This storied 644-key Colaba property is a Mumbai institution, and a tourist attraction in and of itself – its gilded lobby likely has the footfall of a train station. But this is a landmark hotel that’s cherished among locals. It is the Taj's ethos, per its late owner’s wishes, to actively welcome people from every walk of life that garners most respect.

Among foodies, Gauri Devidayal is a modern Bombay legend; her Colaba restaurant, The Table, was an instant hit among bread and pastry obsessives – and has since stayed booked and busy – especially for dinner. Sister café, the more informal Mag St, is the place to go for comfort food and catch-ups; everything from sandwiches and hefty salads to burgers and pasta. 

An omakase of black cod miso, white fish carpaccio and a ebi tempura, a Sakuranbo chocolate tart to finish. It's just about perfection. 

This modern Colaba gallery is one of the country’s best. Curated by two sisters, against a majestic backdrop of the Gateway of India, Jhaveri promotes original artists (no matter their nationality, gender or generation) whose work is guided by South Asian culture or tradition. Expect some luminary talent – they produced, for example, Anish Kapoor’s very first public exhibition in India, back in 2010 – as well as a future-facing approach to Indian art.