From 2023 into 2024! 15 restaurants in India that set the stage for palatable food and design

Nothing makes us happier than delicious food, but what about when it’s combined with a thoughtfully designed space with looks that make you do a doubletake? Here’s a selection of 15 restaurants in India that made a multitude of cuisines climb up the pinnacle of culinary artistry and shaped design that stuns at every glance!

Caffeowl, Pune
Caffeowl, a contemporary cafe designed by Fictive Five Design Studio is a must-visit when in Pune. The blend of soft neutral tones with bohemian accents, create an inviting and serene ambience, and give the space a very earthy and organic feel. A very prominent centre piece, that serves as a visual and captures the essence of fluidity, is the wave-inspired design elements on the walls, also giving the space a touch of drama. The furniture layout is designed in a way which prioritises a balance between the open and intimate corners. Presence of soft, warm lighting and natural lighting, creates a calm and soothing ambience. Elements like end-to-end glass facade and a customised cane pendant light fixtures which are centrally placed in space, act as a point of attraction to passers-by. 

Where: Shop No. 12, Global High Street, EON Free Zone, Kharadi, Pune, Maharashtra 411014

Four Lost Cats, Nashik
Situated in Nashik, Maharashtra, is the cat-friendly cafe, Four Lost Cats, designed by Architects Sagar Lohar and Saniya Jejani, principal architects of Ladlab. Every material, from upholstery to finishes, has been carefully designed to withstand the playful antics of the feline. The lower level emits a calming blue hue, while the upper floor is enveloped in a peachy glow. The double-height ceiling is adorned with delicate white paper lights that cast a warm and dramatic glow, enhancing the beauty of the coloured walls while maintaining a perfect balance. The main concept was colour blocking which would help the compact space make a visual impact, with its all-white furniture and accent lights standing contrast against the vibrant backdrops. 

Where: Plot no. 14, Ajinkyatara building, D.K. nagar Swani Vivekanand marg, Gangapur Rd, Nashik, Maharashtra 422013

Just Loaf Cafe, Thrissur
A cafe which encourages oneness and universality is Just Loaf Cafe, in Thrissur, designed by Cochin Creative Collective. Their belief for togetherness and oneness, inspired the idea of a community table, which takes on an important role and different forms in each of Just Loaf’s outlets. Without any adornment, and lacking references to any religion or circumstantial cues, the table is free of baggage and prejudice, implying no ranks or hierarchy, it simply is one grid to unite the world. The grid devoid of forms and shapes, establishes itself as the centre of the space, physically and metaphorically. 

Where: 3rd Floor, Sitaram Tejal Nate Mall, Ashwini Jn, Vasanth Nagar, Patturaikkal, Thrissur, Kerala 680020

Basil Box, Delhi
Huddled within the vibrant streets of Delhi, lies Basil Box designed by Studio Dot, serving as a culinary haven that blends authentic Italian cuisine with contemporary design elements. The layout skillfully merges the indoor and outdoor seating, the ambience evokes the charm of an Italian restaurant, and immerses the visitors in a one a king experience. Terracotta being used as the prime material, is the facade featuring two slit windows, giving the passers by a sneak peek into the Italian Kitchen. Preserving tradition, the terracotta tiles are carried inside through a moss green gate with fluted glass panels, where terracotta and Calcaterra lime walls, PU polished veneer create an enchanting and elegant atmosphere, while also allowing the food to shine. The overall visual language is bold and friendly and is a gathering hub for inspirations, laughter and creating memories. 

Where: 3rd floor, Emaya mall, Block BG 2, Punjabi bagh, New Delhi, Delhi, 110063

All Eyes on Me, Gujarat
With elements of Scandinavian design lies a restaurant in Bharuch, Gujarat dubbed All Eyes on Me designed by P&D Associates’ duo Pratik Siddhpura and Devang Patel. Seating 98 guests, the restaurant reveals an array of cosy round tables, window sittings, and communal sitting with small tables. The space also accommodates a private dining room, for a traditional dining experience big enough for family and formal gatherings. The design is predominated by exposed brick on the wall, made by chipping away the plaster and paint of the existing space. To separate the lounge and dining space, a massive arched brick wall has been centrally placed, which contrasts with the veneer wall cladding and open ceiling, making the design seem chic and premium to patrons.

Where: All Eyes on Me, Mayuri Square, Dahej Bypass Rd, Aakansha Nagri, Sherpura, Bharuch, Gujarat 392001

The Den, Goa
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines the allure of The Godfather and the gritty charm of Peaky Blinders, look no further than The Den by Studio Praia. Immerse yourself in the rich atmosphere, from the arched corridor to the cigar lounge and the bar. Against the charcoal-coloured interiors, leather-finish Kadappa stone on the floor coexists with the custom teak furniture illuminated by the soft glow of the brass light fixtures. While you enjoy mouthwatering cuisines, become part of the story, as you savour the taste of your favourite drink, set on the terrazzo table tops, crafted from recycled alcohol bottles in blue and green. 

Where: Sitara Atrium , 4th floor Colmorod Navelim, Margao, Goa 403601

Bawri, Assagao, Goa
Nurtured by the vibrant bamboo craft and pottery markets of Goa that honours local craftsmanship, Bawri, chef Amninder Sandhu’s passion project, designed by Orphic Design Studio and led by Vivek Guha, infuses the ambience with an evocative vernacular spirit. Upon entry, a fluid water promenade guides guests to the heart of the dining expanse where an 18-foot canopy pavilion serves as a sentinel of culinary passion, housing an open-flame Indian kitchen where tandoors and grills choreograph a live performance. 

The visual narrative harmonises organic textures, hues, and forms in an unrestrained tableau. Seating options, ranging from open-air alcoves to semi-sheltered corners, each provide a unique connection to nature. By the water’s edge, enjoy an unparalleled dining experience, paying homage to traditional Indian dining while a collection of tropical greenery interlaces the space from every corner.

Where: House No. 3, Survey no. 161/11, Saunta Vaddo, Assagao, Bardez, Goa 403507

Pep House, Gujarat
At the heart of it all, lies the delicate equilibrium between patterns, prints, colours, and materials — P&S Associates skillfully orchestrated not to overwhelm the senses. Within Pep House, encompassing three distinct realms: secluded dining enclaves, communal seating zones, and vibrant live areas boasting a buffet counter, mocktail bar and an inviting bakery, is the overarching vision to cocoon guests within a realm that tantalises from the first glance. Animal prints adorn the walls with biophilic interiors. The glint of metallic ceilings, the gold-plated installations, the cool touch of marble underfoot, and the dramatic veins of onyx on the buffet counter — all converge to evoke the essence of a tropical forest. An ensemble of artworks, installations, wall prints, moulded ceilings, printed furnishings, gold-finished planters and an array of elements form a chorus, craft an indelible and cherishing experience. 

Where: GF 6,7,8, Patron, Rajpath Rangoli Rd, opp. Kensvile golf academy, PRL Colony, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380054

Melt, Delhi – NCR
Crafted by Tanya Chutani from Pantone Collective Design Studio, Melt is a sprawling 10,000 sqft opus that stands as the city’s inaugural chocolate-infused cocktail haven. Within this grand canvas, Pantone Collective deftly wove a tapestry of fluid architecture and volumetric surfaces with an audacious selection of blue as a foil to the chocolate liqueur theme injecting vitality and visual intrigue, imparting a colour-block punctuation that amplifies the overarching aesthetic. Step into a world where chocolate and cocktails intertwine, where design and taste harmonise, and where each visit evolves into an unforgettable celebration.

Where: 2 and 3, 5th floor, Tower-E, Skymark One, Sector 98, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201304

Tertulia, Goa
Get swept away by Tertulia, a hidden gem nestled in Panjim, Goa, that’s not just a bar but an architectural wonder by Otherworlds. This place effortlessly shifts gears from a relaxing daytime hangout to a high-energy rhythmic refuge when the sun goes down. Channelling the essence of susegad living and the lively spirit of Goan nights, Tertulia’s sprawling balcony, under a lush bamboo canopy, repurposes a Goan villa for its vibrant existence. The bar isn’t just a place to grab a drink – it’s where you can perch on benches and soak in the warmth. Sunbeams playfully cast patterns on custom features and marble floors that mimic the sky. Crafted by local artisans, the whimsical petal lights to the curvy chairs come together in a symphony of design, recreating the joy of porch lounging, an embodiment of Goa’s atmosphere. 

Where: Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, opposite Times of India, Miramar, Panaji, Goa 403001

Butter, Pune
Butter by Minnie Bhatt Design Studio is a space that radiates a relaxed, casual aura while embracing a universally soothing colour palette and natural elements. Picture textured pale pink walls — a nod to the studio’s colours, intertwined with cane, wood, and earthy stones, abundant tropical greenery, alongside the playfully vibrant festoon lights, rope, woven palm leaf canopies, and the inviting wood and terracotta bar area — all cultivating a joyful atmosphere. The union of indoor and outdoor spaces transpires effortlessly through expansive clear glass windows, weaving together a visual narrative that beckons you to experience the blend of relaxation and jubilation.

Where: Survey No. 18/2A, Vasudha V-18, Unit R-1, Ground Floor, Balewadi High St, Pune, Maharashtra 411045

Pepito, Ahmedabad

Like a breath of fresh air, Pepito founded by Sujit Mehta, Harsh Dutta and Sharmila Shah, in Ahmedabad serves up a medley of cuisines from Asian to Mediterranean. Adapting an all white look, is this 13,500-square-foot bistro that brings a whiff of every cuisine they offer in their interiors. From sushi to Neapolitan pizzas in food and cold cortados to warm teas in beverages, Pepito has covered it all! 

Like food garnished with spices, the interiors of Pepito offers a bohemian chic flair with greens surrounding the space. Allowing the food to take over on the white interior canvas, this space echoes a blend of flavourful design (quite literally)!

Where: Pepito, Plot no. 88/1, Shott gaming zone, B/h, Sindhu Bhavan Marg, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380054

Daman Culture, Daman and Diu
Near Jampore Beach, Daman Culture designed by D’arc Studio stands tall with two key building blocks, A and B, beckoning the creation of an extraordinary sundowner bar that nestles seamlessly within its natural enclaves. Across an expansive 12,500 sq. ft. canvas, the ground floor is the heartbeat of the design that pulses through an enchanting café bar, where nature’s touch mixes with organic materials to foster an authentic connection. Terrace B unfurls a tapestry reminiscent of a shamiana terrace, harmonising natural elements with an ambience fit for collective revelry. Amidst the existing features of terrace A, such as a pool and structural elements, artistic ingenuity intertwines with regulatory compliance, birthing an oasis that leaves you in awe upon arrival and each moment etches an indelible memory.

Where: Survey No 65, 1, Jampore Beach Rd, Jampore, Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396220

Zero, Surat
In a remarkable display of innovation, the restaurant Zero embraces a zero-waste philosophy, incorporating repurposed materials into its design. Created by Studio A+S. The existing car showroom structure, tin roof shed, and glass windows are enveloped in an inclined facade made from salvaged steel and Mangalore tiles. Furniture, crafted from six truckloads of wood from the client’s ancestral home, showcases the carpenters’ skill in creating uniformity despite the wood’s diverse shapes. Stone, sourced from the same ancestral home, provides durable exterior seating, while kota stone, epoxy, and new tiles create an intricate flooring pattern. Even hanging light enclosures are ingeniously made from cardboard packaging waste.

Where: ZERO The restaurant, VIP Road, beside Nandini 3, Vesu, Surat, Gujarat 394518′

Madam G, Kolkata
A new destination for haute-cuisine patrons is Madam G in Kolkata, serving contemporary Indian Cuisine that bears the insignia of traditional yet modern ethos. This elegant gourmet diner, designed by Ajay Arya of A Square Designs, has rich notes of copper and gold, contrasting with the small colour palette of charcoal and beige primarily.  The matka which is used in India to store water, takes the form of lighting installations, along with foil work on decor, depicting the use of varakq, usually used to garnish Indian sweets. One of the key highlights of the restaurant is the art wall by Eeshaan Kashyap, winner of our EDIDA India 2023 awards, featuring a tactile mirage of vibrant colours steeped in symbolism. The menu is a blend of all regional cuisines, bringing together exceptional gems from Coorg, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and many other states, catering to all age groups. 

Where: 2, Lee Road, Altitude – The Business Park, 2nd Floor, West Bengal, Kolkata 700020 

Loca, New Delhi
Here to elevate your dining experience is Loca, in New Delhi. Designed by The Melange Studio, the restaurant overlooks the vibrant market square, inspired to transform from a daytime brunch oasis to a night party destination. The lime plastered walls create a warm tactile environment whereas the flooring is adorned with micro-concrete. Upon entrance, the guests are greeted by a striking red bar, adorned with red handmade fluted tiles. 

The centrally positioned bar offers a unique vantage point for guests to embrace the indoor seating area or opt for the outdoor balcony high table seating zone. The pendant lights present in the balcony, add a touch of artistry and dimension to the outdoor seating experience. With the richness of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, Loca introduces a tasteful fusion of vibrant architecture with old Italian charm. 

Where: N2, 3rd Floor, N Block Market, Greater Kailash 1 (GK 1), New Delhi

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