Grab your umbrellas, it's time to find the perfect spot to enjoy Mumbai rains

If you're the type that hums 'Bombay meri jaan' each time it rains or have fond memories of drinking garam chai at Marine Drive or Juhu Beach, then you've definitely been waiting for the monsoons to kick off in this city. While the floods routinely put a damper (get it?) on the season, it's always fun to find moments to splash around in puddles, then find cutting chai. So, this season, we've compiled a list of places you can (safely) visit to spend time with the perfect accompaniment to monsoon: hot food, along with a side of the gorgeous view of Mumbai rains.

Pizza by the Bay
It's practically impossible to mention the words 'sea' and 'view' in this city and not immediately hear someone talk about Pizza by the Bay. Originally called Jazz by the Bay, this iconic restaurant has been the home to many first dates—and with good reason. Go for the view, stay for the pizza.
Address: 143, Marine Drive, Churchgate.
Cost: Rs 2,000 (for two)

Gaylord
If you look up the word 'bakery' in a dictionary, there's a photo of Gaylord's right there. Instead of fact-checking us on that, go visit this epochal bakery for hot coffee and danish pastry while watching the rains beat down on the wide Colaba roads outside.
Address: Mayfair Building, Marine Drive, Churchgate.
Cost: Rs 2,000 (for two)

Dome Intercontinental
If you ask someone from South Bombay where they'd find the best sea view, chances are, they'd say Dome Intercontinental (after talking about Marine Drive). But along with the admittedly magnificent view of the sea, you can also enjoy treats like mushroom sushi there. Beware of the price point, however; in fact, we'd suggest going for a relaxing cocktail hour to enjoy a rainy sunset instead of an entire meal.
Address: Hotel Intercontinental, Marine Drive, Churchgate.
Cost: Rs 3,500 (for two)

Gallops
If there's ever a place that exemplifies the idea of fairy tale experiences, it's Gallops. Right from their storybook-standard, cute location to the vine-encrusted door to classic wooden interiors, everything about this restaurant makes you feel like you're sinking into the pages of a book. Order everything from hot soup to kebabs while you're at it.
Address: Inside Mahalaxmi Race Course, Lala Lajpatrai Marg, Mahalaxmi.
Cost: Rs 2,600 (for two)

Carter Road Social
The reason Social makes this list is that it's also a nice place to work out of. With a separate smoking section for all those with vices, Carter Road Social has everything a monsoon fan can want; a great view, filling food that's value for money and charging points. And of course, once you're done with your boss—erm, work, you can grab a beer and look at the sea.
Address: 21, Carter Road, Bandra.
Cost: Rs 1,400 (for two)

Cecconi's
If you're in the mood to serenade your significant other with 'Bheegi Bheegi Raaton Mein' and grab a cocktail while the rainy breeze whips around you, Cecconi's at Soho House in Juhu is the perfect spot. Single? You can still enjoy the cosy and sophisticated ambience with food that ranges from fried calamari to mushroom pizza.
Address: Soho House, Juhu Tara Road, Santacruz West.
Cost: Rs 3,000 (for two)

Chin Chin Chu, Juhu
Chin Chin Chu is home to the coolest panda art in this city. If that's not a big enough draw, then also consider the comforting atmosphere, colourful decor and customised drink menu that will definitely help you relax and enjoy the rain.
Address: Ground Floor, Navaratan Apartments, Near Juhu Post Office.
Cost: Rs 2,200 (for two)

Leaping Windows
Often the site of shoots for web series and shows, this cafe is a famous nook for every youth in the suburbs of Andheri. Right from their well-stocked, basement library to quaint decor, this cafe is made to entice you to drink extra coffee while you read to the soundtrack of rain. The coffee is great, their menu has all-day breakfast options, there's free wifi and you can even bring your pet. What's not to love?
Address: Opposite Bianca Towers, Versova, Andheri West.
Cost: Rs 1,200 (for two)

Honestly, if you're anything like us, then you agree that the best place to enjoy the Mumbai rains safely is wherever there's hot food and coffee, or a good cocktail. So, if you're in the mood, you can even eschew the restaurants and take a trip to classic bake shops for warm puffs. But make sure you tell us, because we'd love to add to our list of places to visit.