How Mumbai’s cafés are welcoming companions with paws

In an urban landscape defined by its pace and density, finding thoughtfully designed spaces that cater to both discerning diners and their four-legged companions remains a rarity. Yet, across Mumbai, a quiet transformation is taking place. A new wave of cafés and restaurants is embracing a more inclusive vision of hospitality—one that extends beyond the plate to acknowledge the presence of pets as part of modern city living. Whether it’s a gelato bar in Bandra, a brasserie in BKC that boasts of a curated dog menu, or sun-drenched patios tucked into Colaba’s bylanes, these establishments are reimagining what it means to be truly welcoming. They offer more than just pet access; they offer a considered experience—for both the guest and the companion at their feet.

NOVA Artisan Gelato, Bandra 

One of the few artisanal gelato bars in the city to quietly welcome pets, Nova Artisan Gelato in Bandra offers a rare blend of indulgence and inclusivity. Founded by Simran Advani, the 200 sq. ft. space is wrapped in coral pink and brushed steel, echoing the precision behind each small-batch creation. The menu features 14 rotating flavours—including a Bandra-exclusive toasted croissant gelato, vegan raspberry sorbet, and dark chocolate sea salt—alongside bonbon affogatos, frozen bites, Nandan-sourced coffee, and savouries by Pastel. While not a pet café in the traditional sense, Nova allows leashed pets, making it an ideal stop for those looking to enjoy a quiet treat without leaving their companion behind.

SAZ American Brasserie, BKC

Modern brasserie charm meets pet-friendly vibes at SAZ, where furry companions aren’t just welcome—they have their own menu. In collaboration with Heads Up For Tails, the restaurant has launched a dedicated Pet Menu that brings together clean, pet-safe ingredients and playful names. Think “I Chews You” chicken stew, the Ruff & Tuff buff bowl with steamed rice and broccoli, and even a daily-rotating prebiotic ice cream for dogs. The space itself—housed inside Jio World Drive—offers ample room for your furry friend to lounge while you savour craft cocktails and wood-fired plates. With dishes starting at ₹125, SAZ isn’t just pet-friendly—it’s pet-forward, making it one of the city’s few elevated dining destinations that truly caters to both ends of the leash.

Zane’s Café, Lower Parel

In the heart of Lower Parel’s creative corridor, Zane’s Café offers more than just a caffeine fix—it offers a pause, a presence, and a place where pets are not only allowed, but quietly celebrated. With sunlit corners, leash-friendly seating, and water bowls set out with intention, Zane’s reimagines the modern coffee ritual to include your furry companions. The menu is equally considered, featuring slow-steeped cold brews, jaggery-laced cold coffees, and house specials like the fizzy cold brew x Pallonji’s—all served with warmth. Here, every detail, from the matte ceramics to the mellow playlists, is curated for calm. And whether you're sketching between sips or simply watching the day go by with your dog at your feet, Zane’s makes space for stillness, and for those who share it with you.

Noa by The Nutcracker, Bandra West

An elegant offshoot of the beloved Nutcracker chain, Noa blends laid-back charm with refined simplicity—and yes, it’s pet-friendly. The café’s breezy, sun-drenched patio along Linking Road welcomes leashed companions, making it an ideal brunch spot for you and your furry plus-one. From tofu banh mi and sourdough bagels to velvety matcha lattes and cold brews, Noa’s all-day menu is as thoughtful as its mood. It's light, fresh, and designed with every dietary preference in mind.

Mag St., Colaba

Tucked away on a leafy corner of Mandlik Road, Mag St. Colaba brings together laid-back elegance, global comfort fare, and a rare pet-friendly outdoor setting in the heart of South Mumbai. Whether you're tucking into a lobster roll, a grain bowl, or one of their signature pizzas, the vibe remains effortlessly cool, with space for your furry companions to lounge right beside you. The al fresco area is a particular draw for pet parents, offering a lot of room to stretch out post-walks or during easy weekend brunches. Add to that an in-house bakery serving pillowy cruffins and buttery croissants, and Mag St. becomes more than just a restaurant.

Flurys, Colaba

Bringing a slice of Kolkata’s iconic legacy to Mumbai, Flurys Tearoom in Colaba offers its beloved English breakfasts, pastries, and old-world charm just steps away from the Gateway of India. With its charming sea-facing outdoor seating and warm pastel interiors, it’s an inviting spot for a leisurely bite—and yes, it’s pet-friendly too. Whether you’re settling in for a classic rum ball or a quick coffee with your furry companion by your side, Flurys’ first Mumbai outpost blends heritage with relaxed, coastal café culture.

Frozen Fun Gelato & Café, Bandra West

Tucked away in a quiet Pali Hill lane, Frozen Fun Gelato & Café is where dreamy interiors meet indulgent escapes—made even better with a warm welcome for your four-legged companions. Founded by Vasuki Punj and Italian gelato chef Davide Passarella, the café brings a playful spin to the classics: think creamy gelatos nestled in warm brioche buns, Turkish eggs layered with whipped yoghurt, and dessert-for-breakfast that feels entirely earned. With its floral-draped ceilings, pastel palettes, and a leafy alfresco section that’s pet-friendly, it’s the kind of spot where dogs lounge under dappled light, while their humans linger over one more espresso or a scoop of Sicilian pistachio. 

Because sometimes joy doesn’t come in solo servings—it comes with muddy paws, lingering gazes, and moments made better simply because they’re shared. In opening their doors to four-legged guests, these cafés and restaurants are rewriting what hospitality can feel like: inclusive, gentle, and aware that love often walks on four legs. So the next time you head out for a coffee, a cocktail, or a croissant, don’t leave your plus-one behind. Mumbai, it turns out, is learning how to dine with heart—and a wagging tail.

Lead image: Getty 

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