‘End of an era’: After 45 years, Mumbai’s New Yorker to shut doors; owner cites family matter, hints at delivery comeback

New Yorker, said Ranbir, was established in 1980 by his grandmother Lalita Batra. “It was her vision, and my father was helping her with the business from the start,” Ranbir recalled. He grew up at the restaurant, working at the cash counter, the kitchen, and even waiting tables. After completing a culinary arts degree in Chicago, he formally took charge in 2008. “I learned my basics here,” he said, adding that every staff member and guest has been like family.

Why is New Yorker shutting down

Ranbir didn’t share details, citing “unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances,” but reiterated it was a family matter. He is, however, a believer in “never say never.” While the physical space is closing, the New Yorker brand will remain with the family. On Instagram, he hinted at exploring a delivery model. When asked about the same, he said he would speak about it only once plans were concrete.

Giving fans a sliver of hope, he added, “Then the door will always be open for New Yorker to come back in a new way. For now though, we say goodbye to this location.”

An outpouring of nostalgia

The announcement prompted a wave of reactions online from those who grew up dining at the restaurant.

“Unbelievably sad,” wrote hospitality brand and communications advisor Pooja Vir, remembering New Yorker as her “first official hangout” during college.

Comedian Sahil Bulla called it a “core childhood memory”, recalling nachos, the activity mat and birthday parties. “Pls don’t go,” he pleaded.

Photographer Ujwal Puri said “nothing can beat” the restaurant’s nachos, while NCP spokesperson Anish Gawande described the closure as “the end of an era.”

At the restaurant too, the sentiment has been overwhelming. Guests have been queuing up for two to three hours just to savour one last meal. “At night, I step out of the kitchen and people share stories about their first dates, college hangouts, birthdays… Some have even travelled from Andheri, Powai and Kandivali to bid adieu,” Ranbir said.

As for plans for their last service on September 11? “Do what we do, as best as we can, and serve people with a smile on our face and gratitude in our heart,” Ranbir said.