Aurus, Juhu, Mumbai, India - a Lounge Review

Aurus is the most happening lounge and restaurant in the suburbs of Mumbai - dare I say, even the most happening in the entire city of Mumbai! When you are rubbing shoulders with the most popular Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan - you know the place has got something going for it.

Aurus is in the posh locality of Juhu, on Juhu Tara Road. Locating Aurus can be a little difficult because they don't have any signboard on display. The best way to locate it is to look out for the Reid & Taylor show room - Aurus is about 2 buildings before the green colored showroom.

Aurus is exclusive. It's more of a restaurant than lounge. The outdoors is littered with a verity of sofa sets mingled with various types of plants and fountains. The entire section has an unobstructed view of Juhu Beach. The interior section is mostly chairs and tables for dinner with a bar running along one side. A tiny area between the tables and the bar becomes the dance floor although it was never intended to be used as one.

Aurus is an expensive place. The food is assorted from all parts of the world while your alcohol will set you back about Rs. 300-350 for a pint of beer. During Fridays it's almost impossible to find place to even stand in Aurus - both inside and outside. There are throngs of people waiting outside to get in. Entry is strictly for couples only. Even if you have 1 stag member in your group it's going to be tough getting in. There is no entry fee and there is valet parking.

Aurus makes for a good getaway during weeknights as opposed to weekends. During the week one gets to truly enjoy the view, the service and the food. I believe they also serve a wicked brunch deal on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Surprisingly, Aurus remains more of a restaurant on Saturdays. On Saturday, the music is intentionally sober to discourage too many people from treating it as though it were a club with a dance floor.

The outside seating makes for a very romantic getaway. The inside makes for a very enjoyable family get together. All in all, Aurus is everything its made up to be. Great food, great view, good music and good crowd. Worth every penny.