RAVE REVIEWS: Bombay Borough, DIFC
by Khadija Husain
7 Dec 2024

Stepping into Bombay Borough feels like being transported to a bygone era, where colonial charm meets the warmth and vibrancy of modern India. Located in the bustling DIFC, this restaurant immediately strikes you with its opulent yet inviting design. The moment we walked through the doors, we were drawn in by the blend of plush teal sofas, striking chandeliers, and whimsical cherry blossom trees—a setting that seemed both luxurious and intimate. The attention to detail was remarkable, as though every element, from the black-and-white tiled floors to the marble-topped tables, had been thoughtfully chosen to elevate the experience. It was impossible to take our eyes off the chandeliers, their soft glow casting a warm light over the room, and the cherry blossom tree standing gracefully, adding a touch of romance to the space. This wasn’t just a restaurant; it felt like a carefully crafted scene, designed to charm and delight.
Seated at a cozy indoor table surrounded by charming knick-knacks, we couldn’t help but marvel at how the ambiance set the perfect tone for what was to come. Even the alfresco terrace beckoned, with its promise of enjoying Dubai’s cool evening air amidst such beautiful surroundings. But tonight, the indoors, with its rich Indo-chic accents, was the ideal spot to embark on our culinary journey.

The menu, a fusion of street food classics and fine dining elegance, promised an adventure—and it delivered. Our evening began with Bazaar Bites, an ode to India’s vibrant food bazaars but with a creative twist. There was something magical about watching the chefs prepare these dishes in front of us, the live cooking reminiscent of the chaotic yet exciting street stalls of India. The first dish to arrive, Bareilly’s Namkeen Chaat, was a riot of flavors—crunchy roomali crisps, tangy tamarind chutney, and the subtle sweetness of raw mango yogurt. But it was the playful addition of 1000 Kurkure potatoes and nitro-raspberry chutney that truly elevated the dish. It was the kind of plate that made you pause, savor each bite, and smile at the sheer ingenuity of it all.
Next came the Bengal Rasgulla Chaat, a dish that felt both nostalgic and new. The soft, spongy rasgulla paired with crunchy papdi and the bold flavors of mango yogurt and tamarind ghee-roasted nuts created a symphony of textures that played out on the palate. Each bite transported us further into the heart of India’s bustling Khau Gallis, but with a modern twist that spoke to Dubai’s cosmopolitan flair.

Then came the Silguri Chicken Skewers, tender and dripping in flavorsome spices. The skewers were so good, we found ourselves savoring each bite slowly, hoping the moment would last. The Harissa Paneer Roast, on the other hand, brought a delightful heat, its Indian Sankeshwar chilies providing the perfect kick. The sesame-cheese stuffing inside the paneer was creamy and rich, each mouthful a reminder of the culinary brilliance at play.
But it was the main course, the Chicken Tikka Butter Masala, that truly stole the show. A classic, yes, but one that felt reinvented in the most delightful way. The chicken, marinated in spices and roasted to perfection, was bathed in a rich, velvety Punjabi makhani sauce that was creamy without being heavy. Paired with soft, buttery naan, it was the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, leaving you feeling utterly content. Every bite was a reminder of why this dish remains a beloved staple in Indian cuisine—comforting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.

By the time dessert arrived, we thought to had experienced the best Bombay Borough had to offer—but we were wrong. The Malai Jamun was nothing short of spectacular. Watching it being prepared at our table, nitrogen gas swirling in the air, added a touch of theatre to an already indulgent meal. The golden hue of the saffron-pistachio mousse, dusted with edible gold, was almost too beautiful to eat—almost. But one bite in, and we were transported. The richness of the jamun, paired with the lightness of the mousse, was the perfect finale to an evening of culinary delights.
And then there was the service—attentive, warm, yet never intrusive. The staff seemed to anticipate our every need, but we were never rushed. It was as if they wanted us to linger, to truly savor the experience, and savor we did. The meal unfolded like a story, each course a new chapter that left us eagerly awaiting the next. There was a rhythm to the evening that felt effortless, each element falling perfectly into place.
Verdict
Dining at Bombay Borough is not just about the food; it’s about being swept up in an experience that marries the rich flavors of India’s streets with the elegance of fine dining. Every dish, every bite, tells a story—of tradition, of innovation, and of a deep love for Indian cuisine. From the breathtaking ambiance to the playful yet sophisticated dishes, Bombay Borough is a place that lingers in your mind long after the last bite. It's the kind of place that makes you want to return, not just for the food, but for the entire experience. It’s more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and creativity, and one that we will certainly return to again.
For reservations:
Call (+971) 54 995 8296
Email difc@bombayborough.ae
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 am daily.
Location: Bombay Borough is located in DIFC, Gate Village 3, next to Sotheby's,
Opposite Gate 2.
Images courtesy of Bombay Borough