From sake bars and Punjabi kitchens to cafés that feel like time-travel, India’s dining scene is buzzing with new spaces where interiors matter just as much as the food. Bookmark these seven restaurants and cafés that are as much about design as they are about flavour.
Wagamama, Mumbai
Craving serenity in the middle of Mumbai? Wagamama delivers it the Japanese way. Located in the historic Cambata Building, the restaurant is a masterclass in minimalism with clean lines, modern materials, and plenty of natural light. An open kitchen adds energy, while communal benches make sure you never dine alone.
Kikli, Delhi NCR
Kikli, located in CP, Delhi, is a Punjabi Restaurant. Designed by Ariane Thakore Ginwala the blend of desi and modern style, the bright colours are bound to transform you into the whimsical world of old Punjab and are guaranteed to make you feel the essence of traditional North India.
Latango, Delhi NCR
This oceanic theme high energy dining spot in Nehru Place, New Delhi, is know for its European and Japanese cuisine. Designed by Vivek Guha of Orphic Design, the glass slab in the coral green color, the textures on the walls and the sandy color of the furniture, along with the drinks and food, is bound to transport you to beaches with the serenity of waves crashing on the shore
Katana, Bengaluru
Designed by George Seemon, Katana is a 45-seater Sake and Shochu cocktail bar, the concept of which is modeled on traditional izakayas with a modern approachable design. Here you see the traditional Japanese design clashing and mixing with bold deep colors that goes perfectly with traditional Japanese liquor.
LOQA, Hyderabad
LOQA, derived from the Telugu word Lokum, which means universe, is the perfect word to describe this Cocktail room. Designed by Sonna Reddy Studio, the combination of deep blue and green hues and a little bit of orange, makes this space feel like you have stepped into an entirely new reality.
Riko, Bengaluru
Riko, the new Peruvian-Latin Restaurant in Bengaluru, India, represents the natural landscapes and textures of Peru. Designed by The Kofteci Group, the restaurants contributes largely to cultural storytelling are hand painted murals, sculptural clay installation of Andean Mountains, hand laid stone, and terracotta. The red hued booth contrasts with a mirrored ceiling, adding depth and visual interest.
Café Lento, Goa
This cafe in Goa can easily be aliased “A Living Cafe” or a “Bibliophile’s paradise”. Designed by Ayaz Basrai, this cafe strives to create a space that feels lived in and timeless. Reminiscent of old Goan houses being taken over by nature, the central element of the design is nature and it embraces a ruin aesthetic.
