Jimmy Boy

Jimmy Boy is a Parsi restaurant on Bank Street in the Fort, in the heart of the old business district. Parsi cooking is one of the distinctive strands of Mumbai's food culture, and Jimmy Boy is one of the most accessible places to try it. The room is bright and sunlit, with bentwood chairs, a crystal chandelier and paintings of Parsi prophets on the walls, and the overall effect is quirky and charming.

The reason to come is the lagan nu bhonu, the feast traditionally served at Parsi weddings. Here it comes as a multi-course meal with three main dishes: a fish course of either sweet and sour saas ni machhi or patra ni machhi; a chicken course of tangy salli marghi or farcha; and pulao with dhansak dal. Rotli, achaar, wafers and dessert are included. There is a vegetarian version of the bhonu, which makes it a good option for mixed groups.

The a la carte menu is long, and includes a number of standard North Indian dishes, but the Parsi specialities and the bhonu plates are what set the restaurant apart. If you want a lighter meal, choose one or two Parsi dishes rather than the full feast. Near the cashier, a cooler holds brightly coloured pastries and bottles of Pallonji's sodas, which make a fitting accompaniment to the meal.

The restaurant suits families, first-time visitors and anyone curious about Parsi cuisine, and walk-ins are welcome. Ask for a window seat if you enjoy watching the street. Allow an hour or more for the bhonu, which is a generous amount of food. Prices are moderate, and it works well for a long weekday lunch between sightseeing stops. Takeaway is available if you would rather picnic later. Service is friendly and the staff can explain the different parts of the bhonu if Parsi food is new to you, so do ask.

Bank Street is in the Fort, so the area's landmarks, including Flora Fountain and Horniman Circle, are within easy reach. Taxis can drop you on the street, although the lanes of the Fort are narrow and walking the last few minutes is often quicker.