Permit & Co.: Where Nostalgia Meets Innovation in Bombay’s Drinking Culture
In a city where every corner tells a story, Permit & Co. revives Bombay’s rich drinking heritage by reimagining the classic permit rooms that once defined the city's social landscape.
Founded by Aditya Vijay Hegde and Adesh Vijay Hegde, the team behind the legendary Gymkhana91, this establishment takes patrons on a journey through time, fusing vintage charm with contemporary mixology.
A Tribute to Bombay’s Permit Room Legacy
Permit rooms have long been an intrinsic part of Bombay’s cultural fabric. “Growing up, Gymkhanas were our go-to spots. The sense of familiarity they bring—with food, service, and drinks—has always been the essence of hospitality for me,” says Aditya. Permit & Co. builds on this sentiment, recreating the nostalgic charm of these iconic spaces while embracing the city's evolving drinking culture.
“Gymkhana91 successfully celebrated the era and charm of Gymkhanas, and brought that sense of nostalgia to the space. With Permit & Co., we wanted to step back and celebrate the beginnings of Bombay’s drinking culture and the countless memories associated with it.”
A Menu That Feels Like Home
Permit & Co. is all about comfort—both in its ambiance and offerings. “Everything about permit rooms screams comfort. When crafting our food and drink menu, we wanted to retain that essence but with a modern spin,” explains Aditya. The drinks menu draws inspiration from Bombay’s beloved flavors—think Sitaphal Cream from the city’s legendary juice centers, Pallonji sodas, and old-school Campa Cola, reinterpreted in craft cocktails.
On the food front, the menu curated by Chef Sandeep Moktan brings together elements of Bombay’s diverse culinary influences. Classic chakna like Kabuli Channa, Schezwan Chakli, and Papad & Peanuts set the stage for a quintessential drinking experience. Small plates like Agri Dum Alu pay homage to one of Bombay’s oldest communities, while the Bambaiya Pav Bhaji gets a creative twist in a Masala Croissant. Street-food favorites like Jhol Momos and Laphing reflect the city’s melting-pot character, making every dish a nostalgic yet inventive experience.
Cocktails with a Bombay Soul
Mixologist Karl Fernandes has masterfully crafted a drinks menu that embodies the city’s spirit.
Signature cocktails include the Permit & Co.la, a blend of dark and white rum with house-carbonated cola inspired by Campa Cola, and the IL.I.(I)C, a twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea with cold brew and cola foam, paying homage to the city’s love for dark filter coffee. The Batliwaala, a playful mix of gin and house-made raspberry soda, brings back memories of Pallonji sodas, while the PvR—a concoction of pisco, caramel popcorn, egg, and magic foam—adds an imaginative touch inspired by the legendary Ramos Fizz and theater caramel popcorn.
“If you’re visiting Permit & Co. for the first time, we highly recommend starting with the Permit & Co.la—it’s a nostalgic yet refined introduction to the bar’s Bombay-inspired mixology,” suggests Aditya.
A Space That Breathes History
The interiors of Permit & Co. seamlessly blend old-world charm with a modern sensibility. Designed to evoke the feel of permit rooms from the 1960s to the 1980s, the space is wrapped in warm mood lighting, vintage woodwork flooring, and rustic aesthetics.
“The space fosters a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere that allows patrons to truly soak in the city’s drinking culture,” says Aditya.
Bringing Bombay’s Drinking Culture to Life
Permit & Co. isn’t just about great drinks and food—it’s about reviving and celebrating Bombay’s vibrant social traditions. “We recently launched Bombay Likes to Brunch, a brunch experience inspired by the city’s rich culinary and drinking traditions. This menu is a tribute to the flavors and nostalgia of Bombay, seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary influences,” Aditya shares.
Patrons can also look forward to themed nights, guest takeovers, and curated events to celebrate the city’s evolving drinking culture. “Stay tuned for exciting announcements—we’re just getting started!”
With Permit & Co., Bombay’s permit room culture finds a new home, blending the warmth of the past with the innovation of the present. Whether searching for a nostalgic sip, a modern twist on a classic, or simply a place to unwind in true Bombay style, Permit & Co. is the city’s newest destination for an immersive, one-of-a-kind drinking experience.
Tarvene Shahpuri
Tarvene is a chocolate and chai fiend who is constantly on the hunt for cute cafes. You can catch her baking some Biscoff cheesecakes or binge-watching Netflix shows. She likes filling up her free time painting, listening to music or going on long drives.