Inside Pomodoro, Bandra – A Pasta Bar by Two Sisters Celebrating Authentic Italian Flavors

Tucked away on Bandra’s lively 16th Road, Pomodoro is a cozy 28-seater pasta bar that effortlessly balances intimacy with charm. Chef Afshaa Rajqotwala and her sister Nousheen lead this chef-driven space, which forgoes theatrics in favor of simplicity, soul, and a deep love for Italian cuisine.

From the moment you walk in, Pomodoro feels personal. The interiors are warm and understated, drawing subtle inspiration from its namesake—the tomato. Soft lighting, touches of Pomodoro red, and a glimpse into the open kitchen create a space that’s welcoming, cozy, and never overwhelming. Whether you're dropping in for a solo pasta or meeting friends for a relaxed dinner, the atmosphere invites you to settle in.

Though small in size, the restaurant pulses with energy. There’s often a line outside, yet the service remains seamless. The team moves with efficiency and grace, offering attentive, thoughtful hospitality. Dishes arrive quickly, and every detail—down to the last garnish—reflects the kind of care that’s rare in Mumbai’s fast-paced dining scene.

The Food: An Homage to Simplicity, Flavor, and Precision
Pomodoro’s menu stays focused and fiercely committed to quality. Every dish draws from tradition, yet arrives with a fresh, modern twist.

We started with the Burrata Caponata, a hearty, Sicilian-inspired starter. Slow-cooked eggplant, bell peppers, celery, carrots, and raisins formed the base, topped with a creamy burratina, toasted pine nuts, and crisp potato sticks. The contrast of textures—the softness of the vegetables, the silkiness of the cheese, and the crunch of the garnish—made this dish an instant standout.

Next came The Pomodoro, their namesake dish. Fettuccine arrived coated in a tomato and parmesan emulsion, accented with fresh basil, oregano, and just the right hint of chili. The sauce clung perfectly to the pasta, delivering a dish that felt bright, balanced, and full of flavor. Every bite reaffirmed the power of restraint and quality ingredients.

The Scarpetta leaned more rustic—a flavorful spread of herbed cheese, sun-dried tomato, capers, roasted almonds, and pickled onion, served with their bread of the day. It wasn’t overworked or flashy; instead, it invited you to tear, dip, and savor at your own pace.

Then came the Truffle Funghi Tortellini, the undeniable showstopper. Charcoal-hued tortellini encased a rich, earthy mushroom filling, swimming in a delicate truffle butter emulsion. Topped with crispy shimeji mushrooms, the dish layered texture and umami in every bite. Comforting, luxurious, and exquisitely executed—it lingered long after the last forkful.

Of course, no Italian meal feels complete without dessert. Pomodoro’s Tiramisu rises to the occasion—and then some. Served tableside, the staff gently slice into a generously layered tray and plate it for you, adding a touch of ceremony. Each bite delivers perfectly soaked savoiardi biscuits, bold espresso, an airy mascarpone cream, and a fine dusting of cocoa. It’s indulgent but never heavy, staying true to the classic while nailing the balance of flavor and texture. Simply put, this tiramisu is unforgettable.

The Drinks: A Coffee Counter That Deserves Its Spotlight
Beyond the food, Pomodoro surprises with its Espresso Corner—a thoughtfully curated coffee program that rivals Mumbai’s best specialty cafés.

The Pomodoro House Cold Coffee stood out for its smooth, well-balanced profile. Unlike typical commercial cold brews that veer bitter or overly milky, this one offered a clean espresso flavor, rounded with just the right hint of sweetness.

The Tiramisu Latte was another highlight. Infused with espresso, cocoa, and a whisper of mascarpone essence, it beautifully echoed the flavors of the dessert without tipping into overly sweet or heavy territory.

On the non-caffeinated side, Pomodoro’s mocktails proved just as considered. The Elder & Verde, a refreshing mix of elderflower, fresh basil, tonic water, and cucumber, delivered a bright, herbaceous lift—ideal for a midday pause. Meanwhile, the Ruby Limone, made with mixed berry purée, lime, basil seeds, and a soda top, struck a tart, playful note—a perfect palate cleanser between courses.

Final Takeaway: An Italian Story Told with Grace and Heart
Pomodoro isn’t just another pasta joint—it’s a passion project brought to life with precision and purpose. It doesn’t aim to reinvent Italian cuisine, and that’s exactly what makes it special. It stands out because it respects tradition deeply. Chef Afshaa’s vision is clear: good food doesn’t need theatrics—it needs integrity, technique, and a dash of love.

Every detail, from the pasta and sauces to the drinks and desserts, feels intentional. The service strikes the right balance between warm and efficient, the space invites you in, and the food reflects thoughtful craftsmanship. Whether you’re digging into a comforting bowl of fettuccine or sipping on a creative espresso drink, you’ll leave feeling genuinely cared for.

Pomodoro is the kind of place you return to—not for the hype, but for the experience. It’s an ode to honest food, heartfelt hospitality, and the enduring joy of Italian cooking.