This winter’s dining scene blends seasonal comfort with bold new concepts. From rooftop set lunches in Bengaluru to strawberry-led desserts in Mumbai, here are the most promising menus and openings to watch
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Rooftop Reflections: Kai, Bengaluru
Perched 13 floors above MG Road, Kai has launched Zenith by Kai, a 3- and 5-course set lunch designed by Head Chef Virendra Singh Chauhan. Expect globally inspired plates from Tom Yam Gai and truffled dim sums to Penang curry and single-origin chocolate desserts priced at ₹999 (3-course) and ₹1,299 (5-course). By day, the rooftop’s panoramic views turn a routine lunch into a slow, sensory pause.
Kai’s Penthouse Brunch translates the same ethos into a high-energy weekend ritual: DJ-led sets, champagne pours and a shareable menu that pairs porcine and seafood mains with inventive small plates. Packages start at ₹3,750++ for alcoholic brunch service.
Strawberry Season: Vanilla Beans, Mumbai
Bandra’s cloud kitchen Vanilla Beans leans into strawberry season with new Nutella-studded creations: the crisp Nutella Strawberry Krispy Kunafa and the textural Nutella Strawberry Crunchy Crumble. The cult-favourite Nutella Strawberry Cake returns in tubs (from ₹250) alongside vegan and sugar-free options, perfect for gifting or intimate desserts.
Warming Bowls & Dumplings: Hunaaan, Bengaluru
Indiranagar’s Pan‑Asian favourite Hunaaan introduces a winter menu built on comforting broths and handcrafted dim sums. Tom Yum, Tom Kha and Thai-spiced dumplings lead into richer mains that invite slow sharing, ideal for cosy weekday dinners or lingering weekend meals.
Pet-Friendly Festivities: Zane’s Cafe, Mumbai
Zane’s Cafe & Pet Spa debuts a limited Christmas menu of winter pancakes, grilled mains and a signature hot‑chocolate flight. Think Winter Berry Pancakes, Slow-Cooked Lamb, panna cotta with strawberries and a three‑flight hot chocolate tasting, a seasonal draw for diners and their furry companions.
Cozy Plates Across Navi Mumbai: KOA Cafe & Bar
KOA’s new winter lineup spans Vashi and Thane with five shareable plates designed to warm the table: Crispy Lotus Root in Honey Chilli, Lemongrass Chicken Skewers, Basil Paneer Tikka, Buffalo Wings and Bhatti Ka Murgh. Casual, Mediterranean‑inspired settings make these menus easy to enjoy with friends.
Lizard King Brewing Co., Arpora (Goa)
Opened 26 Oct 2025. A beer‑first brewpub marrying bold, small‑batch beers with pub food and rock‑inspired interiors. Expect ciders, a rotating saison, and a loud, intimate vibe.
Loco Lane, Bengaluru
A 12,000‑sqft competitive‑socialising venue with bowling, axe‑throwing, interactive darts and shuffleboard, paired with cocktails and shareable plates. Designed for groups and playful nights out.
SALT, WTC Chennai
The modern‑Indian brand returns to Chennai with a refined second outlet showcasing signature kebabs, curries and an updated dining experience.
One Floor Down, Bengaluru
A Dionysian speakeasy with theatrical cocktails, privacy‑first rules and a 27+ entry policy — an intentionally provocative addition to the city’s nightlife.
Nanna House, Bandra (Mumbai)
A breakfast‑led spot celebrating Andhra morning classics: pesarattu, millet‑cone idli, button idlis and robust filter kaapi. Fast‑moving mornings, authentic flavours.
This season’s highlights show two clear tendencies: comfort-first seasonal menus that encourage slow, shared dining; and next‑gen hospitality concepts that prioritise experience, music, play, craft beverages and intimacy. Whether you’re chasing a skyline set lunch, strawberry indulgence, pampered pet brunch, or a rebel brewpub, the winter calendar is packed.
