MUMBAI: The focus keyphrase Pali Bhavan Mumbai is now trending, thanks to an unexpected royal visit. Social media couldn’t stop buzzing after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, casually dropped Instagram Stories featuring his visit to the iconic Pali Bhavan Mumbai.
In a lovely coincident, a The Brew News team contributor was around to witness and capture the grand entry.
During his trip to India’s financial capital, Sheikh Hamdan—fondly known as Fazza—slipped into the charming lanes of Bandra West and visited this vintage gem. Located in the Queen of Mumbai Suburbs, Pali Bhavan Mumbai is famed for its regal interiors and old-world Indian charm. The prince captured the restaurant’s stunning decor in a video shared on Instagram—complete with vintage portraits of Rajasthani royalty, wooden frames, and colonial elegance.
Shortly after the royal drop-in, the restaurant returned the love on their Instagram, reposting Fazza’s video and penning an emotional thank-you. The caption revealed how the Dubai-based founder, Mishal Sanghani, had once dreamt of a visit from the prince—just not in Mumbai. “Never in my wildest dreams,” the post read, as it thanked Fazza for the honour.
Sanghani, who runs other successful ventures like Pali Café, now has a fresh story to tell—of how a Dubai prince visited his Mumbai flagship before a potential UAE outpost.
The royal visit not only lit up the internet but also sparked curiosity about whether a Pali Bhavan Dubai could soon be on the cards. With their signature dishes like Lal Maas Shank that our team tried at their restaurant, we are ready with open arms and a large appetite.
The visit
Locals around Pali Hill, Bandra noticed something was up when security teams started quietly moving in. No one really knew who was coming, but whispers started flying—it might be someone royal. And just like that, the rumours turned real. As the buzz grew stronger, word finally spread—it was none other than the Crown Prince of Dubai. For many, it felt surreal. Sheikh Hamdan, who has a huge fanbase even in Mumbai’s suburbs, had actually shown up in their neighbourhood.
Noushad Qureshi, a contributor at The Brew News, was nearby and shared how the entire vibe shifted. “People just couldn’t believe it—a royal walking into a restaurant in Bandra,” he said. “What really impressed everyone was how down-to-earth he seemed, taking time to explore the local scene.”
Qureshi also recalled a sweet moment that stole everyone’s heart. As Sheikh Hamdan’s car passed by, a street vendor named Moin waved with a hopeful smile. To his surprise, the Crown Prince smiled and waved right back. “Moin couldn’t contain his happiness,” Qureshi added. “That one gesture meant everything.”
For a brief moment, Bandra turned royal—and it’s a story locals won’t stop talking about anytime soon.
Pali Bhavan
Famous for its nostalgic Rajasthani portraits, antique mirrors, and old-world wooden furniture, the restaurant is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. And let’s talk about that menu. From crowd favourites like creamy Butter Chicken to bold coastal flavours like Allepey Fish Curry and Prawn Rechardo Masala, every dish on the list delivers an authentic taste of India.
Pali Bhavan has won over diners with its mix of comforting food, rich flavours, and warm hospitality. Regulars rave about the “cosy, vintage vibe” that makes it feel like a step back in time—without losing the charm of modern dining. It’s no surprise that many call it their favourite spot in Bandra.
