Lucky Restaurant Bandra: A Journey Through Time, Taste, and Tradition

Lucky Restaurant, a culinary landmark nestled in the heart of Mumbai's Bandra  has a history as rich and diverse as its flavors. Established on September 9, 1938, by Syed Ali Akbar, this iconic eatery has been serving delectable dishes and weaving memorable stories for generations.

Syed Ali Akbar, an immigrant from Iran, arrived in Bombay in 1912 and initially owned a restaurant named Bombay Restaurant in Bandra Bazaar. However, fate had other plans when he stumbled upon the building that would become Lucky Restaurant. It was a time when the bustling city of Bandra had yet to embrace the concept of car showrooms, making the spot an unconventional choice for a restaurant. With a vision and determination, Syed Ali Akbar transformed the space, replacing an underperforming motor showroom with the warmth and aroma of Lucky Restaurant.

The early days of Lucky Restaurant were marked by a simple menu, featuring essentials such as Biryani, Kheema pav, mutton chops, vegetables, dal, coffee, and chai. Additionally, an Irani store operated alongside, offering everything from medicines to daily provisions. At the heart of the restaurant's success was its dedication to quality, embodied by Syed Ali Akbar's commitment to perfection. The restaurant's doors would open as early as 5 am to cater to the needs of mill workers, who started their shifts at 6 am.

As years passed, Lucky Restaurant adapted and thrived. The menu expanded to over a hundred dishes, including not only the famed Biryani but also a fusion of Chinese and Indian coastal cuisines. The story of Lucky Restaurant is incomplete without acknowledging the efforts of Sayed Safar Ali, who began his journey at the restaurant at the tender age of 10. With a foundation built on passion and perseverance, Lucky Restaurant evolved with the changing times.

The restaurant's legacy carries cherished memories, from serving soldiers during World War II to witnessing the post-independence shift in dining culture. The introduction of tandoori chicken, inspired by neighboring establishments, reflected the evolving tastes and preferences of its patrons.

Generational transitions brought new ideas and innovations. Syed Safar Ali's son, Mohsen, joined the ranks at the age of 15, introducing modernizations such as air-conditioned sections, new crockery, uniforms, and furniture. Collaborating with his father, Mohsen's contributions propelled Lucky Restaurant into the contemporary era.

The true essence of Lucky Restaurant lies in its signature biryanis, meticulously crafted over decades. Syed Ali Akbar's dedication to perfection and flavor is evident in every grain. The distinct aroma of masalas, followed by an explosion of taste, forms the hallmark of their biryanis. The restaurant's culinary journey extends to preparing approximately 200 kg of chicken and 20 kg of mutton daily, a testament to the enduring demand for their exquisite offerings.

Amidst historical moments and challenges, Lucky Restaurant stood resilient. The establishment's location on a prominent junction granted it the privilege of witnessing dignitaries like the Pope and Mahatma Gandhi passing by. The memories of the 1947 riots, the cyclone of 1948, and the 2005 deluge remain etched in their history, reflecting the restaurant's unwavering commitment to its community.

Over the years, Lucky Restaurant has adapted and expanded, branching out to Goregaon in 2010. However, the essence of Lucky Restaurant remains rooted in Bandra, a testament to its unwavering dedication to quality, taste, and tradition

Lucky Restaurant's story is a fusion of flavors, cultures, and experiences that have shaped the culinary landscape of Mumbai. From its humble beginnings as a simple eatery to its present-day status as a cultural icon, Lucky Restaurant's journey symbolizes the enduring spirit of innovation and authenticity. As the restaurant continues to evolve, its commitment to delivering exceptional flavors and unforgettable memories remains as strong as ever.

Lucky Restaurant Address: 9, Hill Road, Swami Vivekananda Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Indian Food Times Reviews: 4.5/5