Mumbai Nightlife: Experience the Local Charm at Marine Drive and Chowpatty

By Dinesh Singh @travellerpath

Some say that Mumbai nightlife has lost a bit of zing after the court introduced a ban on bar girls. However, to be honest, the ban has only helped the nightlife to grow since it has erased the murk and corruption to quite an extent. Now with cleaner environment, the nightlife of the city draws a cosmopolitan crowd with tourists of all ages and cultures shaking a leg together or gulping down a few extra pegs.

Shiro, The Comedy Store, Breeze bar Powai, The Eau Bar, Hawaiian Shack, Enigma and 21 Fahrenheit Ice Lounge are some of the most popular night spots in the city. But if you are looking for something that has the local flavor, then you should head to the Marine Drive especially on a weekend night.

Saturday, some say, is the best day of the week to spend a few lazy hours during the late evening at the Marine Drive. The spot is breezy, laidback and seems in no rush. Lovers, friends and families- everybody gathers here for a quiet stroll, to eat snacks or just to sit beside the sea and whisper to its winds.

Mumbai has some good bars too where you can drink to your fulfillment. Of course, most of the restaurants too serve alcohol and you can always order a beer or rum while having your lavish dinner.

The streets are full of vendors in the evening and the city is especially known for its paw bhaji, vada pav and bhel puri.

The famous Chowpatti Beach is another recommended spot to see the best of Mumbai nightlife. The beach is sandy and spacious. You can just sit down over a mattress (which is available for hire at very cheap rates) or simply walk with your loved one, hand in hand. Though holding hands is allowed, getting too intimate may invite police intervention. As long as you are not locking lips and getting into each other’s skin, you will be fine. The beach is the hub of eateries selling the popular snacks and dishes from Mumbai. You will love every bit out here. However, on occasions, signboards are put up to warn the tourists of wading into the water when the jellyfishes are swarming around.

Juhu Beach is another exciting place and a popular cousin of Chowpatti.