11 restaurants across India for delicious summer-friendly lunches
Light lunches with big flavours are in.
We can complain about the scorching summer heat endlessly. But if there is one thing that we truly embrace, even in the unbearable heat, it is the seasonal produce and delicacies of the season. From mango-based dishes and desserts, to kokum drinks, and icy cold mocktails (or cocktails if you really don’t want the heat to bother you), the summer season welcomes a diverse range of sweet, savoury, and bold flavours that we just can’t get enough of. And if I'm being honest, the food is the only thing that makes me look forward to summer. If you're anything like me, then you have to take a look at our bona fide list of restaurants serving some truly wholesome summer menus and lunches.
Lyla, BKC
If fusion is what you are looking for, Lyla is the place to be. Fusing Mexican delicacies with Californian flavours, Lyla is an all-day cocktail bar where you can be assured that your brunches or lunches are nothing short of a feast. From crunchy tacos and cheesy enchiladas, boasting a variety of seasonal flavours and organic ingredients, to tres leches cakes, and churros, satisfy all your sweet tooth cravings at Lyla in Mumbai.
Kembara, BKC
Can we all just agree that there is a certain comfort in Asian food? The way the mind leans towards Asian cuisine when pondering over what to eat is proof enough. And if you are one to agree, I say you book your next lunch at Kembara. Choose to enjoy their set lunch menus featuring a mix of Japanese, Malay, Thai, and Vietnamese flavours, allowing you to sample a little bit of everything. Pair your meal with a delightful cocktail like serenity sip, which champions sweet notes of lychee and jasmine tea.
Nouba Kitchen and Bar, Jaipur
Rooftop restaurants may not be the best choice for summers, but Nouba manages to make rooftop dining a must-try, regardless of the time or season. From sushi and rolls borrowed from the far east to Indian favourites like galouti kebabs and tandoori-tasting platters that give you a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to choose from, Nouba has got to be the destination where you can savour the best of Asian food. And if the food menu has already got you drooling, wait till you check out their beverage menu, which boasts all kinds of berry-licious and floral cocktails that are just to exciting to miss out on.
Pa Pa Ya, BKC
A warm and inviting Asian bistro, Pa Pa Ya has on offer a plethora of pan-Asian delicacies like sushi, dim sums, pho, and som tam to name a few. And if seasonal flavours are what you're looking for, then Pa Pa Ya's special mango festival menu presents the fruit in a variety of dishes and cocktails.
Out of the Blue, Khar
Weekend brunches are a time to enjoy fruity mimosas, the aroma of freshly baked goods, and delicious food. So if you’ve got something similar on your mind, we suggest you book a table at Out of the Blue. Pick from their pastas, burgers, fondues, or even salads, and treat yourself to their summer cocktails.
Soy, Surat
Soy, an Asian vegetarian restaurant, is a definite pick for all my vegetarian friends reading this. Get spoiled for choice as you rummage through an array of baos, curries, noodles, and more. In the spirit of summer, they also have on offer a decadent mango tres leches cake and volcano rolls that come with a hint of tropical sweetness and spice. Head over for an extravagant vegetarian meal, and don’t forget to order dessert!
Burma Burma, Ahmedabad
If you’ve had an overload of Asian food by now, it's time to switch gears and sample the regional delicacies of Burma Burma. Head over for an authentic Burmese-style lunch as you enjoy their soups, salads, and steamed buns, and don’t forget to pair your meal with their all-new range of bubble teas. With flavours boasting the goodness of mango, hibiscus, and biscoff, you can now beat the heat with their teas and icy-cool desserts in style and taste.
Pompa, Bandra
For those of you who love good Mexican fare, paired with their favourite mezcal and tequilas, Pompa is the place to be. Tune into Latin-American beats as you choose from traditional Mexican dishes complemented by innovative cocktails. We definitely recommend the fajitas and the POMPA Picante drink made with lime, cilantro, and jalapenos or the Picante El Mango, made with mango salsa.
Hello Sunshine, Goa
We don't know about you, but we go crazy for eateries that are all about local and seasonal produce. And this is exactly why Hello Sunshine, a breakfast and brunch cafe, has caught our attention. This cosy neighbourhood eatery boasts a wholesome vegetarian menu, with the occasional egg-based dishes here and there. Should you visit this bright and jovial spot, don’t miss out on their falafel wraps or their delectable crepes with honey and cinnamon.
Bombay Brasserie, Bangalore
Recently opening its doors in Malleshwaram, Bombay Brasserie is the place to be if you enjoy spending time with art pieces and immersing yourself in a culturally rich experience. Bombay Brasserie offers a menu rife with unique dishes, paying tribute to responsibly sourced Indian ingredients. Do try their South-inspired mushroom pepper taco and curried butter parotta, paired with a tipple of your choice. Seal the deal with icy treats like the chocolate rocky road and Bombay ice cream sandwich.
NAAR X Indian Accent, BKC
Chef Prateek Sadhu, renowned for his avant-garde approach to Indian cuisine, joins chef Manish Mehrotra at Indian Accent for a 2-day culinary pop-up on June 22 and 23. This event promises a unique blend of Himalayan and modern Indian flavours, celebrating the rich heritage of Indian cuisine with innovative techniques. Guests can sample dishes like Indian Accent’s lemon crab and ghee lamb, alongside NAAR’s pahadi pork and Ladhakhi sausages. This collaboration offers a symphony of flavours, making it an unforgettable culinary experience that showcases the best of both chefs' expertise and creativity.
Lead image credit: Detales Brand Communications
Also read: 8 new restaurants and menus across India to try out right now