Candies, Pali Hill, Bandra
About
Your Friendly Guide to Candies in Bandra: Mumbai's Iconic Cafe for Good Food, Chill Vibes, and Sweet Memories
Hey! If you're in Mumbai and craving a relaxed spot where you can sit for hours with tasty food, amazing cold coffee, beautiful desserts, and a vibe that feels like home (or a cool garden party), head to Candies in Bandra. This isn't just any cafe – it's a Bandra institution loved by locals, students, families, and visitors for its cozy charm, generous portions, and that special mix of simple pleasures. Whether you're dropping in for breakfast, a quick bite, or a long afternoon hangout with friends, Candies delivers comfort and joy every time. Let's walk through everything in simple words so you can plan your visit and make the most of it.
The Story Behind Candies: A True Bandra Classic
Candies started around 25 years ago as a small kitchen and has grown into one of Bandra's most loved cafes. Run by Allan Periera, who comes from a Goan background with a family legacy in food, it began with a focus on fresh, homemade cakes and simple meals. Over time, it expanded into a full cafe with multiple outlets, becoming a pioneer in Bandra's cafe culture.
The main spot on Pali Hill feels like a charming Portuguese-style villa with artistic touches – think mosaic tiles, Turkish lamps, colorful decor, vintage posters, and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating that gives it a unique, photogenic look. It's the kind of place that attracts everyone from college students grabbing affordable snacks to families celebrating small moments or friends catching up over coffee. Candies has stayed true to its roots: good food at reasonable prices, a welcoming atmosphere, and that sense of community that makes Bandra special.
Today, there are three main outlets in Bandra West:
Pali Hill (the iconic flagship near Learners Academy School)
Union Park (opposite Petit Girls School)
Bandra Reclamation (near Lilavati Hospital, ONGC Complex)
Each has its own charm, but the Pali Hill one is often the most talked about for its garden-like seating and overall vibe. It's been a student hangout, a date spot, a family favorite, and even a place where Bollywood folks drop in quietly. In a city that changes fast, Candies feels like a steady, comforting friend.
What the Place Looks and Feels Like
Step into Candies and you'll notice the artistic, eclectic decor right away. The Pali Hill outlet stands out with its spacious layout – stairs, open areas, rooftop-ish seating, mosaic details, and a garden-party atmosphere that feels relaxed and inviting. Natural light pours in, plants add greenery, and the seating is ample so you don't feel cramped even when it's busy.
The Reclamation spot offers nice views and a different spread, while Union Park keeps things cozy. All outlets share that colorful, homey vibe with thoughtful touches like fairy lights during festivals, making it super photogenic for pictures or reels. It's air-conditioned indoors with open-air options, perfect for Mumbai's weather.
Cleanliness is good, and the staff are usually friendly, though service can be a bit slow during rush hours – which many people see as part of the laid-back charm. It's the kind of place where you can linger for hours reading, chatting, working on your laptop, or just soaking in the Bandra energy. Families with kids, groups of friends, couples, and solo visitors all feel comfortable here.
Menu Highlights: From Everyday Bites to Sweet Treats
Candies keeps the menu simple, fresh, and satisfying. Prices are reasonable (around ₹800 for two people), making it great for regular visits or students. The focus is on comfort food, European-inspired dishes, Indian touches, and of course, lots of baked goodies.
Popular Savory Picks:
Cold Coffee (famous and refreshing – many call it one of the best in Bandra)
Sandwiches (chicken sandwiches often sell out fast, chutney sandwich, club sandwiches)
Quiches (mushroom quiche is a hit)
Salads (macaroni salad gets rave reviews)
Lasagna (veg lasagna with palak is comforting)
Puffs and rolls (mutton puffs, chicken roti)
Pizzas (all-veg options with DIY choices – regular, thick, thin crust)
Other favorites: Chicken potato chops, meatballs, rice and curry dishes
Sweet Side (the real star):
Cheesecakes
Banana pudding
Blueberry cake, chocolate tart
Wide variety of pastries, cakes, and desserts – you can easily try more than one!
Viennoiserie and fresh bakes
Breakfast options, brunch plates, and mini meals make it suitable for any time of day. Vegetarian choices are plentiful, and there are non-veg options too. Portions are generous, and everything feels homemade. Special items like club burgers or seasonal promotions keep the menu interesting.
Many people come specifically for the desserts and cold coffee, then end up trying the full meal because the vibe encourages you to stay.
Why Candies Feels Special in Bandra
Bandra is full of trendy spots, but Candies stands out for its unpretentious charm. It's affordable in an area that can get expensive, has ample seating so you don't fight for tables, and the ambience is different – artsy, relaxed, and a bit nostalgic. It's a place where memories are made: first dates, group study sessions, birthday treats with cake, or quiet mornings with a book.
The community feel is strong. They host small events, keep things festive during Christmas (when it turns into a wonderland), and focus on good food, music, and conversation. In a digital age, it's refreshing to find a spot that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Visitors often say it has that "Goa-like" relaxed energy right in the middle of Mumbai.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Timings: Most outlets open around 8:30 AM and close by 10:30 PM or 11 PM. Note that many are closed on Mondays (except special days like Christmas or New Year). Always check for the specific outlet as timings can vary slightly.
Getting There:
Pali Hill: Near Learners Academy School, off Carter Road area. Best by cab/auto or walking if you're in Bandra.
Public transport: Bandra station isn't too far; then a short ride.
Parking can be limited on busy streets, so cabs or walking is easier in Bandra's narrow lanes.
Handy Tips:
Go early for breakfast or sandwiches – popular items like chicken sandwiches can finish quickly.
Weekdays are calmer; weekends get crowded but the energy is fun.
Wear comfortable clothes and carry cash/cards (they accept both).
For photos, the stairs, interiors, and outdoor areas are perfect.
Families: Kid-friendly with variety; ask about seating.
Delivery available within Bandra West, Khar, Santacruz West – useful on lazy days.
Check Instagram (@candiescafe) for updates, special menus, or events.
The place is welcoming overall, with vegetarian-friendly options and a mix of seating for different group sizes.
Different Ways to Enjoy Candies
Morning Visit: Fresh bakes, cold coffee, and sandwiches for a peaceful start.
With Friends: Share pizzas, salads, and desserts while chatting for hours.
Family Time: Kid-friendly menu, ample space, and sweet treats everyone loves.
Date or Solo: Romantic garden seating or quiet corner for some me-time.
Festive Vibes: Christmas or special occasions when decorations make it magical.
Quick Bite: Grab-and-go pastries or puffs if you're in a hurry.
Many combine it with a Bandra walk – explore Pali Hill, Carter Road promenade, or nearby cafes and shops.
Nearby Spots and Making a Full Day in Bandra
Bandra is perfect for pairing with your Candies visit. Stroll along the sea link views, visit Mount Mary Church, check out street art, or explore local boutiques and markets. Other Bandra favorites like cafes, bookstores, or beaches are close. You can easily spend half a day or more hopping around after your meal.
For different visitors:
Students: Affordable and spacious for long hangs.
Foodies: Focus on desserts and trying new menu items.
Photographers: The decor is a dream.
Families: Relaxed setting with variety.
Looking Ahead and Extra Touches
Candies keeps evolving with new menu items (like upgraded burgers or fresh pizzas) while staying true to its classic self. They offer home deliveries, catering for events, and a small gift shop at some outlets for last-minute buys. The focus remains on community, good food, and that warm Bandra spirit.
In a city full of fancy places, Candies reminds you that simple, heartfelt spots often win hearts for the long run. It's budget-friendly, photogenic, comforting, and full of character – everything you want in a neighborhood cafe.
Candies in Bandra isn't just about eating – it's about feeling at ease, making memories, and enjoying the little joys like a perfect cold coffee on a busy day or sharing cake with loved ones. Whether it's your first visit or you're a regular, it always feels special.
Plan your trip, check timings (especially the Monday closure), come hungry but ready to relax, and let Candies work its magic. Next time you're in Bandra wondering where to go for good food and great vibes, you know where to head. Eat well, sip slowly, click a few pictures, and soak in the charm. Have a sweet time – Candies is waiting to welcome you!
Quick Extra Ideas:
Try the cold coffee and a dessert combo first.
Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Follow @candiescafe on Instagram for menu updates and festive specials.
Great for gifting cakes or pastries from their bakes.
Combine with a Bandra walk for the perfect half-day plan.
Enjoy your time at Candies – it's a true Bandra gem!
Hey! If you're in Mumbai and craving a relaxed spot where you can sit for hours with tasty food, amazing cold coffee, beautiful desserts, and a vibe that feels like home (or a cool garden party), head to Candies in Bandra. This isn't just any cafe – it's a Bandra institution loved by locals, students, families, and visitors for its cozy charm, generous portions, and that special mix of simple pleasures. Whether you're dropping in for breakfast, a quick bite, or a long afternoon hangout with friends, Candies delivers comfort and joy every time. Let's walk through everything in simple words so you can plan your visit and make the most of it.
The Story Behind Candies: A True Bandra Classic
Candies started around 25 years ago as a small kitchen and has grown into one of Bandra's most loved cafes. Run by Allan Periera, who comes from a Goan background with a family legacy in food, it began with a focus on fresh, homemade cakes and simple meals. Over time, it expanded into a full cafe with multiple outlets, becoming a pioneer in Bandra's cafe culture.
The main spot on Pali Hill feels like a charming Portuguese-style villa with artistic touches – think mosaic tiles, Turkish lamps, colorful decor, vintage posters, and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating that gives it a unique, photogenic look. It's the kind of place that attracts everyone from college students grabbing affordable snacks to families celebrating small moments or friends catching up over coffee. Candies has stayed true to its roots: good food at reasonable prices, a welcoming atmosphere, and that sense of community that makes Bandra special.
Today, there are three main outlets in Bandra West:
Pali Hill (the iconic flagship near Learners Academy School)
Union Park (opposite Petit Girls School)
Bandra Reclamation (near Lilavati Hospital, ONGC Complex)
Each has its own charm, but the Pali Hill one is often the most talked about for its garden-like seating and overall vibe. It's been a student hangout, a date spot, a family favorite, and even a place where Bollywood folks drop in quietly. In a city that changes fast, Candies feels like a steady, comforting friend.
What the Place Looks and Feels Like
Step into Candies and you'll notice the artistic, eclectic decor right away. The Pali Hill outlet stands out with its spacious layout – stairs, open areas, rooftop-ish seating, mosaic details, and a garden-party atmosphere that feels relaxed and inviting. Natural light pours in, plants add greenery, and the seating is ample so you don't feel cramped even when it's busy.
The Reclamation spot offers nice views and a different spread, while Union Park keeps things cozy. All outlets share that colorful, homey vibe with thoughtful touches like fairy lights during festivals, making it super photogenic for pictures or reels. It's air-conditioned indoors with open-air options, perfect for Mumbai's weather.
Cleanliness is good, and the staff are usually friendly, though service can be a bit slow during rush hours – which many people see as part of the laid-back charm. It's the kind of place where you can linger for hours reading, chatting, working on your laptop, or just soaking in the Bandra energy. Families with kids, groups of friends, couples, and solo visitors all feel comfortable here.
Menu Highlights: From Everyday Bites to Sweet Treats
Candies keeps the menu simple, fresh, and satisfying. Prices are reasonable (around ₹800 for two people), making it great for regular visits or students. The focus is on comfort food, European-inspired dishes, Indian touches, and of course, lots of baked goodies.
Popular Savory Picks:
Cold Coffee (famous and refreshing – many call it one of the best in Bandra)
Sandwiches (chicken sandwiches often sell out fast, chutney sandwich, club sandwiches)
Quiches (mushroom quiche is a hit)
Salads (macaroni salad gets rave reviews)
Lasagna (veg lasagna with palak is comforting)
Puffs and rolls (mutton puffs, chicken roti)
Pizzas (all-veg options with DIY choices – regular, thick, thin crust)
Other favorites: Chicken potato chops, meatballs, rice and curry dishes
Sweet Side (the real star):
Cheesecakes
Banana pudding
Blueberry cake, chocolate tart
Wide variety of pastries, cakes, and desserts – you can easily try more than one!
Viennoiserie and fresh bakes
Breakfast options, brunch plates, and mini meals make it suitable for any time of day. Vegetarian choices are plentiful, and there are non-veg options too. Portions are generous, and everything feels homemade. Special items like club burgers or seasonal promotions keep the menu interesting.
Many people come specifically for the desserts and cold coffee, then end up trying the full meal because the vibe encourages you to stay.
Why Candies Feels Special in Bandra
Bandra is full of trendy spots, but Candies stands out for its unpretentious charm. It's affordable in an area that can get expensive, has ample seating so you don't fight for tables, and the ambience is different – artsy, relaxed, and a bit nostalgic. It's a place where memories are made: first dates, group study sessions, birthday treats with cake, or quiet mornings with a book.
The community feel is strong. They host small events, keep things festive during Christmas (when it turns into a wonderland), and focus on good food, music, and conversation. In a digital age, it's refreshing to find a spot that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Visitors often say it has that "Goa-like" relaxed energy right in the middle of Mumbai.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Timings: Most outlets open around 8:30 AM and close by 10:30 PM or 11 PM. Note that many are closed on Mondays (except special days like Christmas or New Year). Always check for the specific outlet as timings can vary slightly.
Getting There:
Pali Hill: Near Learners Academy School, off Carter Road area. Best by cab/auto or walking if you're in Bandra.
Public transport: Bandra station isn't too far; then a short ride.
Parking can be limited on busy streets, so cabs or walking is easier in Bandra's narrow lanes.
Handy Tips:
Go early for breakfast or sandwiches – popular items like chicken sandwiches can finish quickly.
Weekdays are calmer; weekends get crowded but the energy is fun.
Wear comfortable clothes and carry cash/cards (they accept both).
For photos, the stairs, interiors, and outdoor areas are perfect.
Families: Kid-friendly with variety; ask about seating.
Delivery available within Bandra West, Khar, Santacruz West – useful on lazy days.
Check Instagram (@candiescafe) for updates, special menus, or events.
The place is welcoming overall, with vegetarian-friendly options and a mix of seating for different group sizes.
Different Ways to Enjoy Candies
Morning Visit: Fresh bakes, cold coffee, and sandwiches for a peaceful start.
With Friends: Share pizzas, salads, and desserts while chatting for hours.
Family Time: Kid-friendly menu, ample space, and sweet treats everyone loves.
Date or Solo: Romantic garden seating or quiet corner for some me-time.
Festive Vibes: Christmas or special occasions when decorations make it magical.
Quick Bite: Grab-and-go pastries or puffs if you're in a hurry.
Many combine it with a Bandra walk – explore Pali Hill, Carter Road promenade, or nearby cafes and shops.
Nearby Spots and Making a Full Day in Bandra
Bandra is perfect for pairing with your Candies visit. Stroll along the sea link views, visit Mount Mary Church, check out street art, or explore local boutiques and markets. Other Bandra favorites like cafes, bookstores, or beaches are close. You can easily spend half a day or more hopping around after your meal.
For different visitors:
Students: Affordable and spacious for long hangs.
Foodies: Focus on desserts and trying new menu items.
Photographers: The decor is a dream.
Families: Relaxed setting with variety.
Looking Ahead and Extra Touches
Candies keeps evolving with new menu items (like upgraded burgers or fresh pizzas) while staying true to its classic self. They offer home deliveries, catering for events, and a small gift shop at some outlets for last-minute buys. The focus remains on community, good food, and that warm Bandra spirit.
In a city full of fancy places, Candies reminds you that simple, heartfelt spots often win hearts for the long run. It's budget-friendly, photogenic, comforting, and full of character – everything you want in a neighborhood cafe.
Candies in Bandra isn't just about eating – it's about feeling at ease, making memories, and enjoying the little joys like a perfect cold coffee on a busy day or sharing cake with loved ones. Whether it's your first visit or you're a regular, it always feels special.
Plan your trip, check timings (especially the Monday closure), come hungry but ready to relax, and let Candies work its magic. Next time you're in Bandra wondering where to go for good food and great vibes, you know where to head. Eat well, sip slowly, click a few pictures, and soak in the charm. Have a sweet time – Candies is waiting to welcome you!
Quick Extra Ideas:
Try the cold coffee and a dessert combo first.
Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Follow @candiescafe on Instagram for menu updates and festive specials.
Great for gifting cakes or pastries from their bakes.
Combine with a Bandra walk for the perfect half-day plan.
Enjoy your time at Candies – it's a true Bandra gem!