#VocalForLocal: New Restaurants To Try In India
If we had to sit down and make a list of things we missed the most in the past year and a half, eating at restaurants, soaking in the ambience, bringing flavours from around the world to our palates, would easily be somewhere on top. The sound of soft music playing in the background, the delicious aroma that wafts in the air, votive candles that create that specific restaurant mood - food is culture, and there’s just too many things we’ve been longing for that comprise the immersive experience of dining out.
Now that lockdown restrictions have been eased and restaurants are allowed to operate (some as usual, while others at limited capacity), we’ve rounded up the coolest new restaurants to check out. Don’t forget your masks and sanitisers! Here’s Le Mill’s Restaurant Guide:
Mumbai
Joshi House
A Rajasthani haveli in the heart of Bandra, the minimalist Joshi House stands where Pali Village Cafe once stood. With arched columns and a courtyard with a fountain, the tastefully done up space offers a complete escape from what Mumbai residents are used to with flavours from all over India and the world.
Plural
Nestled in the lanes of the Kalaghoda district, Plural offers a delicious menu of sustainable and vegan-friendly options. If you’re someone who loves healthy food, this one’s a must-visit for its experimental South Asian flavours.
OPA Kipos
If you’ve been longing to travel, head to OPA Kipos for a feel of Santorini in Mumbai. The whitewashed walls with blue accents will make you feel like you're on a Grecian holiday. Savoury Mediterranean treats such as cold sharing plates and Greek-style pizzas while watching a Zorba dance performance.
Delhi
Klap
Located in the heart of Khan Market, Klap offers global contemporary cuisine in its menu curated by Chef Gurmehar Sethi. The space has been designed as a “hip reboot of the urban restaurant” and features mosaic floors, gold accents and mixed seating. Perfect for dinner and drinks with the gang.
Kiko-ba
This Asian restaurant in Delhi’s Basant Lok is a great spot for a date. The chic interiors, great lighting and a delectable cocktail menu make it an environment conducive to great conversations. The signature Shiso butter comes highly recommended.
Aquila
Aquila at Ansal Plaza has a gorgeous outdoor seating area inspired by rainforests and an equally well done indoor seating area as well. The restaurant offers Insta-worthy plates and an indulgently curated drinks menu.
Bangalore
Suzy Q by 1522
This newly opened restaurant on Cunningham road has a quirky charm to it. The colourful space offers its take on quintessential Indian snacks, global flavours and innovative cocktails.
Farmlore
Located on a 37-acre natural farm, Bangalore’s newest experimental restaurant offers a nature-inspired menu with former noma and Michelin-starred restaurant chefs.
Hyderabad
Cock & Bull
Tastefully decorated with chandeliers and vintage pieces, Cock & Bull is a luxurious pub whose menu boasts of rare and appealing whiskies and offers Italian, Mediterranean, Continental and British cuisine.
The Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen
Located in Film Nagar, this chic restaurant lives up to its name by offering sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Both the outdoor and indoor seating areas are mesmerising.
Calcutta
Trapeze
Spread across two floors, this new kitchen and bar offers a dim chic vibe with an extensive menu of global cuisines. The space has been conceptualised by Susanne Khan, who serves as the creative head and co-partner of the restaurant.
One8 Commune
This newly opened space in Kolkata is owned by cricketer Virat Kohli, but hardly gives you the feel of a sports bar. With plush interiors in shades of rust, olive green and blue and gorgeous patterned Bidasar marble flooring, the resto-bar is an ode to the city.
