Pan-Asian Elegance Unveiled
In Mumbai, Torii stands as a testament to Gauri Khan's vision, offering a luxurious pan-Asian fusion experience. This celebrity hotspot artfully blends
Japanese, Thai, and Latin Asian influences, all curated within an environment designed by Khan herself. The restaurant's bold aesthetic and sophisticated culinary offerings mark a significant debut in India's hospitality sector, creating a dynamic space where elevated cuisine meets striking design. Torii quickly established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking an exclusive and flavorful journey through Asia.
Punjabi Roots Revived
Chef Amninder Sandhu breathes life into Punjabi culinary traditions at Kikli in Delhi. This restaurant is a celebration of heritage, utilizing time-honored slow-cooking methods and traditional firewood techniques to recreate authentic flavors. Situated within a beautifully restored heritage building, Kikli embodies Sandhu's profound connection to family recipes and the art of regional storytelling. Beyond Kikli, her influence extends to other successful establishments like Bawri and Barbet & Pals, showcasing a consistent dedication to preserving and presenting India's rich gastronomic history with skill and passion.
Italian Classics Perfected
Diva in Delhi, under the guidance of Chef Ritu Dalmia, is an acclaimed Italian dining institution renowned for its masterful execution of classic pastas, pizzas, and refined dishes. Dalmia's deep affection for Italian gastronomy permeates the establishment, offering patrons exquisitely handcrafted pasta, authentic wood-fired pizzas, and a meticulously chosen wine list. As the flagship of her restaurant group, Diva profoundly reflects Dalmia's pioneering impact on the evolution of modern fine dining within India, setting a benchmark for excellence and sophistication.
Nostalgic Comfort Cuisine
Malaika Arora, co-owner of Scarlet House in Mumbai, has cultivated a cozy neighborhood eatery that beautifully marries nostalgic design with wholesome, comforting food. Housed within a venerable 90-year-old Indo-Portuguese bungalow, the restaurant radiates Arora's commitment to wellness, warmth, and unhurried dining experiences. Collaborating with Arhaan Khan, Dhaval Udeshi, and Malaya Nagpal, she has fostered an inviting ambiance that feels both lively and intimately home-like, making it a cherished local spot.
Modern Indian Flavors
Madam G, established in Kolkata by Drishleen Sethi, introduces a contemporary perspective on Indian cuisine. The restaurant artfully merges coastal and regional Indian flavors with imaginative presentation, thoughtful interior design, and inventive cocktails. Building on her prior successes with ventures like Ping's Cafe Orient and SAZ, Sethi brings a similar flair for creativity to Madam G, crafting a vibrant atmosphere where bold tastes and stylish aesthetics coalesce seamlessly.
Goan Soulful Cooking
In Goa, the Lake View Restaurant in Siridao is the brainchild of Smita Surendranath Blaggan, whose culinary inspirations stem from a rich tapestry of Punjabi, Maharashtrian, Goan, and Konkani influences. Blaggan's devotion to sourcing the freshest ingredients and her practice of grinding her own spices impart a distinctively homemade quality to each dish. What began as a post-retirement passion project has blossomed into a beloved establishment celebrated for its deeply satisfying and authentic flavors.
Homely Italian Charm
Arshita Singhvi's Donna Cucina in Pune began as a personal exploration of Italian cooking that ultimately evolved into a thriving restaurant. The establishment is characterized by Singhvi's signature handmade pasta, delicious wood-fired pizzas, and a warm, villa-inspired setting that exudes a comforting, familiar ambiance. Her unwavering emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and traditional culinary methods has solidified Donna Cucina's reputation as a favored Italian dining destination in Pune.
Karnataka's Authentic Tastes
Bengaluru Oota Company, founded by Divya Prabhakar, serves as a heartfelt ode to the distinctive flavors of Karnataka that shaped her upbringing. As a seventh-generation Gowda, she draws upon her family's cherished recipes, ancestral cooking techniques, and extensive hospitality background. Prabhakar has meticulously created an intimate, reservation-only space where patrons can savor seasonal Gowda and Mangalorean dishes prepared with the authentic touch found in traditional home kitchens.
Craft Cocktails & Cozy Vibes
Co-owned by Minakshi Singh, Sidecar in Delhi has earned acclaim as one of India's most cherished craft cocktail bars. Spread across two inviting levels, the venue masterfully combines innovative mixology with a relaxed, welcoming environment. Featuring artisanal cocktails, a charming small bookstore cafe, and a vibrant bar scene, Sidecar perfectly embodies Singh's vision of creating a space that is both creatively stimulating and effortlessly accessible to all patrons.
Neighborhood Bar Comfort
Kona Kona in Mumbai, conceptualized by Mona Singh, offers a neighborhood bar experience that immediately evokes a sense of comfort and familiarity. The culinary creations, developed by chefs Jasleen Marwah and Neetu Solanki, deliver comforting flavors alongside unpretentious yet delightful drinks. Drawing inspiration from Mona Singh's personal memories and travels, the bar infuses a charming retro aesthetic with cozy nooks, cultivating an inviting atmosphere that encourages patrons to return time and again.
