exquisite to disturb, and then proceeding to order the next. And slowly, a simple stop becomes an entire night out.
Inside Radio Bar Mumbai: A Nostalgia-Laced Design Story
The space does the convincing for the most part. Radio Bar is in the heart of the work-and-live space in Malad. It’s the type of spot to choose when you cannot make up your mind whether to have a casual catch-up or a real party. It is simple, even relaxing, to step in during the day, and the sun is pouring inside through large glass windows, and the alfresco section is calling to you softly to take long lunches and slow drinks. Wait a few hours and witness the mood change in the place. The lights from the golden ceiling make the room feel slimmer, and it seems that everything is slightly more alive, somewhat more hedonistic.
Design Elements That Characterise The Space
Your eyes are initially drawn to the bar, which is encircled by a wall covered with cassettes that is heavily slanted toward nostalgia without appearing excessive. Gaze down, and you will discover the details that are continually becoming visible to you: vinyl records, drum plates reworked into lights, and even hanging microphones like works of art. The space is designed well with pops of blue and red, particularly when used on the plush seating. It’s all assembled like the throwback done right: part old-school American diner, part 90s Bollywood dream.
What Did We Order At Radio Bar Malad?
Now, straight to the pleasant part, the food and drinks. No thinking, simple order, drink, repeat.
Drinks That Set The Tone
Mocktail:
Naam 25 (Panchees) Hai!
A bright passionfruit flavour follows, as it is light and has a clean citrus tang. It is a sweet, not very basic, but a very familiar kind of drink.
Cocktail:
1. Paloma Pandey
This cocktail is tequila-forward, with kokum and grapefruit that tone down the edge. It has a slight saline kick at the end, which makes every drink more subtle.
2. Dark & Stormi
A classic done right. Dark rum, lime, and fizz. It is direct, no-frills, and minimalist, and it does not attempt to impress. The type of beverage you order, which you never even give a second thought to.
Appetisers That Had The Table Hopping
Between the initial drink and the music becoming louder, the table started filling up. We ordered what we saw, and in a moment, it was a whole spread. That’s how the food works here
1. Mushroom Bruschetta
Rich without feeling heavy. The truffle oil speaks, supported by a profuse combination of mushrooms and a clean touch of parmesan. It is luxurious and yet simple to share.
2. Pan-Fried Veg Dumplings
It is more a texture dish than a flavour one. Sharp edges, a mushy centre, and hot-and-sour sauce at the bottom bind it all together. The tuile adds a satisfying crunch.
3. Avocado Toast
A mild avocado flavour with a light truffle scent. This is the type of plate that won’t try too hard to stabilise heavier dishes.
4. Korean Fried Chicken
Exactly what you want at a bar. Fresh, juicy, with spicy Korean sauce that is perfect on the side.
5. Mutton Roast
Slow-roasted, full of flavour. The caramelised onions give it a touch of sweetness, but the spices and curry leaves give it depth. Comfort food, but elevated.
6. Picante Prawns
Easily the standout dish. Prawns are mashed and rolled in sausage form with picante-like spice. It is risky, a bit surprising, and the type of food suggested for the next table.
Mains That Slows Things Down
1. Herb-Grilled Chicken
Fresh, cosy, and well-assembled, juicy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and a luxurious red wine jus are all that can hold it all together. The charred vegetables provide a sufficient crunch to make it even.
Dessert To Wrap It Up Right
1. Mud Brownie with Ice Cream
Dense, hot brownies, with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramelised slivers of roasted almonds to add crunch. Classic, cosy, and just the way you’d like to finish off a night like this.
Do We Suggest You Visit The Radio Bar Mumbai?
Book your tables without a second thought! Radio Bar Malad is the type of bar where one loses track of time and intentions, and one drink turns into many. You enter the room with a plan for the night, but the space, music, and energy take over.
Cover Image Courtesy: Kamlesh Garde/Supplied
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