8 new restaurants and menus across India to try out right now 

With the monsoon in full swing, it seems like it’s raining new culinary experiences, too, with brand-new restaurants and menus to try across the country. There’s a Turkish spot in Bengaluru serving up authentic Middle Eastern fare, a brand-new restaurant in Mumbai’s Bandra neighbourhood with a North Indian menu, and a playful bar in Delhi. Bookmark these places for the next time you’re wondering where to eat. 

Mumbai 

Shifuku 

Founded by Aman Singh and Monika Rathore, Shifuku in Andheri is Mumbai’s latest pan-Asian spot promising a wide variety of sushi, interesting mains, and Asian-inspired desserts. While the menu has been curated by chef Ritesh Tulsian, the sushi bar is helmed by chef Jai Prakash Singh. Try signatures like the crunchy avocado roll, the prawn tempura and salmon tartare roll, and tomato and cream cheese nigiri, among others. If you’re a fan of dumplings, then don’t miss out on the truffle edamame dumplings, or the spicy prawn coriander dumplings. For something more filling, opt for the mapo tofu, Korean kimchi fried rice, or the lamb in a spicy sauce. Round off your meal with the many ice cream flavours on offer or the decadent nutella banana sushi. 

Jhelum 

Pali Hill in Bandra is known for its string of chic restaurants and cafes, and the newly-launched Jhelum breaks away from the trend of spots serving up global cuisines by doling out North Indian fare. The cosy, intimate 30-seater restaurant is named after the Jhelum river that runs through north India and Pakistan, the region whose dishes you’ll find on the menu. Dig into dishes like dahi kebabs, paneer sofiyani tikka, murgh malai kebabs, and more. Of course, there are plenty of other dishes on the menu, too—from Pindi chole, paya masala (goat trotters), to flavourful biryanis. End your decadent meal on a sweet note with “meethi yaadein”, an indulgent rice pudding or the classic malpua, a sweet pancake soaked in syrup and topped with nuts. 

Nksha—new menu

Nksha, the recently-opened North Indian restaurant at Churchgate has a brand-new seasonal menu. From cheese kulchas, and roasted sweet potato tikki chaat, to lobster curry, there are quite a few new dishes to try out. Pair your meal with their innovative cocktails that go perfectly with the bold flavours. 

Anglo-Indian Café & Bistro, Lonavala

The next time you’re on your way to Pune or Lonavala, skip the insipid fare at the Food Hall and head to Anglo-Indian Café & Bistro for a satisfying meal instead. The charming café and bistro serves up a mix of small and big plates—choose from mushroom kebabs, or brioche pav served with a pav-bhaji-based soup. For something even more indulgent, sample the baked biryani, kasundi paneer tikka, and more. No meal should end without something sweet in our opinion, so finish with the creative chikki cheesecake or the traditional sizzling brownie. Perfect for monsoon!

Bengaluru 

Soley 

Soley is a brand-new European bistro helmed by chef Viraf Patel, who’s previously consulted at Mumbai establishments like Salt Water Cafe, The Table and Neuma. During your visit here, savour a host of dishes that span cuisines—from Italian classics to Mediterranean fare with an Indian flair. Sample the small plates like cauliflower croquettes, grilled chicken thighs, and refreshing salads like arugula and the apple, among others. For the mains, try the lasagne, the creamy cacio e pepe, or the wholesome brioche chicken sando.  

Öz by Kebapci 

Bengaluru has a new Turkish spot to enjoy flavourful kebabs, dolma, and grilled meats at Öz by Kebapçi is an expansive 6,000 sq ft. dining space that aims to bring an authentic Turkish experience to the city’s residents. Designed by Istanbul-based Mert Duyal, expect a maximalist, old-world vibe the second you step into the restaurant, thanks to the intricate hand-woven carpets, antique lamps, and ornate decor. During your visit, dig into hearty modern Turkish fare like hand-minced kebabs, fragrant pilafs, stews, and curries, along with traditional dishes like manti (dumplings stuffed with spinach and meat and cooked in a yoghurt-based sauce), and dolma (rolled grapevine leaves stuffed with rice). 

Delhi 

Khi khi 

You’re in for a fun time at Khi Khi, given its name means giggling in Hindi! The new bar in Vasant Vihar incorporates playfulness everywhere—from the vibrant interiors that include fun murals to cocktails that come with a twist. From a popcorn-flavoured highball to a paloma featuring citrus, ginger, and kokum—take your pick from the extensive menu. And to complement your drink, pick from a selection of Indian-inspired small plates like Kaladi cheese olive oil bread, cream and onion chicken tikka, and more.
 
Mezze Mambo 

The GK2 neighbourhood of Delhi has become a hot favourite with the city’s diners as more new restaurants and cafes crop up in the area. The latest is Mezze Mambo, a chic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spot promising plenty of mezze (Middle Eastern small bites) along with fun cocktails and a groovy vibe. The menu has been curated by chef Megha Kohli, who’s also behind successful joints like Cafe Mez in Gurugram, The Wine Company, and Mademoiselle in Goa.