About Khar Social
Khar Social is a hybrid café-bar and nightlife venue in Mumbai’s Khar West neighborhood. By day it operates as a casual café and co‐working lounge, and by night it transforms into a lively bar and intimate club. Opened around 2015, this Social Offline outpost quickly became a local favourite, energizing Khar’s nightlife. The décor is notably sustainable and quirky – table tops are made from reclaimed doors, lights repurposed from old hospital fixtures, and even cocktail glasses adorned with humorous hashtags. These creative design touches give Khar Social a distinctive, rustic-meets-industrial atmosphere. Notably, the venue houses Mumbai’s first indoor skatepark feature, blending youth culture with café culture. With multiple floors and a rooftop space, Khar Social serves as a “second home” for Mumbai youth – a workplace by day, and a buzzing dance venue after hours.
Events and Programming
Khar Social hosts a full spectrum of events. Regular programming includes Friday and Saturday night dance parties with DJs spinning electronic, house, techno, hip-hop, and world music. Local DJ collectives and promoter nights often fill the calendar. For example, international acts like Clap! Clap! and Preditah have played here in the past. Mid-week events might feature salsa & bachata dance socials (organized by Dance Design India every other Monday) or themed parties. Daytime and weekend often bring market-style pop-up events and fashion or craft bazaars. The venue also partners with music collectives for special concerts or festivals; one November 2017 event, the urban music festival “DISRUPT,” spanned three stages and celebrated Khar Social’s anniversary. In general, expect weekly live music nights, DJ sets after 9pm, and occasional one-day festivals. Ticket prices vary by event – club nights usually have no fixed ticket (just a cover charge at the door), while concerts or special gigs can cost around ₹600-₹800. Often there’s free or reduced-fee entry early in the evening, with higher cover after 10pm. In short, Khar Social is best known for vibrant nightlife and community events that draw creative, young crowds.
Tickets and Booking
Khar Social itself doesn’t have a formal box office or subscription service. Most evenings are walk-up entry: simply arrive at the door (after 9pm on event nights) and pay any cover charge. For popular parties and concerts, tickets are often sold in advance through local event platforms and then honored at the door. Because Khar Social is part of a larger restaurant chain, it also takes table reservations for dining via phone or online booking services. However, reservations don’t guarantee space on busy party nights, so it’s wise to arrive early. In peak season or for festivals, some events may offer advance ticket sales on ticketing websites – but many parties are “first come, first served.” Generally, dining reservations should be made at least a few days ahead for weekend evenings. For door sales, bring photo ID and an updated QR code or printed ticket if you’ve pre-registered. Typical cover charges for DJ nights are around ₹600–800 per person (for late-night entry), but it’s common for entry to be free until a specified time. In summary: you can reserve a table for dinner, but club nights are mostly general admission, so plan to get there early if you hope to avoid a long wait or sellout.
Seating and Layout
Khar Social is spread over two main indoor floors plus a partially open rooftop area. On the ground floor you’ll find the main bar, a small dance floor and lounge seating. A DJ booth and elevated dance area occupy the center of the ground floor on busy nights. The second floor (accessible by stairs) is mainly dining tables and couches, offering a view down to the bar below. Upstairs seating is generally quieter, good for conversation and watching the scene. The rooftop terrace (sometimes referred to as the “skate deck” after the built-in skate feature) provides casual outdoor seating by day. Because this is primarily a bar, there are no assigned seats or reserved sections on party nights. Seating is open, so on weekends it helps to get there early to claim a good spot. Typically, the best vantage for watching DJs is near the front of the ground floor, while first-floor tables near the railing work well for dining. On crowded nights you may be standing on the main floor, so wear comfortable shoes. Acoustically, the sound system is designed for club music – it’s loud and punchy, with the bass felt throughout the space. When it’s very full, the upper floor can get warm, but the rooftop area allows a breather under the open sky. In general, avoid staying too close to the kitchen or restrooms if you want the best views of the music and lights.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Khar Social sits in Rohan Plaza at 5th Road, Ram Krishna Nagar, Khar West (near the corner of SV Road and 5th Road). Its official address is 14, 5th Road, Khar West, Mumbai 400052. There are visible signboards for Social and Rohan Plaza on site.
Public Transit: The nearest railway station is Khar (Western Line) – only about a 10-minute walk from the venue. You can exit Khar station, walk west on 5th Road, and Rohan Plaza will be on your left. Santacruz (West) station is also nearby (another 5 minutes beyond Khar). Several BEST buses stop on the adjacent S. V. Road and 5th Road; routes like 220 (from Bandra Station) and 51 serve the area. Auto-rickshaws and Mumbai’s cab services (Ola, Uber) can drop you right at the plaza entrance for convenience.
Drivers and Parking: Khar West is a busy neighbourhood, so on-site parking is very limited. Building parking in Rohan Plaza is generally reserved and often full. Street parking along side roads is sparse and metered. The city’s municipal pay-and-park lot on 33rd Road (about 500m north) is one of the nearer official lots. Otherwise, most guests use ride-hailing services or taxis. If driving, plan to arrive early to find any available street space; allow extra time for traffic, especially on SV Road. Rikers take note: the area has some one-way streets and traffic on weekends can be heavy.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by indoor/outdoor seating areas and a security check at the entrance. Khar Social enforces a strict 18+ policy, so staff will ask for ID (driver’s license, passport or other government ID) at the door. Inside, the atmosphere is vibrant and club-like with dim, colourful lighting and upbeat music. The bar on the ground floor is fully stocked with beers, spirits, and creative cocktails (look out for drinks served in novelty glasses like glowing lanterns or faux “blood bag” pouches!). The upper floor has its own more relaxed feel with tables for dining. The staff dress is casual but stylish, and service is generally friendly and fast during non-peak times. Menus are printed like newspapers, and servers are happy to recommend popular dishes.
At both lunch and night the venue offers full food service, with pizza, burgers, Asian bowls, and Indian fusion snacks all allowed to be ordered at your table. (For nightlife, it’s more pub-style fare.) Electric charging outlets and free Wi-Fi are available, because Khar Social doubles as a co-working space by day – there are power sockets along the walls upstairs. There’s no formal coat check, so guests typically hold onto jackets or drape them over chairs. Restrooms are located on each floor and are well-maintained (bring small change to operate the taps and dryers if needed). Stocked with quirky details and upbeat artwork, the interior keeps you immersed. You’ll also find merchandise or branded glassware at times (Social often offers T-shirts or stickers at the counter). Overall, expect a lively, playful vibe with a hint of industrial flair: reclaimed wood tables, metal accents, and bits of graffiti art tie together Khar Social’s offbeat character.
Nearby Amenities
Pre-show Dining: Right around Khar Social there are many restaurants of diverse cuisines. A popular Mexican spot (Poco Loco, 0.1km away) and a Sindhi specialty diner (Sindhful) share the block. Nearby you’ll also find Asian-fusion eateries (Fatty Bao, Hakkasan) and casual cafes. If you want to grab a quick bite before heading in, local options include an Irani cafe or a juice shop on 5th Road. The Social’s sister café-bar “Raasta” is also on-location, offering coffee and snacks if you arrive early. Foodies often recommend the giant nachos and chicken wings at Khar Social itself, or one of the street-side vada pav and samosa stalls a block away.
Beverages and Late-night Bars: For an after-party, the immediate vicinity has a few more bars – for example, the rooftop bar at Ramee Guestline Hotel (2-min walk) serves cocktails with a view. A half-block north is a lively bar/pub, and on Linking Road (a few minutes by cab) you’ll find more nightlife gems. Water and soft drinks are readily available inside Khar Social, so no need to plan additional stops unless you want to explore other venues afterwards.
Hotels: If you’re visiting Mumbai and need a place to stay near Khar Social, the nearest option is the Ramee Techome Hotel Khar (literally above 3rd Road station) or the Ramee Guestline Khar East (next to Khar station). A few minutes’ drive away in Santacruz or Bandra, there are many more hotels ranging from budget lodges to upscale chains, including several by the Western Express Highway. For travelers on foot, you can also find serviced apartments and guest houses (like Regal Enclave and Bawa Suites) within a radius of 1–2 km. But if you prefer walking, staying near Khar or Santacruz station will get you here quickest.
Arrival Timing: If you plan to grab a bite or drink before an event, note that on weekends Khar lane gets busy early. Many patrons arrive by 7–8pm. The MRT buses keep running late on SV Road, and taxis/Ubers are readily available even after midnight for the return trip. The area is well-lit at night, and local officials routinely patrol the stretch near the train station, so walking the short distance from Khar station is generally considered safe after dark.
What Makes This Venue Special
Khar Social stands out for its unique blend of concepts and creative design. It is one of Mumbai’s first venues to fully integrate a workspace, a café, a dance club, and even a skatepark under one roof. The commitment to 100% upcycled interior elements (doors as tables, industrial lamps from hospital bits) gives it a one-of-a-kind, sustainable character. This green philosophy is rare in bars and makes the décor endlessly fascinating. Another signature feature is the rooftop skatepark: by day skateboarders use a custom-built mini-bowl, and in the evening the same space becomes a laid-back lounge (complete with floor cushions) – the kind of social experiment few other venues attempt. That skatepark marks Khar Social as a cultural pioneer, blurring the line between café culture and street sports.
On a broader scale, Khar Social helped transform Khar’s once-sleepy station neighborhood into a buzzing entertainment hub. Its success inspired other trendy spots on the 150-metre stretch from Khar station, meaning it’s now part of a vibrant “party corridor”. Famous moments include packed anniversary gigs with international DJs and local art markets that drew first-time visitors. For regulars, Khar Social is famous for Instagrammable quirks – think cocktails in glowing lanterns and menus printed like newspapers – which creates memorable night-out stories. Artists and entrepreneurs love the space for hosting unconventional events (fashion pop-ups, art shows, mixer gatherings) alongside dance nights. In short, the venue is cherished both by performers and patrons for its offbeat vibe, community energy, and the way it blends creativity with casual fun.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility and Comfort: The venue offers free Wi-Fi and plenty of plug sockets upstairs, so bring your laptop for the daytime co-working zone. Wear layers or carry a light jacket if you plan to stay late – it can get chilly in the air-conditioned bar section after the evening starts. Parking is hard to come by, so we recommend using drop-off via taxis or rideshare services. If you drive, allow extra time to find a spot and watch the narrow lanes.
Age and Dress: Khar Social strictly enforces an 18+ entry rule after dark, so carry valid ID. There’s no strict dress code, but smart-casual is best – many patrons dress up for nights out. Shoes and shirts are required; avoid beachwear or overly casual gear on weekend nights.
Booking and Timing: For dinner, you can reserve a table by calling a few days in advance (especially on Friday/Saturday). Even with a reservation, the venue tends to fill up, so arrive early if possible. For parties and DJ nights, there is no fixed seating – spots are first-come. Most evenings kick off around 9–10pm. If you want to secure a place, try to arrive before 8pm on weekends. Events usually wind down after midnight (the bar closes around 1am), so plan late-night transport accordingly.
What to Bring: Essentials are photo ID and cash/card for entry cover and drinks. Phone and camera are fine (many patrons take selfies amidst the neon lights). Earplugs can be handy if you’re sensitive to loud music. Bring an appetite if you plan to eat – the kitchen stops serving around 11pm but snacks can be ordered until close. For dance nights, wear comfortable shoes and maybe spare socks, because the ground floor space can get warm from dancing. Finally, if you’re joining a group, use the venue’s table reservation option or prepare for a little wait in line.
Nearby Needs: The venue has a small coatcheck hook, but there’s no big coatroom, so carry only what you need. There are no lockers, so secure your belongings with you. Restrooms are available on each floor – they generally have soap, paper towels and water. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for table service. Lastly, weekends can be very busy; keep an eye on your group so no one gets lost in the crowd. With these reminders, you’ll be ready for a smooth and fun visit to Khar Social.
What are the opening hours of Khar Social?
Khar Social typically opens at 10:00 AM and stays open until around midnight or 1:00 AM (the exact closing time can vary, but late-night bar service usually ends around 12:30–1:00 AM). It serves as a café and co-working spot during the day, and by evening (around 9–10 PM) it transitions fully into a bar. On weekends it may open later and go on longer into the night. It’s best to check with the venue for any holiday or special event hours, but generally you can drop in from lunch through late night.
Do I need to buy tickets or make a reservation for a night at Khar Social?
For regular club nights at Khar Social, tickets are usually not required. Entry is generally on a first-come basis with a modest cover charge at the door if there is no advance booking. Popular events might sell tickets through local event platforms in advance. You can reserve a table for dining (call a few days ahead), but table bookings do not guarantee entry to late-night parties. If a special show is announced (a live concert or festival), you’d need to get tickets through the event promoter. Otherwise, simply arriving early often lets you avoid long lines on busy nights.
What is the price range for food and drinks at Khar Social?
Food and drink at Khar Social is mid-range. Expect to pay around ₹1,200–₹1,800 for a meal for two (including a modest bottle of wine or a couple of beers). Cocktails typically cost in the range of ₹300–₹450 each, and popular drinks like cocktails in lanterns or beer will be on that order. Bar snacks and entrees (nachos, sliders, Chinese boxes, etc.) are roughly ₹250–₹400 each. On club nights the cover charge (between ₹600–₹800 after 10 PM) is added to your bill. Overall, plan on spending about ₹1,500 per couple if you order a sandwich or meal plus drinks. The prices are comparable to other young, trendy bars in Mumbai.
How can I reserve a table or seating at Khar Social?
Yes, you can reserve a table for dining at Khar Social. It’s best to call the venue in advance (especially on weekends) to secure a table slot and avoid waiting. The restaurant part of Khar Social takes reservations by phone or online booking (via common restaurant apps). Note that on big event nights or after 9 PM it can be standing-room only, so even with a reservation it helps to arrive early. Reservations typically cover standard dining tables on the first or ground floors. There is no formal “VIP area,” but having a reservation means staff will prioritize your seating at opening. If you just want to browse or dance, you can walk in without booking—though tables are first-come on busy nights.
Which train station or bus serves Khar Social?
The closest train stop is Khar (Western Line) – only about a 10-minute walk via 5th Road to Rohan Plaza. Santacruz (W) station is a bit further but still within walking or a quick auto ride distance. BEST city buses running on S.V. Road and Linking Road stop near Khar station too (Mumbai bus routes like 51 or 220 service the area). For example, bus 220 from Bandra or 51 from Santacruz will get you to the Khar station area. From there just a short walk east on 5th Road brings you to the venue. Auto-rickshaws and app cabs regularly circle Khar and will drop you right at the doorstep of Khar Social.
Is there parking available near Khar Social?
Parking is very limited. Khar Social itself has no public lot; the building’s parking is typically for tenants. The nearest municipal pay-and-park lot is several blocks away (around 33rd Road), which is about a 10-minute walk. Street parking on side lanes is scarce, especially after dark. Because finding a spot can be difficult and time‐consuming, most visitors use taxis or rideshare drop-offs. If you do drive, arrive early to hunt for a space. It’s safest to assume you’ll need to park a few blocks away or take a cab – ride services like Uber or Ola can drop you right at the entrance to avoid parking hassles.
Is Khar Social wheelchair accessible?
Khar Social has an entrance at street level, so the ground floor is generally accessible. However, the venue’s upper floors are connected only by stairs (there is no full-service elevator available for public use). Some ground-floor seating and bar space can accommodate wheelchairs, but the restroom may be cramped. It’s best to call ahead about access needs. In short, the ground floor is reachable, but the upstairs dining area and the rooftop skate deck are not wheelchair-friendly due to stair access. Staff will assist as much as possible, but mobility could be limited to the main level.
What is the minimum age for entry at Khar Social?
The legal drinking age and entry policy is 18+. Khar Social enforces a strict 18+ age limit for all customers in the evening. At the door, security will ask to see a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or similar) for anyone appearing 18–20 years old. During daytime hours (e.g. lunch, early evening) families can be present, but once the venue shifts to bar mode (around 9 PM onward), anyone under 18 will generally be turned away. In summary, be prepared to show ID proving you are 18 or older to enter after dark.
Is there a dress code for Khar Social?
Khar Social does not enforce a formal dress code, but patrons typically dress smart-casual. No flip-flops, tank tops, or overly revealing clothing after sundown. Many people come in nice jeans, stylish tops, and comfortable bar wear, so it’s best to avoid beachwear or workout clothes on weekend nights. If you wear anything too rumpled or extremely casual, you might stand out in a crowd. Overall, the vibe is relaxed yet hip – a clean shirt and footwear are a must.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into Khar Social?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed. Like most bars and restaurants, Khar Social is licensed for its own food and beverage service. Bringing in beers or snacks from outside is prohibited, and you may be asked to discard them at the door. However, personal snacks or small street food (like a quick snack from outside) is usually tolerated if discreet, but the venue’s own menu is designed to meet all your dining needs. The only exception would be medications or baby food, which are generally permitted.
Does Khar Social have outdoor or rooftop seating?
Yes. Khar Social has a partial outdoor/rooftop area above the main floor. By day this space includes a small skate bowl and casual seating; by night it serves as an open-air lounge section. It’s a raised terrace alongside the building, so you can enjoy fresh air and city views here. Seating on the rooftop is informal (benches and cushion areas). If the weather is good, many guests step outside between dances. This outdoor deck is a signature feature – just ask staff how to get up there if it’s open. It’s not fully covered, so in heavy rain it may close off.
Is there Wi-Fi and phone charging available at Khar Social?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue (often called “Social_WIFI” or similar). Since Khar Social doubles as a co-working café during the day, many tables have power outlets. You’ll find USB/AC plugs along the walls upstairs and occasionally on the main floor. Wi-Fi login info may be written on board or provided by staff. The signal is generally good for browsing, and outlets mean you can recharge phones or laptops—especially useful if you’re working there in the afternoon. In summary, internet and charging are guest-friendly amenities, as long as you remember to unplug when done.
Are pets or children allowed at Khar Social?
Khar Social is primarily an adult venue. Small children or infants are not typically accommodated during evening bar hours. During daytime café hours (up until early evening), a well-behaved child might be tolerated, but the space isn’t set up for kids (no high chairs, etc.) and the atmosphere becomes loud after dark. Pets are not allowed. It’s safest to make alternate arrangements for children or pets when visiting at night. Essentially, Khar Social is designed for adults looking to work by day or party by night, rather than as a family-friendly restaurant.
What payment methods are accepted at Khar Social?
Khar Social accepts both cash and card payments. Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and digital wallet payments (such as UPI) are accepted at the bar and at dining tables. When splitting bills, the staff can usually handle multiple forms of payment. Note that when covering events or table bookings, the cover charge must be paid at the door (cash or card). If you pre-book through a dining app, you might pay online or at the venue. It’s a good idea to carry at least some cash just in case, but cards work routinely here.
What is the best time to arrive at Khar Social on a party night?
On busy nights, arriving early can improve your experience. If you want a table or easy entry, aim for around 7–8 PM on a Friday or Saturday. The venue starts filling up by 9 PM, and the main dance floor gets crowded after 10 PM. Early birds often get good seating and no cover fee if they enter before the cut-off. If you’re coming later (10:30+), be prepared for standing room and a higher cover charge. For midweek dance events, 8–9 PM is a safe arrival window. In short: earlier is better for comfort; later is peak party-time.
What hotels are near Khar Social for overnight stays?
The nearest hotels are within a few minutes’ drive. Right by Khar station is the Ramee Guestline Hotel (mid-range). Across Linking Road in Khar is the Ramee Techome Hotel (3–4 star). A short cab ride to Santacruz/Bandra offers larger brand hotels (holiday Inn, Hyatt, etc.). For budget or local stays, consider Regal Enclave or Bawa Suites near the Khar market area. If you want convenience, staying near Khar or Santacruz railway stations means an easy walk to Khar Social. In general, the Bandra-Santacruz stretch has many hotels of all budgets, and they are about 5–15 minutes away by car from the 5th Road location.
What is the capacity of Khar Social?
Khar Social is a moderately sized venue rather than a large concert hall. It comfortably fits up to about 100–150 people when fully packed (across two floors and the terrace). For seated dining service the capacity is smaller – roughly 60 people can sit at tables indoors at once. The ground floor has a standing room-dance capacity, plus second-floor seating. In practical terms, expect a lively crowd on busy nights, but not thousands. This cozy scale keeps the atmosphere intimate and ensures good visibility of the DJ from almost anywhere inside.
Is Khar Social family or child-friendly?
Khar Social is geared towards adults and young professionals. It has no special amenities for children (no kids’ menu or play area), and the music/nights can be loud. During daylight hours (café mode), well-behaved children can sometimes visit with their parents. But once evening comes, the crowd is strictly 18+. The venue’s focus on nightlife and creative events means it’s not set up for family dining. If a family with teenagers is looking for dinner in early evening, it’s possible, but for a safe experience, keep in mind that minors will generally not be allowed in past 9–10 PM. In summary, Khar Social is primarily adult-focused.