In India, cricket isn’t just a sport—it’s a season, a mood, a collective heartbeat, a force of nature. And when the ICC Cricket World Cup rolls around, we all feel like we’re playing along. And today, on the day of the semi finals, the only place to be for cricket lovers is Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. Everyone suddenly starts debating team selections, office conversations dissolve into score predictions, and every second person suddenly turns into either a cricket expert or a fortune teller. At the centre of all this devotion stands the iconic Wankhede Stadium—the ground that has witnessed historic centuries, heartbreaking losses, and that unforgettable 2011 World Cup win that still lives rent-free in every Indian cricket fan’s mind. And today, the field is all set to witness India go against England in the World Cup semi finale.
But here’s the thing about match day at Wankhede: it’s never just about what happens on the pitch. It’s about the build-up. Be it the long walk from Churchgate station in a sea of blue jerseys or the chants slowly and lovingly grow louder as you inch closer to the gates. And, most importantly, it’s about what you eat before, during, and after the game!
Because if Mumbai knows cricket, it also knows how to feed a dedicated, passionate crowd.
From iconic Irani cafés perfect for a pre-match bun maska and legendary seafood joints where you celebrate a win with bombil fry and beer, to late-night spots that absorb the collective joy (or sorrow) of fans dissecting every over, the neighbourhood of South Bombay around Wankhede transforms into its own tourist attraction.
So whether you’re heading to the stands with your face painted blue and your voice ready to give out, or you’re simply soaking in the World Cup atmosphere around the stadium, consider this your ultimate food trail around Wankhede. Because in Mumbai the real victory lap always includes a great meal.
Gaylord
First up on your trail, start with this iconic Mumbai restaurant that’s been at the heart of the city’s cultural and culinary rhythm for almost 70 years. Hence, a stop at Gaylord is almost non-negotiable on any Wankhede food trail. Just a short walk from the stadium, this Churchgate institution has been feeding South Mumbai since 1956—long before T20S, LED scoreboards, and viral match moments became a thing.
There’s something deeply comforting about stepping into its old-world dining room before a high-voltage game: the polished wood, the white tablecloths, the gentle clatter of cutlery that set the mood just right for a calm meal before the cricket storm reaches you.
Their legendary chicken à la Kyiv, buttery garlic naans with rich North-Indian curries, and classic sizzlers make for indulgent fuel before you take your seat in the stands. If you’re a chaat lover like me, you should not miss their palak pata chaat.
Their bakery section is also just as famous as the main restaurant, so be sure to pack a little treat for later. Stacked with pastries, rum balls, and old-school desserts, there’s a lot to choose from. And if that slight buzz is really what you’re craving, then the cocktail selection at Gaylord is absolutely divine—so, drink a few, save space for food, and get going.
Address: V N Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Timings: Monday to Sunday (9:30 am–12 am)
Price for two: INR 3,000
Bachelorr’s – Chowpatty (Since 1930’s)
After the Gaylord feast, it’s time for one of my personal favourite sweet treats in all of the city—strawberries and cream at Bachelorr’s.
Sitting in Chowpatty since the 1930s, this old-school juice and ice cream spot has been the city’s post-celebration ritual for the longest time. After hours of screaming in the stands at Wankhede, nothing hits quite like one of their thick milkshakes, towering sundaes, or seasonal fruit with cream.
Some delish items on the menu include the creamy mango ice cream, classic fruit and nut shakes, and freshly squeezed and mixed juice combinations. For those craving something slightly more substantial, they also offer fast-food options like burgers, indianised pizzas, and fries. There’s no pretension here—just stainless steel cups, generous scoops, and decades of loyal patrons. It’s the perfect place to decompress after a nail-biting finish or to extend the high of a big win.
Address: Sattar Sea View Hotel, 45, Ext, Chowpatty Seaface, Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400007
Timings: Monday to Sunday (1 pm–2 am)
Price for two: INR 500
Pizza By The Bay
If you’re looking for a pre- or post-match meal with a view, featuring one of Mumbai’s best pizzas with barely any distance from Wankhede, Pizza By The Bay is an easy win. Overlooking the curve of Marine Drive, this long-standing favourite combines two of Mumbai’s greatest loves—cricket and carbs. There’s something particularly cinematic about sitting by the window here, watching the Arabian Sea glimmer while match-day crowds buzz just a few minutes away at Wankhede.
Their flaming margherita pizza, infused with vodka for a slightly pungent twist is a must try. Other highlights include he Bombay masala pizza, with its spicy kick and the chicken trio pizza, with three varieties of chicken. Many also rave about their garlic bread, bolognese pasta, and very large dessert menu. My personal favourite is the cheesecakes.
In the midst of World Cup fever, Pizza By The Bay offers the perfect Mumbai experience—great views, comforting food, and just enough space to relive every six and wicket in detail.
Address: Soona Mahal, 143, Marine Dr, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Timings: Monday to Sunday (7 am–12:30 am)
Price for two: INR 2,500
Rustom & Co. Ice Cream Parlour
A match day at Wankhede deserves a sweet encore, especially when a refreshing sweet treat is the only thing that can bring your energy back. And in Mumbai, few places do nostalgia better than K. Rustom & Co. Ice Cream Parlour. Tucked in a heritage building near Churchgate, this old-school ice cream sandwich shop has been a South Mumbai ritual for generations. Here, there are no flashy sundaes or over-the-top toppings—just slabs of house-made ice cream pressed between crisp wafers and wrapped in paper, ready to be devoured on the go.
Some of their best-selling flavours include classic vanilla, chocolate chip, cherry, pista, seasonal mango and indulgent rum and raisin. The flavours are simple, creamy, and timeless, each a testament to why it ahas stood the test of time. Not to mention, this handheld, no-frills treat feels as iconic to the neighbourhood as the Wankhede stadium itself.
Address: Brabourne Stadium 86, Veer Nariman Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:30 am–11 pm)
Price for two: INR 500
Sukh Sagar
Last on your trail, and aptly so, must be Sukh Sagar, thanks to just how many things on their menu are the best in all of town. Not to mention, when you’ve been out late after the match, this is one of the few places that will still be open for you.
For something loud, fast, and unapologetically satisfying, Sukh Sagar is a classic pit stop. A South Mumbai staple for decades, this always-buzzing vegetarian joint is where hunger meets the best of Mumbai, be it cheese pav bhaji, idli with coconut chutney, classic Indian pizza, or the best casatta in all of town.
It’s casual, crowded, and gloriously chaotic—much like cricket itself. Mumbaikers love their pavs—be it samosa, vada, missal or bhaji, they consume soft bread with almost everything. And I truly can never stop raving about this very, very special spot, whenever someone mentions the words ‘pav’ and ‘bhaji,’ because it’s just that good.
Note: The sole reason why I have placed this last on this list is that the best (and only) way to experience this eatery is during an average late-night drive in the city. Sukh Sagar remains open until almost 3:00 A.M. every night, and the feeling of eating their buttery goodness at that time is incomparable. Mumbai is truly the city that never sleeps, and there isn’t an experience more on-brand than this; a sensory memory for generations of Mumbaikars.
Address: Sukh Sagar Building, Gamdevi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rd, Chowpatty, Girgaon, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400007
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10 am–2:00 am)
Price for two: INR 300
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