Crystal

It is difficult to locate Crystal on the Marine Drive promenade. It lies opposite Girgaon Chowpatty a block away from the Marine Drive Police Station and a few shops away from Sukh Sagar. Its old, small and rough façade can be missed easily. But ask the people who frequently roam the area and they will precisely guide you to this restaurant.

The best time to visit this place is after sunset. The ambience is old and hardly romantic. The restaurant has an untidy interior which unusually adds to its beauty. A few yellow bulbs are the only ones to provide light after sunset. The paints from the walls have started falling off. Agreed, that the lighting and the ambience is dull, but there is something in the restaurant itself that will compel you to visit it another time; and that is the old and historic feel attached to it.

An old uncle (who seems to have known father time since the latter's childhood) sits on the counter always wears his smile along with his spotless white kurta. The waiter who served us was courteous and there wasn't anything fake in that warm smile of his. The aroma of Indian dishes just fills the air. The dull lights and the rugged walls keep the ambience subtle. The quiet feel is worth every minute spent there... One wouldn't even notice the busy Marine Drive road once he is in! The mezzanine is a wood structure that blends beautifully with the tone of the small joint. The wooden furniture, the old Hindi music and steel plates give a home-like feel.

The food is definitely good. The prices are also low. Having the kheer or fruit cream just makes you ask for another one. It obiviously cannot compete some other high-end restraints in the vicinity, but it is a relief for those who stay in the area and want to have some inexpensive but delicious food. It is an apt place for those who would want to treat themselves or others for some small joys or occasions.

This place is worth a visit. It in itself is so welcoming that no one would feel that this place lacks class. In fact it doesn’t lack class. Try it out once and you’ll know why I say sO.