By Priya Fonseca
Invariably, when it's time to shop for birthday presents, the neighbourhood toy store has all kinds of board games and doodads but not that one particular toy that your child wants to get his or her friend. For that toy you know you have to head to one of the large "I will never let you down" stores. Some of these are large format chain shops, typically within malls, while others are stand-alone stores that are the ultimate go-to for every parent. Here are some of our Mumbai favourites.
1. Hamleys
(Image courtesy: Hamleys India from their Facebook page)
Where: High Street Phoenix (Lower Parel), Infiniti (Malad), Phoenix Market City (Kurla), Viviana (Thane), RCity Mall (Ghatkopar)
Touted as "The world's finest toy shop from the UK," Hamleys is almost every child's favourite place to browse. The stores are bright and colourful, with eye-catching displays, games and toys waiting to be tried out and friendly assistants who can locate any product you require under three minutes. Hamleys stocks big name brands, traditional toys and also quirky and unusual treasures. Adding to the in-store experience is a daily dose of toy demonstrations, magicians, soap bubbles, song and dance by the store assistants, music, and other exciting events and activities.
For further information please click here.
2. Landmark
(Image courtesy: Landmark from their Facebook page)
Where: Inorbit (Vashi)
Landmark is a Tata-owned lifestyle retail chain that sells books, toys, games, music, movies, stationery, gifts and tech gadgets. The store is large and well designed with a huge range of books for all ages. Their toy section is vast with almost everything a child desires available on their shelves. There is also a section devoted to children's books and stationery. This store often has exciting in-store promotions and events and their annual sale is extremely popular for amazing deals.
For further information please click here.
3. Souvenirs
(Image courtesy: Souvenirs from their Facebook page)
Locality: Colaba
This premium toy store has been around since 1960 and has always had a super range of products. Souvenirs has evolved with the times and caters to choices that are current and relevant. Several schools, playschools and activity centres also source their products from this store.
For further information please click here.
4. Sona The Party Shop
Where: Bandra
This tiny store is packed with every item that makes up kiddie dreams. They tend to have the latest and trendiest products out sooner than your child even knows they exist. This store is the go-to place for party favours too. They also sell party decorations and other bits and bobs. In fact, they'll even organize the birthday party for you.
For further information please click here.
5. Sayonara
(Image courtesy: Sayonara from their Facebook page)
Where: Bandra
Sayonara has been around since 1971, and loyal customers swear by their range of exclusive collectibles, toys, educational games, edutainment and much more. They also offer home delivery of products and you can pre-order games as well.
For further information please click here.
6. Simba
(Image courtesy: Simba from their website)
Where: RCity Mall (Ghatkopar)
Simba is an international brand with a solid collection of toys and games. Leading properties like Cars2, Squap and Steffi Love are licensed to Simba. They also are the leaders for back-to-school products featuring poplar characters such as Dora, Spider-Man, the Avengers, Mr. Men and Little Miss and more.
For further information, please click here.
7. Barbie Store
Where: RCity Mall (Ghatkopar), Infiniti Mall (Malad), Oberoi Mall (Goregaon), Horum Mall (Thane), Growel's 101 (Kandivali), Viviana Mall (Thane)
Primarily catering to the apparel whims of girls aged 2-12 years, this chain also also offers toys, dolls, back-to-school gear and accessories.
For further information, please click here.
8. Crosswords
(Image courtesy: Crosswords from their Facebook page)
Where: Kemps Corner, Shivaji Park, Sion, Bandra, Juhu, Malad, Wadala, Goregaon, Kandivali, Ghatkopar, Powai, Andheri, Kurla, Mulund
The popular bookstore also stocks a good range of toys. Crosswords is invariably the store that families turn to for a great range of Lego, Barbie, Fisher Price and board games.
For further information, please click here.
Other stores to consider include:
Kamdhenu, Nepean Sea Road
Toy Kingdom, Malabar Hill
Baby Bell and Green Bell, Juhu
Tital Waves, Bandra
Design Touch, Bandra
Tini Mini, Bandra
Nice Collection, Bandra
Soham Collection, Matunga
Ronak Toy Emporium, Chembur
Bombay Toys, Chembur
Early Learning Centre, Kurla
If you think we've missed a place that belongs on this list, write to us at priya.fonseca@mycity4kids.com