Mumbai’s food lovers have a new hotspot to add to their list, and it's one crafted by Shankar Mahadevan himself. The Indian singer and Grammy-nominated composer has expanded his culinary dream with a brand-new outlet of Malgudi, his South Indian resto-cafe, now open in Chembur. Blending nostalgia, regional flavours, and a warm cafe-style vibe, Malgudi is Mahadevan's heartfelt tribute to the diverse cuisine he grew up with.
The Chembur launch marks the second Malgudi in Mumbai, following the success of its Borivali outlet. Co-founded with K. S. Ramakrishnan of Eatopia Holdings, the cafe aims to present South Indian food as a rich, layered, culturally rooted experience—far beyond the stereotype of "just dosa-idli."
More about Malgudi
For Mahadevan, Malgudi is more than a restaurant—"it's a personal mission". He has often spoken about how South India has one of the most intricate and storied culinary traditions, yet remains under-represented on the national food map. With Malgudi, he hopes diners can taste the flavours and emotions that define food from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
Inside the place
As soon as you step inside, a gentle floral aroma greets you, instantly setting a warm, comforting tone. The space blends tradition with a modern cafe aesthetic, featuring beige-brown-toned walls, colourful seating, classic South Indian artwork, warm lighting and touches of greenery that come together to create an inviting, homely atmosphere.
Shankar Mahadevan’s top 6 picks from Malgudi
During a candid chat with The Free Press Journal, Mahadevan revealed the dishes he believes every visitor must try. Here are his personal favourites:
Malgudi Picante
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Mahadevan says “must try” Malgudi Picante, a non-alcoholic beverage made with guava, pomegranate, Guntur chilli and a hint of charcoal.
Iced Kaapi with Jaggery & Ghee
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From their signature Filter Kaapi Barista lineup, the singer recommends the indulgent Iced Kaapi crafted with ghee, jaggery and vanilla ice cream. Rich, sweet, and aromatic, it’s the kind of drink that instantly wins over coffee lovers.
Mulbagal Legacy Dosa
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A showstopper on the menu, Mulbagal Legacy Dosa is based on a century-old recipe, offering a crisp, golden exterior with a pillowy-soft bite, paired with traditional chutneys.
Kaki's Sheera
Inspired by grandma’s kitchen, Kaki's Sheera is slow-roasted semolina pudding in ghee and lightly sweetened for pure nostalgic comfort, which Mahadevan urges you to try.
Ghee Podi Thatte Idli
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Singer’s another favourite, the oversized Ghee Podi Thatte Idli, arrives drenched in fragrant ghee and sprinkled generously with spicy podi.
Sri Lankan Tamil Curry with Idiyappam
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Lastly, Mahadevan asks diners not to miss Sri Lankan Tamil Curry with Idiyappam. The flavour-packed curry offers bold spices and coconut richness, paired with soft, delicate idiyappam (string hoppers made from rice flour).
What else can you explore at Malgudi?
While the top six are Mahadevan-approved, the wider menu offers plenty to fall in love with. Popular recommendations include the Benne Dosa, based on a century-old heirloom recipe, South Khow Suey, and playful plates like Anna-Style Lotus Root and Butter Pepper Garlic Water Chestnut.
All dishes are made in-house with seasonal, locally sourced produce, and the cafe caters thoughtfully to Jain and vegan diners.
No South Indian cafe is complete without standout coffee, and Malgudi takes that seriously with a Live Filter Kaapi Barista. Brewing fresh blends from Chikmagalur beans, alongside jaggery lattes and South-inspired mocktails, it offers many options to sip on.
Where: Ground and First Floor, Inner Circle, 54, Sindhi Society, Chembur, Mumbai
When: 11 am – 11 pm
Cost: ₹1800 for two people
