The FDA inspection at Cafe Mondegar was conducted on September 12, 2026. According to officials, inspectors found problems involving food storage temperatures, thawing and cooling practices, drainage and sanitation. Hot food was reportedly not being maintained above the required 60°C, while cold storage was not being maintained below 5°C.
The inspection also identified inadequate drainage near the food-preparation area, which officials said could create a risk of cross-contamination. Damaged and damp flooring and inadequate cleaning and sanitisation of equipment were also among the deficiencies reported by the FDA.
Cafe Mondegar, a long-established Colaba landmark dating back to 1932, is known for its distinctive interiors and Mario Miranda murals. The licence suspension has therefore drawn attention because of the restaurant’s longstanding presence in Mumbai’s food and cultural scene.
The action against Mondegar was part of a wider enforcement drive. The Maharashtra FDA also suspended licences of other food establishments following inspections that identified violations of food-safety and hygiene requirements. Officials have said the inspections are being intensified during the festive season.
The FDA has also been carrying out inspections and collecting food samples from establishments across Mumbai and Maharashtra. The wider campaign includes checks on food handling, storage temperatures, sanitation and possible adulteration.
Cafe Mondegar is one of Colaba’s well-known landmarks, with a history dating back to 1932. The restaurant is particularly recognised for its distinctive interiors and murals associated with cartoonist Mario Miranda, making it a familiar name among Mumbai residents and visitors.
Because of its long history and popularity, the FDA action has attracted considerable public attention. However, the licence suspension is specifically linked to the food-safety and hygiene findings reported by authorities.
The Cafe Mondegar action comes amid a broader enforcement campaign by the Maharashtra FDA. Recent inspections across Mumbai and the state have resulted in action against food businesses where officials reported violations of prescribed safety and hygiene standards.
For consumers, the episode highlights the importance of proper food storage temperatures, clean preparation areas, effective drainage and regular sanitation in restaurants and other food establishments.