As we get closer to the wrap of 2024, the winds of change are in the air, and more so when paying tribute to traditions, cultures, and stories are restaurants. The culinary and dining scene in Mumbai has undergone a transformation—from a purely dining perspective to a thoughtful and creative one that isn’t just a treat to our palate. It is a loud and proud homage to our heritage, in the best ways possible, using the finest ingredients from across the globe.
October saw some great openings and while we were wrapping our heads around these spectacular restaurants, it is time that we introduce these wonders to you. Curated below are the top 8 new restaurants that you need to bookmark right away! You’re welcome.
Sixteen33
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Bandra and its six villages each carry a story that represents the people and culture they live by. Sixteen33, a cosy new spot situated at the intersection of 16th and 33rd street is a reminder of the rich heritage Bandra is known for. 1633 is a cocktail-forward restaurant that delivers an experience over creative mixology. The signature cocktails named after Bandra’s six villages: Ranwar, Chimbai, Chuim, Pali, Sherly, and Kantwadi are designed in ways you couldn’t imagine. For example, Chuim drink blends white rum, sherry, coconut syrup, and jasmine air, evoking the village’s history of flower cultivation. Chuim also was a showstopper for my tastebuds. When it comes to the interiors, Sixteen33 is a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication. This spot that stands at the intersection is a space for stories to come alive, one cocktail at a time.
Amaru
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When palettes and ideas meet, no two destinations can ever be too far away, especially when creating magic and fusion with food. Introducing Amaru, a restaurant that champions the amalgamation of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, also known as Nikkei cuisine. ‘Unique’ as the name may suggest, Amaru has opened its doors for an immersive dining experience that brings together the finest elements of food, design and atmosphere. Stepping into a space that is filled with natural materials like bamboo, and wood creates an atmosphere which is both refined and inviting. Culinary Director, Chef Nicolas Mandeuno says, “This menu brings Mumbai the opportunity to experience the world of Nikkei Cuisine in its most authentic fashion. Introducing flavours of both worlds, Peruvian and Japanese combined in perfect harmony, let us guide you through this culinary experience as you enter the world of Amaru.” The menu and presentation of dishes is what blew us away. From the careful selection of ingredients that perfectly compliment each other, to the drinks that highlighted the culture of Peru and Japan were both very distinct. Whether it’s your first encounter or a return visit, Amaru promises moments that stay with you, leaving an impression as vivid as the city it resides in.
Onrique
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A boulangerie turned bistro/bar as per your mood or levels, is where Onrique is at. A new dining space designed for the ones who love comfort with a touch of Euro-Korean flair, this is is a never-seen-concept that has been brought to life by Abhimanyu Jakhar. You are greeted with a refined elegance of France, completed by hand-painted murals and furniture adorned with delicate and stunning motifs. Cut to the rooftop that invites you to a serene bliss of the French garden. The menu pays tribute to the classics with a touch of creativity – feel free to sip on fruit juice by the day, and transition to a cocktail in hand by dusk.
Kerala Quarters
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The dishes that South India brings to Mumbai remains unmatched. Kerala’s rich cultural legacy is now at Lower Parel, a hub that houses the best of flavours of Mumbai. Kerala Quarters stands out as a celebration of South India’s rich cuisine in a modern yet traditional setting – paying its respects to the state’s varied flavours. Pankaj Gupta, The Founder Of Kerala Quarter says, “Kerala’s food is far too diverse to be generalised under the broader umbrella of South Indian cuisine. At Kerala Quarters, we’re giving it the spotlight it truly deserves. Our aim is to bring the comfort food we cherish at home to our guests, but with a contemporary twist that resonates with today’s diners. While many restaurants take a traditional approach to Kerala cuisine, we’re focusing on the heart of the food, capturing its warmth and vibrancy without making it too serious.”
Waarsa
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It’s been a while since we’ve seen an Awadhi restaurant open up in Mumbai. Apart from our concept of what Awadhi cuisine stands for, Waarsa in Nariman Point takes the high road and introduces a lighter, fresher take which is abundant in vegetables, with no oil in sight. The idea behind the name is waarsa, or inheritance – that is acquired not only through high end kitchens but also through the delicious meals cooked at home. The blush-tinted interiors overlook the oasis-like lawns, setting the tone for you to dig into delicacies like Batak ke Kabab (duck kebab), and Lagaan Chicken. We list this as a must visit!
Armani Cafe
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Situated adjacent to Giorgio Armani boutique in BKC, a space that celebrates dining, was first opened in 1998 in Paris to echo the Italian fashion designers’ simple yet sophisticated way of living. Armani Cafe showcases the same quiet luxury that defines the designer’s philosophy, following the hues of soft blues and greens with palm-print screens to add a touch of tropical playfulness. The menu is carefully curated to pair authentic Italian food with 52 of the finest wines flown from Italy, 3 champagnes from France, 11 amaro liqueurs, and a set of prohibition-era cocktails. These dishes are a selection by the designer himself and prides itself on the quality of the ingredients used. A total stunner.
Bumipura
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The term 8 signifies change, luck and prosperity to most but in this regard, it signifies the number of cocktails that this restaurant has crafted to excellence. Bumipura is MingYang Chai’s inspiration from his culinary heritage in Singapore and Malaysia. Think, a martini inspired by Hainanese chicken rice. The bar bites revolve around the same flavours such as a chilli crab inspired bao to a nasi lemak bite. Bumipura has a dystopian one-line concept: ‘the year is 2124, India is a superpower and its influence has spread over Singapore and Malaysia. The bar’s goal is to preserve both countries’ rich flavours.’ The interiors of the bar take influence from the caves of Ajanta and Elephanta, which can be seen in the decorative columns that sit in an all black space. The bar and seating area follow a futuristic and sleek vibe. The CR burger was a complete knock out of the park that saw chicken and cucumber sandwiched between seared rice discs. This complete out of the world experience and fantastic flavours is what is sure to keep this place buzzing for a while.
Luv Restaurant
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When a chef decides to switch careers from an artist that paints on canvas to an artist who creates magic on the plate, you’ve got Luv Restaurant. When you step inside, it doesn’t feel like you’re entering a dining space, but rather a friend’s house. The handmade paintings by the chef lends personality and warmth which perfectly travels to the dishes that come packed with flavour and creativity. We personally gravitated towards the Lamb Tacos with Chimichurri and Bombay Duck toast, along with the gnocchi and the pan-fried gyoza. Finally, Starry Night by Van Gogh, a dessert which had an excellent presentation, without going overboard warrants a second visit.
Images: Brands respectively
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