If you live in Bandra, you probably believe in reincarnation. Of the rapid real estate kind. Here in this colourful suburb, commercial spaces have many lives (and many masters) that change hands at a mind boggling speed. In fact, so ephemeral are these ventures that you feel like you’re driving through a brand new suburb every month. One day for instance, that new-on-the-market bite-sized space is a cafe, and the next month it’s a spa. And when you cycle (that's what everyone in Bandra does these days) past after three months, it’s shared by a canine shrink and feline hairdresser. Or something equally bizarre.

Condolences and Congratulations

In the last few months, we’ve been witness to a spate of re-births: Red Ninja and Olivet Bleu died a sudden death to be re-born as Cinnabon; J-Kart made way for fast food shack Hybrid; Pali Village Cafe replaced an antique store; a tobacco factory was born again as swish restaurant Bungalow 9. Don’t even get us started on the row of eateries just off Carter Road! 

From Burgers to Breeding

The latest Bandra shoebox to get a new master is the one that until recently housed Gostana, featuring yum burgers, an earnest owner and a Labrador named Apple. Now, at the same spot, two equally enthusiastic owners and a new Labrador named Elsa man Just Pets, a shop that retails packaged treats, food, clothes, toys, grooming products, leashes and other pet paraphernalia for cats and dogs. Soon, you will find stash for fish and turtles too.

1 Sefa House must have done something wrong for this space went from hosting a hip cafe to a dull pet store. Yup, karma's a bitch in Bandra!

Getting there: Just Pets, 1 Sefa House, Pali Mala Road, lane opposite Bagel Shop, Bandra (W), call 32220495.