In the heart of Lower Parel, an old textile mill has been thoughtfully reimagined as Late Checkout. This new addition to Mumbai’s dining scene offers a calm but considered escape from the city’s pace, offering globally-inspired bites and an exciting cocktail program. With a menu shaped by travel memories and a bar that leans into inventive techniques, it invites guests to settle in and stay a little longer, making time feel like an afterthought rather than a constraint. Late Checkout is the tenth venture from Chrome Hospitality (co-founded by Pawan Shahri and Nikita Shahri), which also includes well-known restaurants like Gigi, Lyla and others in Mumbai.
The space pays homage to its industrial past with soaring 21-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and steel accents, while layering in unexpected touches of opulence. Think plush upholstery, glittering chandeliers, and decorative items sourced from different parts of India. A dramatic bar anchors the space, its metal-and-wood design catching the eye whether bathed in golden daylight or wrapped in the warm, chalet-like glow of evening. Divided into three seating zones, the venue flows effortlessly from cosy date-night corners to convivial setups for larger groups.
The kitchen at Late Checkout is led by Chef Amit Dhoundiyal. As we browsed the bar bites section on the menu, we noticed something of a pattern – several of the options had one familiar component, which was then combined with others in unexpected ways. This was our first hint of the bar’s distinctive style and sense of novelty, and we were immediately curious. For instance, we were craving the satisfaction of a potato appetiser, so we called for the Porcini Pate On Hash. What arrived was a sophisticated yet undeniably comforting treat – a creamy porcini mushroom pate piped onto small hashbrowns and dotted with a spiced berry compote. Next, being in the mood for something crispy, we gladly ordered the French Onion Tempura. What happens if you cross the delicate flavours of French Onion Soup with the homely crunch of Onion Rings? The answer is this delicious delicacy. One doesn’t expect a greasy basketful of the usual fried bar bite, of course. What arrived were four carefully crafted large rings with a unique tempura coating and a silky dip reminiscent of the soup. Despite their elevated avatar, the rings managed to remain a fun snack. Chef insisted we try the signature Crab Rangoon Dip and Wonton Cracker, and we were so glad he did. It turned out to be a particularly clever deconstruction of the original. Talk about a protein-rich chip and dip!