31 March,2016 08:39 AM IST | | Suprita Mitter and Dipanjan Sinha
In the concluding part of the series, Suprita Mitter and Dipanjan Sinha scour South and Central Mumbai to find seven standout picks that will quench your summer thirst
Mango Juice
The most popular drink at this fast food joint, which has been a Chowpatty landmark since 1962, changes according to season, a staffer told us. When we visited after 11 pm on a week day, the place was packed. The flavour of the season happens to be Mango (Rs 160) and we promptly ordered one, to pass our own verdict. The drink, which was served to us in a jiffy, was refreshing, filling and delicious. The eatery also offers milkshake and snack options.
Time: 10 am to 11.30 pm
At: 45, Chowpatty Sea Face, Marine Drive, opposite. Thackers, Girgaum Chowpatty.
Call: 23679614
Ganga Sagar, Parel
Mosambi Juice
This joint in the corporate hub caters to office goers as the go-to-place for a chat over juice or simply for a quick refresher after or between work. The Mosambi (Rs 60) is in demand along with the quintessential Nimbu Paani (Rs 10). Watermelon (Rs 40) is the other popular order.
Time: 12 noon to midnight
At: Fatima Mansion, Jeejeebhoy Lane, Dr SS Rao Road, Lal Baug, Gundecha Garden, Parel.
Bachelorr's, Girgaum
Pic/Datta Kumbhar
Most Mumbaikars are familiar with the haunt that serves ice cream sundaes, snacks, milkshakes and juices. Started in the 1930's, Bachelorr's is popular among party-goers looking for a late night binge. The Strawberry juice (Rs 189) here is so popular that Bachelorr's had run out of strawberries when we landed up one morning. We had to pay a second visit to sample the delicious, seasonal fare. Totally worth the effort.
Time: 11.30 am to 1.30 am
At: 45, Chowpatty Sea Face, Marine Drive, oppsite Thackers, Girgaum Chowpatty.
Call: 23682211
Haji Ali Juice Centre
Pic/Bipin Kokate
The large board of the Haji Ali Juice Centre can be spotted from a distance. Started in the 1960s by Fareed Noorani, it is today as much a landmark as the shrine of Haji Ali and the Arabian Sea that it overlooks. Popular with both tourists and locals, the place is best known for its strawberry cream (strawberries served with fresh whipped cream). This is also served with other seasonal fruits. When we visited the centre, we asked them to recommend the most popular juice from the enormous list. When the red and orange Triveni (Rs 245) arrived, many heads turned. A mix of kiwi, mango and strawberry, this work of art is a delight and is certain to fill you up.
Time: 5 am to 2 am
At: Lala Lajpatrai Road, Worli.
Call: 23517632
Health, Matunga
Boom, a mosambi, lemon and khus drink
On a hot afternoon, we chose to sip on Boom (Rs 100), a mix of mosambi, lemon and khus. It was perfect for the weather and is among the most popular juices this season at the King's Circle joint. "People come here to try new things. We experiment with combinations every week. The Mango Punch (R130) which has raw mango, fresh mango and some vanilla is also a summer favourite," says owner Vilas Dongre. "When we started, exotic fruits like kiwi, dragonfruit, prune and avacado were not available here. Today, we can introduce additional flavours with these fruits," he says.
Time: 11 am to 1 am
At: Stall No. 3 & 4, Kings Circle, near Maheshwari Udyan, Matunga (E).
Call: 09820617777
Sai, Matunga
Fresh Lime
For professors and students of the neighbouring Ruia, Poddar and Welingkar colleges, and cricket enthusiasts who come to Matunga Gymkhana, the Fresh Lime (Rs 10) at Sai Juice centre has always been the drink to have. If you don't mind a pink drink, the Rose Lime (Rs 20), a mix of rose syrup and lime juice is equally yummy. Another best-seller is the Cold Coffee (Rs 40), with a price that has jumped over the years (still pocket-friendly), the taste remains the best though.
Time: 8.30 am to 9 pm (Sundays closed)
At: Beside Ghanshyam Sports, near Ruia College, Matunga (CR).
Parag, Dadar TT
This one opens in the evening and remains a darling of the nocturnal Mumbaikar. At Dadar TT, this joint is always thronged by the thirsty. The hot favourite here is the absolutely yummy Strawberry Orange (Rs 100) that does not use any water. The other favourites are Anar (Rs 100) and Pineapple (Rs 60).
Strawberry Orange juice
Time: 6 pm to 1.30 am
At: A1, Empress Mahal, near Tilak Bridge, Dadar (E).
Call: 9224245578
