Century Milestone Halted: Mumbai’s Iconic Jimmy Boy Parsi Cafe Abruptly Closes Weeks Before 100th Anniversary
Mumbai: Mumbai’s legendary Parsi restaurant, Jimmy Boy, has abruptly closed its flagship Fort location just months before its 100th anniversary, forced out by safety concerns over its crumbling building. Known for Keema Pav, Brun Maska, Mava Cakes, and Irani chai, the eatery was a beloved culinary landmark in South Mumbai.
The closure followed a June 20th inspection prompted by a call to the BMC disaster management helpline reporting cracks in Vikas Premises, the ground-plus-four commercial building housing Jimmy Boy on its ground floor. Civic officials confirmed the building was immediately vacated for safety reasons. A formal notice under Section 354 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act 1888 was issued on June 21st, prohibiting occupancy until structural safety is assured.
According to the notice, obtained by The Times of India (TOI), structural consultants Mahimtura Consultants Pvt. Ltd. had submitted an audit report to the building society approximately one year prior, mandating “immediate structural repairs.” The notice states no remedial measures were taken by the society. The consultant’s June 21st letter, accompanied by photographs and a report proforma, described the building’s condition as “extremely dilapidated.”
Jimmy Boy Director of Operations Shehzad Irani confirmed the Fort premises was their operational heart. “In September 2025, we complete 100 years,” Irani told TOI, explaining the location operated first as Café India until 1999 before rebranding to Jimmy Boy. He revealed plans for centenary celebrations to “give back to patrons” were in early stages but now halted. Operations continue at their Mahim branch (takeaway only) and via extended delivery, while their Café Olive Green outlet in Navy Nagar also serves Jimmy Boy cakes and snacks.
“We’re staying positive… Though this feels like a speed breaker, we hope to bounce back stronger. Our aim remains to serve authentic Parsi food,” Irani stated.
The situation has raised broader concerns. Landlord Pinky Janak Ganjawala expressed worry to TOI that structurally sound older buildings face notices simply due to age. Citing Section 79A of the MHADA Act, she noted that if owners don’t act on danger notices within months, MHADA can initiate redevelopment without consent, a process she called unfair due to frequent misalignment between landlords and tenants. TOI was unable to reach the owner of Vikas Premises for comment.