We find a beautiful combination of comfort and intimacy in both the restaurants. What did it take to achieve this in the design brief?
For La Loca Maria, the idea was never to create an overtly Spanish space but rather an interpretation of Spanish architecture that feels organic, warm and inviting. The design naturally reflects that balance, with soft, earthy tones of beige, greens, whites and browns that take inspiration from Chef Manuel’s hometown Toledo in Spain. Almost every table has a view of the buzzing open kitchen at the heart of the restaurant, reinforcing that sense of connection. From the stone-clad arches and hand-painted murals (by ZaWorks) that celebrate Spanish culture to the art deco chandelier that anchors the room, everything is designed to feel immersive yet effortless. And the private dining room is one of my favourite corners!
With La Panthera, we wanted something entirely different—bold, dramatic and effortlessly chic while still feeling intimate. Every detail is intentional. The coffered ceiling, the vintage-inspired chandeliers, the grand 15-foot commissioned artwork (by ZaWorks) ‘The Beast Within’ — all of it contributes to this layered, sophisticated atmosphere. The 21-foot marble and wood bar is another key element. The arches, textured walls and velvet drapes add that final touch of richness and depth, making the space feel luxurious yet welcoming.
At the core of both restaurants is the same philosophy—design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about how a space makes you feel.
How was sustainability and local craftsmanship an important factor in the making of the restaurants?
The artwork in both restaurants, created by Zahabiya Gabajiwala of Za Works, plays a huge role in shaping their character.
At La Panthera, we commissioned a bold 21-foot piece called The Beast Within—a striking exploration of the primal, instinctive side of human nature. It’s raw, untamed and perfectly in sync with the restaurant’s energy. Beyond the artwork, craftsmanship is at the heart of our design philosophy. All our woodwork is sourced from skilled local artisans, with each piece custom-made to fit our vision. Their attention to detail doesn’t just enhance the aesthetic—it allows us to support and celebrate local talent, something we truly believe in.
What’s coming up next?
At La Loca Maria, we’re working on a special limited-time menus—new flavours, new experiences and a few surprises along the way. We also have some exciting collaborations in the pipeline.
Over at La Panthera, we’re gearing up for delivery and with that, we’re bringing back some crowd favourites—our smashing burgers and chocolate mousse. So, look out for that! We’re also introducing seasonal tasting menus and planning a few unexpected pop-ups!
