Mumbai’s Iconic Parsi Cafe, Jimmy Boy, Shuts Down A Few Weeks Before Its 100th Anniversary

Just a few months shy of its 100th anniversary, Mumbai’s Parsi institution, Jimmy Boy, has closed its doors. The eatery known for its homely Parsi fare was a home away from home for its patrons who flocked for the piping hot berry pulao and decadent dhansak. This September, Jimmy Boy would have clocked in 100 years of its existence. Alas, its dream and its loyal customers’ haunt stay crumbled. Here’s why the restaurant had to bid a final goodbye to Mumbaikars.

Jimmy Boy In Fort Bids Goodbye, A Few Weeks Short Of Its 100th Celebration

According to a report by The Times of India, the Parsi cafe, Jimmy Boy, has closed its shutters for the final time, just a few months before it could celebrate 100 years. The restaurant sat near the Horniman Circle at Fort. What brought about its sudden end in operations is the very building that housed it, Vikas Building. On June 21 this year, Jimmy Boy received a formal notice from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

This BMC notice declared Vikas Building to be at risk of collapse. BMC termed the Vikas Building ‘dangerous’. And its occupiers were directed to vacate it. And the owners, to demolish it. It happened a day after the BMC disaster control cell received a call to report the dangerous condition of the building that held Jimmy Boy. The call informed BMC that the structure was likely to fall due to its dangerous condition. The police and fire brigade rushed to the location and inspected the structure.

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The Building’s Dangerous Condition Led To Its Closure

On inspecting Vikas Building, the authorities were alarmed to witness major cracks on the east side wall. It ran vertically and weakened the structure. The cracks were located on the wall adjacent to the Green House building. The fire department instantly evacuated everyone in the entire structure and even pasted warning posters to announce that the premises were unsafe.

Jimmy Boy, that was once bustling with hungry customers, who sank their teeth into keema pav, dunked their buttery pav in Irani chai and soaked in the delight of mava cakes, today, stands vacant, empty, a few moments from being razed to the ground. With baricades set around the building to restrict access and prevent accidents, the deteriorated structure has raised concerns.

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Mumbaikars Can Get Their Baked Goods Parcelled

Nevertheless, the spirit remains untamed as Jimmy Boy sees a glimmer of hope through its Mahim outlet. A takeaway spot, Mumbaikars can parcel baked goods as well as visit Cafe Olive Green for puffs, samosas and cakes. While the team at Jimmy Boy were gearing up for its centenary celebrations, the team revealed to TOI that they see this as nothing but a speed breaker.

So, chin up, Mumbaikars, and keep your fingers crossed for fresh updates from your favourite Parsi haunt.

Cover Image Courtesy: Jimmy Boy/ Website