Sassanian: Bombay nu Parsi Jadoo, Jema Soul aur Swad Bashe
Mumbai, the city of dreams, is also the city of foodies. Among its countless eateries lies Sassanian, one of the oldest Irani cafes in town, serving foodies since 1913. Located near Marine Lines and Dhobi Talao, this place is much more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. So, grab your chai and bun maska as we take a deep dive into this iconic gem.
Shuaieb Khan
1/27/20253 min read


Arrey dikra, if you haven’t been to Sassanian Boulangerie, toh kya kiya life mein? This gem of an Irani café has been serving Bombay since 1913—yes, over a hundred years, boss! Located at Dhobi Talao near Marine Lines, it’s not just an eatery; it’s a time machine. Step in, and you’re transported to a bygone era, where the chai is kadak, the bun maska is buttery, and the Bawas are still ruling the food game.
Sit tight, bawa, because we’re diving deep into what makes Sassanian a must-visit spot for every Bombay-lover.
The Moment You Walk In: Vintage Bawa Vibes
Sassanian is not like your fancy-shmancy modern cafes with Wi-Fi and hip playlists. Nai nai, this place is pura old-school, dikra. The moment you enter, the wooden chairs, marble tabletops, and vintage mirrors greet you like an old friend. The high ceilings and the slow-moving fans? Arrey, it’s like walking into the 1920s.
It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours with chai and contemplate life—or just gossip like the aunties. And the best part? No one will ask you to leave, because Bawas believe in “Khud khaao, aur dusro ko bhi khaane do.”
The Khaana: Food That’s Full of Love
Now, dikra, let’s talk about the hero of Sassanian—the food. Parsi food is like your favorite bawa uncle: comforting, full of personality, and with a little bit of spice. Sassanian’s menu is a mix of Irani, Parsi, and Bombay classics. Whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, or just a quick snack, you’ll leave saying, “Kya baat hai, yaar!”
Here’s What You Can’t Miss:
Bun Maska aur Chai: This combo is pure magic. The bun is so soft, it feels like a cloud kissed with butter. Dip it in their kadak chai, and you’ll be like, “Arrey, kahaan chhupa tha yeh taste?”
Keema Pav: Spicy, flavorful minced meat served with soft pav. One bite and you’ll be ready to sing, “Maro dikro, su khaataru banavyu!”
Dhansak with Brown Rice: This is Parsi comfort food at its best. The lentil curry is rich, flavorful, and perfect for when you want to feel ghar-jaisa sukoon.
Patra ni Machhi: Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves with a coconut chutney marinade. This dish screams, “Classic Parsi goodness!”
Egg Akuri: Think of it as spicy scrambled eggs with a Parsi twist. Paired with pav, it’s a perfect breakfast or light lunch.
Laganu Custard: This dessert is as sweet as a Parsi grandma’s blessings. It’s creamy, caramel-y, and oh-so-satisfying.
And don’t forget the Raspberry Soda—it’s the ultimate throwback drink that no fancy fusion café can replicate.
The Ambience: Slow Down, Dikra
Sassanian isn’t just a café; it’s a vibe. The staff here are old-school too—polite, but they won’t tolerate any nakhras. They’ll serve you with a smile, but don’t expect them to entertain your Instagram stories. This is the kind of place where you come to disconnect from the world and connect with your food.
The regular crowd is a mix of everyone—from Bawa uncles discussing cricket to college kids munching on brun maska. It’s a melting pot of stories, just like Bombay itself.
Why Bawas Swear By It
Ask any Parsi in Bombay, and they’ll tell you, “Arrey, Sassanian toh maara jawani ka adda che!” The café isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. Generations have come here to celebrate, mourn, or just chill with friends over chai. It’s a place that feels like home, even if you’re visiting for the first time.
Pocket-Friendly Bawa Feast
Arrey dikra, Sassanian won’t burn a hole in your pocket. For just ₹200-400, you can eat like a king. A proper meal here costs less than those overpriced coffees you get at those angrezi cafés. Sassanian believes in giving you value for money, just like your thrifty bawa dadi.
The Good, The Quirky, and The Real
No place is perfect, and Sassanian has its quirks. The service can be slow during peak hours, and some dishes might feel a bit too old-school for today’s tik-tok generation. But hey, that’s the charm of an Irani café. It’s not about rushing; it’s about soaking in the experience.
Sassanian: More Than a Café, It’s an Emotion
For over a century, Sassanian has stood as a testament to Bombay’s rich culinary history. It’s a place where food meets nostalgia, where every bite tells a story, and where you leave with more than just a full stomach—you leave with memories.
In one of my earlier blogs, I mentioned that many Parsi restaurants are sadly losing their charm, but Sassanian is the exception. It’s a beautiful throwback to the old days, one that continues to thrive and preserve the essence of Parsi food in the heart of Bombay.
So, bawa, next time you’re in town, don’t miss Sassanian. Come for the bun maska, stay for the heritage, and leave saying, “Jiyo dikra, jiyo!”
Chalo, bolo—Sassanian chalo, chai peene ka time ho gaya!













