Beyond booze and music: Hit these clubs to witness the cool nightlife of Mumbai

‘Let's go clubbing tonight' is a common phrase for most young Mumbaikars. The first thing that pops up in our mind at the thought of clubbing is a late-night plan that involves booze and music. Nightlife of Mumbai however transcends the usual.

Although clubbing as an activity is undoubtedly incomplete without drinks, music and dance, the nightclubs in the city are weaving in multiple other factors that make Mumbai's nightlife an immersive experience rather than just another recreational activity.

An eclectic mix of music, specially crafted cocktails, premium menus, diverse crowds and creative events all makeup for the modern clubbing scenes in Mumbai. Diversification of venues is one of the most noticeable shifts in the clubbing scenes of Mumbai. The city has seen a rise in the number of lounges, rooftop bars, and thematic venues.

"Nightclubs and nightlife in Mumbai have evolved to focus more on experiences. There is a noticeable shift from merely providing a space for drinking and dancing to creating holistic experiences. Venues are now more focused on curating unique atmospheres, offering signature cocktails, and hosting special events to enhance the overall experience for patrons," says Alexandre Renoue, beverage manager at AER, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

Seconding to this, Sonali Mullick, head of operations and mixologist at Hitchki Resto-Bar, Mumbai says, "The venues have incorporated cultural and artistic elements, hosting events that go beyond music. This includes art exhibitions, live performances, and collaborations with local artists, adding a multidimensional aspect to the nightlife experience. Mumbai's nightlife has been influenced by global trends in music, fashion, and entertainment. International DJs and artists frequently perform in the city, contributing to a more cosmopolitan and globalised nightlife scene."

According to Vardhaman Choksi, founder of Escobar: Tapas Bar and Fine Dine Restaurant, social media's influence has been transformative, shaping trends and driving popularity in unprecedented ways. "We're also seeing a trend in daytime and sunset parties, expanding the concept of nightlife beyond traditional hours. The integration of health and wellness trends, with offerings like non-alcoholic beverages and organic snacks, aligns with the growing health consciousness of our patrons."

In a noteworthy transformation, particularly in the realm of bars and nightclubs, Sunny Sara co-founder, The Ribbon Room Bar and Tequileria observes, "There has been a significant shift in the overarching bar culture, blurring the lines between what constitutes a bar and a nightclub. The trend often begins with an establishment functioning as a bar and gradually turns into a high-energy nightclub. Over the past two decades, I have observed substantial growth in the nightclub industry. Initially, there were only a handful of places embracing the nightclub culture, but this landscape has evolved significantly. Presently, one can find a nightclub or a bar every few kilometres, indicative of the changing preferences and demands of the audience. The demographic enjoying these experiences spans from 22 to 50 years old, showcasing a broader and more diverse audience compared to earlier times."

Whether you are new in the city or not, if you wish to explore this side of Mumbai, we have prepared a curated list of city clubs that offer a mix of everything to cater to the diverse crowds having a diverse range of interests.

Aer by Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

Located on the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel in South Mumbai, Aer is a rooftop bar that creates a sophisticated and relaxed ambience offering a break from the typical office environment.

AER offers an array of small plates and sharing platters to complement craft cocktails, featuring inventive twists on truffles, mezze, tacos, and exquisite seafood. Innovations such as the deconstructed burrata, sliders crafted from green bananas, and imam bayildi wraps featuring eggplant and pure artistry cater to Jains, vegans, and vegetarians alike, ensuring universal delight. "I curated AER's menu while drawing inspiration from these ever-changing skies. This yacht club theme of AER extends to the menu with dishes and drinks that evoke the spirit of sailing," says Alexandre Renoue, Beverage Manager at AER.

From a wide collection of cocktails like Cumulus, Thunderheads and Mariner's Brew Voyage to non-alcoholic drinks like Zephyr, Blue Sapphire Horizon, and Charged Skyline, this rooftop bar has something for every palette.

The music selection is carefully curated to match the mood of the evening. From the DJ's take on Trance to Deep House beats, the tunes here are always on point, setting the perfect rhythm for the night.

AER also hosts diverse curated experiences. On the evening of November 30, AER is set to play host to an exclusive affair from 7 pm onwards, dedicated to the iconic herbal liqueur, Jägermeister. This soirée promises a boasting array of meticulously crafted Jägermeister-infused cocktails and delectable culinary creations.

Other details
Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Worli
Time: 5:30 pm to 1:30 am.
Tables are available in three seatings from 5:00 pm to 7:15 pm; 7:30 pm to 09:45 pm; and 10:00 pm onwards.
Cover charge: Rs 4000 plus taxes per person after 10 pm on Friday and Saturday.

The Ribbon Room Bar and Tequileria

Nestled in Hotel Sea Princess, Juhu, this bar is strategically divided into two levels, with Level 1 dedicated to a sophisticated atmosphere suitable for corporate clientele. Here, the bar is thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming ambience, striking a balance between a lively and relaxed environment. On Level 1, the music is intentionally kept at a volume that allows for conversation and enjoyment without the overwhelming intensity found in traditional nightclub settings. Guests can still groove to the music, creating a vibrant but not overpowering backdrop to their evening. The shift in atmosphere typically unfolds around 10 pm, transitioning to Level 2, where The Ribbon Room transforms into an enchanting nightclub setting.

The menu is crafted with a focus on diverse and special dishes, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. It mostly serves Asian cuisine and is designed to provide a unique experience for those seeking a delightful combination of flavours in a social setting. For the health-conscious patrons, they have curated a selection of dishes - The Gomae Salad, served in modest portions, provides a refreshing and light option and Avocado Carpaccio is a nutritious delight, particularly cherished by the vegetarian guests.

As for cocktails, a few must-try on the menu include Give Into The Guava, Hot and Bothered, and Floored by Flora. For non-drinkers with a penchant for refreshing alternatives, mocktails and coolers like Ribbon Revelry, and Pluck Me Not are a must-try.

Other details:
Location: Hotel Sea Princess, Juhu
Time: 10 pm - 3 am
Cover charge: Rs 2, 500 per APC (average per cover)

YOUnion


For those who love to dance to the beats of Bollywood hits, YOUnion is the place to be. The club starts with commercials and hip-hop music progressing towards Bollywood night late into the night.

The place serves premium meals in tapas style to enable guests to try a variety of options and not be completely full at the same time. It serves dishes such as stir-fried broccoli and water chestnut which is a favorite along with pizzas and burgers to go with the beer buckets they have on offer. They also serve Indo-Chinese options like Paneer Chilli and Schezwan Chicken Lollipop. Additionally, for the health-conscious patrons they serve a range of salads as well as a bento box that includes a portion-controlled meal providing the needed nutrition as well as taste.

Speaking of cocktails, one can try their Cinder-frickin-rella, Metropolitan Royalty, and Tropical Stimulation.

Other details:
Location: Kamla Mills, Lower Parel
Time: 12 noon - 1:30 am
Cover charge: NA

Hitchki

Another resto-bar that regularly conducts Bollywood nights post 9:30 pm, Hitchki is a go-to place for many office goers after a tiring day at work, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Hitchki is known for its unconventional and nostalgic ambience. The restaurant often incorporates elements of pop culture, quirky decor, and references to childhood memories, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.

Hitchki hosts themed events or nights, adding an extra layer of entertainment and engagement for customers. This includes special music nights, themed parties, and other IP events like Purane Din (every Tuesday, where the entire menu is 50 per cent off), Bollywood nights, Taco Bout Tequila Thursdays, and more. that go beyond the typical dining experience. Its latest upcoming DJ event is scheduled to take place on December 8 and will be graced by the presence of DJ Suketu.

With regard to the food menu, the dishes here have rather quirky names. The food menu is resplendent with a diversity of culinary treats from regional Indian and popular international cuisines. Some of these include Hitchki Dosa Poppers, Chicken Khurana, Tiger Jhinga Hai, and Khari Truffle Mushroom. Cocktail lovers can sip on Dum Maro Dum, Smokehattan, and Hangover Liit.

Other details:
Location: Across Mumbai, Bangalore and Nagpur outlets
Time: 12 noon to 1 am
Pricing: Rs 2000 - 2500 for two people

Escobar


Located in Bandra, the music at Escobar is carefully selected each day of the week to enhance the dining atmosphere, aligning with the restaurant's vibe and luxurious setting. On the weekends, resident DJs enchant the guests with Electro Ethnic Rhythms, Deep House and Bollywood hits. Spanning 7,000 sq ft, this rooftop fine-dine and tapas bar boasts one of the longest bars in the country at 90 ft, overlooking the eclectic cityscape of Bandra. The menu of Escobar includes a mix of Middle Eastern, Thai, Mediterranean, Italian, and other Asian cuisines.

Their cocktails are a blend of Mediterranean and Latin American inspirations. Some of the cocktails you can try here include Esco Surge, Hibiscus Ginger Fusion, Enigmatic Smoke, Sunlit Shores, and Siam Elixir. For non-drinkers, Escobar also serves a mix of flavourful mocktails like Chocolate Strawberry Margarita, Grapefruit Thyme, Golden Glow Water, and Sparkling Pineapple Mojito.

Other details:
Location: Linking Rd, Bandra West
Time: Monday - Sunday 7 pm onwards
Pricing: 3,000 for two people with alcohol

DIVE.

Located in BKC and Kalaghoda, DIVE. is especially popular among corporate professionals. DIVE. is a bar and casual dining place that offers a unique experience in a pocket-friendly way. Those wanting to dance their heart out can enjoy a mix of commercial, Bollywood and EDM tracks. DIVE. also hosts various events ranging from DJ events to live bands. Their in-house DJ performs almost every night. Further, they have a special Bollywood Night every Sunday at Kalaghoda DIVE.

In food, one can relish North Indian dishes like the spicy Paneer Angara Tikka to Tandoori Prawns, desi Asian delights, including a slew of Momo preparations, Schezwan Chicken Lollipop and Chicken 65. Lastly, DIVE. also serves Khichdis in five different varieties to comfort the soul.

Their cocktail specialties include Limey Hypnotic, Cranberry Laced Wicked X, Hawaiian Junkie, Blue Tranquiliser, and Coke Tripper. Those wanting to try out their mocktails or coolers can sip on Mandarin Mojito, New York Apple, Miami Watermelon, and Energy Punch.

Other details:
Location: BKC and Kalaghoda
Time: 12 noon to 1:30 am
Pricing: Rs 1300 for two people including alcohol

One 8 Commune


For those who are not into loud music but enjoy social dinners, One 8 Commune is a perfect place. This multi-cuisine restaurant plays commercial music throughout with occasional events on special days like Christmas.

One 8 Commune serves a mix of Indian, Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisine. "The menu here is crafted based on many factors like geographical location, food habits of the people, availability of ingredients, and seasonal availability of vegetables," says Chef Agnibh Mudi, corporate chef at the restaurant. Their special dishes include Avocado Tartare, Avocado Truffle Bites, Kathal ki Galouti, Spaghetti Truffle Mushroom, flatbreads and Singapore Curry.

Some of the cocktails that one can try here are Rum Julep Punch, Chocolate Blanc Punch, and Mango Vino. For mocktails, head mixologist, Neeraj Sharma suggests Cucumber fizz and a collection of Berry Commune mocktails.

Other details:
Location: Juhu
Time: 12 noon - 4 m (Lunch), 7 pm - 12 midnight
Price - Rs 3500 for two people

Kitty Su, The LaLit Mumbai


What makes Kitty Su stand out from the rest of the nightclubs in Mumbai is that it provides an opportunity for artists inclusive of the LGBTQIA+ community who perform drag. It proudly calls itself an ‘all-inclusive' safe space for all.

Apart from drag events, Kitty Su also hosts corporate events, stand-up comedy nights, and special events that include pre-Diwali parties, pre-Christmas parties and other events like birthdays, anniversaries etc. The club also collaborates with fresh talents - singers, performers, and artists of all genres to perform live. This not only keeps the patrons entertained but also helps the young artists to gain the right visibility.

Some of the upcoming events lined up include #purelove night hosted by LUNA on December 9 followed by the Christmas Eve #purelove night being hosted on December 24 by Haus Of Rage and Akbar Sami live on December 29.

Vishal Dudeja, marketing and communications manager, The LaLit Mumbai says, "The club that opens at 10 pm takes customers back to ancient Indian due to its interiors. It uses earthy shades, dark wooden floors, and evocative sculptures from Khajuraho depicting scenes from the temple to take one back in time."

Other Details:
Location: The LaLit Mumbai, Airport Rd, Andheri East
Time: 10 pm onwards
Pricing: Rs 1000 plus upwards for SOLO

While all these clubs ensure a fun-filled night, they do have certain basic yet key restrictions and dress codes in place. These nightclubs insist on carrying ID proofs, urge customers to refrain from over-indulgence and follow an appropriate dress code that involves wearing smart casuals. An added tip provided by these spots is to always arrange for transport back home if one plans to consume alcohol as a safety measure.