Live music has really caught on in Mumbai, with many people now preferring to go out and listen to a live band than a DJ. Visit any of these popular Mumbai live music venues and you won’t be disappointed.
1. Blue Frog
Sharell Cook
The Blue Frog is without a doubt the most happening live music venue in Mumbai, and understandably so. Its eight partners, some of whom are talented musicians, are extremely dedicated to the industry. They've put a lot of effort into creating a unique and versatile venue -- a lavishly decorated 6,000 square foot warehouse that plays host to all genres from jazz to electronic. Blue Frog also serves up sumptuous food and drinks from a global menu.
- Where: Mathuradas Mills Compound, NM Joshi Marg, Lower Parel. Ph: 40332300.
- When: Tuesday to Sunday.
- Time: Open from 6.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m. Live acts from 10.30 p.m. Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Entry Fee: 300 rupees after 9 p.m. 500 rupees on Friday & Saturday (includes a free drink).
2. Not Just Jazz By The Bay
This restaurant/bar has a wonderful waterfront location and an intriguing set of steps that are made to resemble a piano. As its name suggests, the genre of music at this place is not just limited to jazz. Bands also play blues, rock, and sometimes even county and western. Although this is a great place to hear live music, better food can be found at the pizzeria next door.
- Where: Soona Mahal, Opposite Hotel Ambassador, 143, Marine Drive, Churchgate. Ph: 22851876.
- When: Four night a week from Wednesday to Saturday. There’s karaoke on the other nights.
- Time: Open from 6 p.m. to 1.30 a.m.
- Entry Fee: 300 rupees after 10pm.
3. Zenzi
Sharell Cook
Thursday nights at the classy and eclectic Zenzi are dedicated to unleashing amateur acoustic musicians on Mumbai. The name of the night is “Open Mind Night” and anyone can take the stage for free, as long as they perform acoustic. On any one night it’s possible to hear a mixed bag of accapella vocalists, singers, and rock bands. Be adventurous and your ears might be treated to the sound of something special. The food is delicious and innovative here too!
- Where: 183 Waterfield Road, Bandra. Ph: 66430670.
- When: Every Thursday.
- Time: Open all day until 1 a.m. Live acts from 10 p.m. onwards.
- Entry Fee: Free
4. Henry Tham's Lounge
This fine dining Chinese restaurant also has a lounge bar that hosts World Music Nights on Thursday nights. You’ll be able to hear everything from Latin grooves to reggae, depending on the occasion. Usually there’s a DJ who plays a world music genre, while a percussionist jams alongside.
- Where: Dhanraj Mahal, Apollo Blunder, Colaba. Ph: 22848314
- When: Every Thursday.
- Time: Open from 7.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m. Live acts from 10 p.m. onwards.
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Hard Rock Cafe
www.flickr.com user zadeus
The Hard Rock Cafe chain found its way to Mumbai in late 2006, and anyone needing a good dose of American food and culture should come here. As would be expected at a Hard Rock Café, the menu is packed with tasty burgers, fries, steak, salads, and indulgent deserts. The two level venue provides a spacious reprieve in crowded Mumbai, with two stages that serve up a variety of live rock performances.
- Where: Bombay Dyeing Mill Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg (opposite Kamala City Mills Studio), Worli. Ph: 24382888.
- When: Live bands every Tuesday and Thursday nights.
- Time: Open Monday to Sunday from 12.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m.
- Entry Fee: Around 200 rupees on live band nights, although this varies according to who’s performing.
