Leisure Archives - ELLE DECOR

Why should kids have all the fun—bookmark these resorts in India that host adventures for your child and the child in you

As children, we have all earnestly wished to jump to the greener side of the seemingly smooth-sailing adult life. While as adults, the heightened desire to go back to our carefree childhood days in just the blink of an eye has often kept us busy daydreaming of the unrestricted playgrounds, spine-tingling amusement parks, breezy mountain treks with views of the neighbourhood hills and river, wildlife safaris and lots of leisurely hours away from our screens…does that sound like you’re due for some much-needed adventure?

As Children’s Day knocks on our doors and wakes us up from the dulcet daydreams, trust ED to take you on a refreshing rollercoaster ride with its curated selection of five hotels and resorts in India that host unmissable adventures and outdoor activities for your child and that ever-intrigued inner child in you!

Scroll down and take your pick for the weekend…

Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli

One of the most famed properties by the Accor Group, Novotel Hotels found its way to Mumbai’s neighbouring town of Khopoli to transpire a magical world of entertainment and adventures called Novotel Imagicaa. Whether you are a child bitten by the carnival bug or an adult smitten by the idea of electrifying experiences, Novotel Imagicaa lets you unwind at its pristine resort with well-planned amenities and spacious suites, while giving you a direct gateway to its next-door amusement theme park, Imagicaa, for you to unleash all your child-like excitement at.

At a convenient driving distance from Mumbai and Pune, Imagicaa is a multi-themed, all-season amusement venue, comprising a theme park, a water park and a snow world with a fun variety of rides and attractions to indulge in.

Where: Sangdewadi, Khopoli-Pali Road, Near Lonavala, Khalapur, Maharashtra-410203

Della Resort, Lonavala

Outdoor activities at Della Resorts, Lonavala; Photograph courtesy Della Resorts

Touted as one of the leading experiential luxury resorts in the country, Della Resorts in Lonavala, Maharashtra, is a venue for all age groups who like to feed their inner child with a lasting taste of adventure coupled with a decadent weekend retreat. Fringed with the panoramic hills of Lonavala and its scenic views, Della lets you trail its expansive premises, lined up with the finest suites and rooms, villas with private outdoor jacuzzi and glamping camp setups. Taking it a notch up is its very own Extreme Adventure Park with over fifty varieties of rides and activities such as swoop swing, flying fox, aqua zorbing, motocross dirt bike, sky cycling and more.

Where: Della Enclave Rd, Kune Village, Lonavla, Maharashtra-410401

Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore

Luxury camping at Aman-I-Khas: Photograph courtesy Aman-i-Khas

Enveloped in the cool shadows of tall trees and brushwood forest and perched on the threshold of the Ranthambore National Park, Aman-i-Khas is a dreamland for those who find true delight in living amidst the bounties of nature. Sprawling ten acres, the property is home to ten intimate tented suites with lavish, furnished interiors offering a superlative experience of living fine with unforgettable taste of wilderness. On the itinerary of Aman-i-Khas are activities such as excursion to Chambal riverside, exploring Khandar Fort, jeep safaris, camel rides, tiger spotting at Ranthambore and bird-watching.

Where: Village- Sherpur Khiljipur, near Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan-322001

Aman-i-Khas enjoys the bounties of nature: Photograph courtesy Aman-i-Khas

Aman-i-Khas hosts camel safaris: Photograph courtesy Aman-i-Khas

Mihirgarh, House of Rohet, Jodhpur

Mihirgarh Jodhpur; Photograph courtesy House of Rohet

A member property of Relais & Chateaux and one of the boutique hotels from the collection of House of Rohet, Mihirgarh in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, lets the kids aspire for adventures and activities beyond video games and screens. Seeped in the idea of soaking in the outdoors to its fullest, the luxury property that embraces details of Rajasthani heritage and elements of modern opulence, also doubles up as a premier, jubilant playground for kids as well as adults to experience beginner and intermediate horseback riding sessions, bird watching and bonfire Shikar dinners. The staff also hosts alfresco royal picnics and enriching treks, safaris and tours of the Bishnoi Village, giving a peek into the culture and lifestyle of the Bishnoi community.

Where: C/O Rohet House, P.W.D. Road, PWD Colony, Jodhpur, Rajasthan-324001

The Treehouse Hideaway, Bandhavgarh, MP

The Treehouse Hideaway, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve; Photograph courtesy Pugdundee Safaris

If the thought of unobstructed scenes of dense forest trees, frequent sightings of various species of animals, birds and reptiles, frame-worthy views of sunrises and sunsets tingles your soul, then The Treehouse Hideaway by Pugdundee Safaris located on the outskirts of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh will quench your thirst for outdoorsy adventures. The property hosts comfortable but rousing stays at its five tree houses nestled on the trail of lush jungle. The hideaways are each named Mahua, Tendu, Peepal, Banyan and Palash, with the rooms portraying a soothing blend of contemporary and jungle-themed interiors with amenities aplenty.

Skirted by the mighty Vindhya Hills in Umaria district, The Treehouse Hideaway arranges daily jungle safaris, cycling trails. picnics in the park periphery, visit to Ban Sagar Dam, village visits, craft workshops with local artisans and bamboo weavers. On prior request, the staff also arranges for interaction with the local Baiga community who welcome guests wholeheartedly and share their culture, dance performances and culinary expertise for an experience that the inner child in you will want to come back to time and again!

Where: Umaria district-Badhavgarh Rd, Vijarhia, Madhya Pradesh-484661

If a peek into these luxury resorts in India inspired you to pack your bags and head for adventure, make sure to check out India’s first Raffles hotel in Udaipur that may prove irresistible

Paying ode to the slow life, The First House Goa by The Busride Lab is a testament to the other side of Goa that is a stark contrast to its beaches and parties

We all enter Goa holding a million ideas. The heady mix of excitement and anticipation slowly mingles with a dropping of inhibitions. We then begin letting loose and end up having a hazy memory of the entire trip.

The entire experience is not unlike attending a Masquerade Ball, (strangely mirrored in Goa’s carnival, that traces its roots back to the introduction of Roman Catholicism, occurring before the abstinence of Lent). The carnival is presided over by King Momo, who on the opening day orders his subjects to party.

The Masquerade plays out everyday at the beaches, the high-energy bars and clubs, the glitzy casinos and the streets of otherwise quiet village by-lanes. The Masquerade mask introduces us to our own split personality, offering us a vacation from ourselves.

Every nook and corner of this dining area is distinct and chic; Photographs by Fabien Charau

The idea of Goa itself offers this mask and costume. You “let your hair down” behind an oversized straw hat and a thin block-printed muslin shirt. It is impossible to deny that this side of Goa exists. Design briefs that cater to these expectations proliferate the beach belt and the hotel strips, the quest for the ultimate selfie drives major design decisions and project budgets.

To complement the checkered flooring, wooden table and chairs are perched on them with grace; Photographs by Fabien Charau

There is a side of Goa that makes a big impression, and yet another that reveals itself to you slowly. There are places to speed up, where a week feels like a blur. And then there are places to slow down, where a weekend feels like a month.

The First House responds to the second.

Enhancing the beauty of the porch, are these chairs and table that are placed in such a poised manner; Photographs by Fabien Charau

My first impulse walking into the First House was this deep urge to do as little as possible. It was already a stunning property, and almost perfectly situated with this incredible play of nature all around.

On a bright and sunny day, this swimming pool area seems to be the perfect space to relax and unwind; Photographs by Fabien Charau

It was cutaway, yet central, packed into a lovely human-scaled Goan house that already had decades of incredible memories from it’s previous owners layered in. We’ve worked with mirrors to open up vistas, plaster rhythms to unify disparate elements, and tried to be as sedate as possible. We used the lightest possible touch to ease in new objects and navigation, and simple plaster panels and elevational rhythms to just underline alignments with old parts of the bungalow.

Stay in close contact with the nature while you enjoy every moment at The First House villa; Photographs by Fabien Charau

There’s a part of Goa that is experienced when everything else calms down. The First house is designed to be a quiet backdrop, to not impinge on the consciousness of the guest, to conceal functionality rather than display cool stuff.

Hues like white and brown revel with equal fluency in this bedroom; Photographs by Fabien Charau

The property itself (we hope) encourages you to stay longer, to engage with the seasons, to watch the passage of time.

The most challenging part of the project was to keep the freakishness out of the property; Photographs by Fabien Charau

We had some fun with the art program though, and we are curating an ongoing irreverent look at the History of Art, by subtly messing with the artworks of past masters from some of the most amazing museum collections sourced from the commons. It’s a program called “F*ck Art, Lets Dance”, and is an art and music pairing that makes looking at art more bearable.

Probably the most challenging part of the project was to keep our freakishness out of the property and act our age.

No local Craft was harmed in the making of the property.

Read more about this villa in our October-Novermber 2021 issue…

#NowPalette Crocus Culture: shades of saffron that will reign supreme this festive season

Honour the mood and don your spaces in the vivid shades of the festivities… Trend and Style Direction by Sonia Dutt, Styled by Mansi Bhatia.

The Inspiration

The warmth of the carmine tint is omnipresent—skies, flowers, fire—the list is endless. With celebration knocking at our doors, there couldn’t be a better time to foster this claret cuddle derived from the crocus sativus, commonly known as saffron.

1. Background from Shutterstock 2. “CLOUDY COPPER” from Orientbell Tiles, ₹ 43 per sq ft 3. “SLATE” TERRACOTTA TILE from Somany Tiles, ₹ 43.47 per sq ft 4. “TERRA CREAM” IN HONED FINISH from Classic Marble Company, price on request 5. “CS 59” from Ratnagiri tiles, ₹ 424 per sq ft 6. “K-23472IN – 4ND-AF” SINGLE CONTROL LAV FAUCET WITHOUT DRAIN from Kohler India, ₹ 16,950 7. “IRIS NEGRO SUBWAY” from FCML, ₹ 220 per sq ft 8. “CLIFF MAPLE” 358 mm x 179mm from Graffiti India, ₹ 180 per sq ft 9. WOODEN CARVED PIECE, locally sourced, ₹ 100 10. “AGNIMITRA 03” from Ratnagiri Tiles, ₹ 605 per sq ft 11. PLATE, stylist’s own 12. “GOLD PUMPKIN” from Moonriver, ₹ 3500 13. “BELFAST HEX NEGRO MT” 150mm x 170mm from FCML ₹ 950 per sq ft 14. “CARPET POM” from Jaipur Rugs 15. PRE CARVED NATURAL STONE AND HAND BEATEN METAL WITH PATINA EFFECT TILE PART OF THE SUPERNOVA COLLECTION from Orvi Surfaces, price on request 16. RED TRAVERTINE MARBLE from A class marble, price on request

The Features:

Big on details, Mughal architecture transpires as the inspiration for Vintage Vibes, a restaurant in Ahmedabad. A skylight renders the space surreal as accents of Corten steel, brass, concrete and crystals intermingle with natural Indian stones like marble, slate, limestone and kota

Instagram: @ps.associates

Background from Shutterstock, GEOMETRIC PASTA BOWL from Moonriver, ₹ 6, 987 PLATES AND SPOON are stylist’s own

Do not desert that dessert… My sweet ravioli is a subtle spin on the savoury with pasta that revamps the Italian with a hint of Indian. The Italian born pasta finds place amidst hues and flavours of saffron in this Indian melange of flavours and textures.

Recipe below by chef Megha Jhunjhunwalla, Hearth & I @hearth_&_I

A: Beetroot & Carrot Pasta Dough

Ingredients ‘A’ 100g blanched beetroot or Carrot 1 large free-range eggs 200g ‘00’ flour or regular All purpose flour Extra flour and fine polenta, for dusting

Method Blend ‘A’ in a food processor until you have a paste. Mix the egg into the puree and continue to blend until you have a smooth puree. Put flour on a dry surface and create a well in the middle. Pour the puree of ‘A’ into the middle of the well and slowly mix in the flour to start creating a dough. (you can also mix the flour and puree in a food processor). Knead the pasta mixture well until a silky smooth elastic dough is formed, which is similar to the consistency of play dough. This dough is often sticky due to the moisture of the vegetable purée, so add extra flour if necessary until the dough stops sticking to your hands.

Cover with cling film and leave to refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Filling recipe for Beetroot ravioli

Ingredients 150 gms cream cheese 50 gms blanched Beetroot (blended puree) 1 tablespoon jaggery powder

Method Put all the above in a food processor till they come together and refrigerate till ready to use.

Filling recipe for carrot ravioli

Ingredients 50 gms ricotta 50 gms blanched carrot (blended puree) 50 gms melted white chocolate 2 tablespoon cooking cream 2 teaspoons pistachio bits

Method Heat cream and add the white chocolate into the pan, mix together till they come together. Let it cool. Whisk in the carrot puree, pistachio bits & ricotta with the chocolate mix.

Refrigerate till ready to use.

Ravioli assembly

Method Take a small piece of the dough and either run it through a pasta machine a few times OR use a rolling pin, some flour and a considerable amount of muscle to create a thin sheet.

To assemble the ravioli, brush the egg wash over a sheet of pasta. Drop the filling mixture on the dough by teaspoonfuls about one inch apart. Cover the filling with the top sheet of pasta, pressing out the air from around each portion of filling. Press firmly around the filling to seal. Cut into individual ravioli with a knife or pizza cutter. Seal the edges. Set aside on a well floured surface so they don’t stick.

In the meantime, boil. Use a big pot with salt and boil. Add the ravioli once the water boils and do not overcrowd the ravioli. They will take about 2 minutes less to cook.

Strain and set aside with some oil over them so they don’t stick.

Saffron milk sauce

Ingredients 1 litre full fat milk 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon saffron Bits of pistachio for garnish

Method Heat the milk in a heavy pot with sugar added. Boil the milk till it’s reduced to 1/4th. Add the saffron and further reduce it till you are left with a thick, Rabri like consistency.

Plating

Place the drained pasta in the bowl, pour the hot saffron milk over it and serve.

Click here to read more from the October-November issue of ELLE DECOR India…

#ED curates Horror Fiesta Binge List—22 recommendations to watch this Halloween weekend and honour the spooky season

Don’t forget popcorn this Halloween weekend as you celebrate the spooky season with ED’s curated Horror Fiesta Binge List in order of their IMDB rating—

The Haunting of Hill House, 2018

The Haunting of Hill House by Mike Flanagan officially streams on Netflix; Photograph courtesy IMDb

One mini-series season, ten episodes of this seat-gripper directed by Mike Flanagan will spook you right into the Halloween weekend. Swiftly balancing two timelines, the plot revolves around five siblings whose paranormal experiences in their childhood at Hill House continue to haunt them in adulthood.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this series on www.netflix.com

Psycho, 1960

The 1960 still manages to run chill down spines, and it’s no surprise given Hitchcock’s brilliance; Photograph courtesy Wikipedia

Classic alert! Directed by celebrated British director Alfred Hitchcock, the feature film follows the account of Bates Motel, Norman Bates and a woman on the run.

Watch the trailer here.

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, 1920

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari might be the first horror film, but it has aged like fine wine; Photograph courtesy Wikipedia

Said to be the first horror movie ever, the film manages to spook even a century after it was first premiered. Dark, twisted and based on hypnosis, it certainly is a must-watch for horror aficionados.

Watch the trailer here.

Rosemary’s Baby, 1968

Experience bone-deep chills with Rosemary’s baby, a classic horror film that does not employ jump scares to spread terror; Photograph courtesy IMDb

This age-old movie works as a slow burn and will keep you glued to your screens. Rosemary and Guy—a young couple trying for a baby move into a swanky building on Central Park West, but find themselves surrounded by peculiar and concerning neighbours.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.play.google.com/store/movies

Let the Right One In, 2008

Witness a saccharine childhood romance turn into a macabre, unimaginable story in the Swedish movie, Let The Right One In; Photograph courtesy IMDb

A childhood romance gone wrong, a Swedish movie adapted from the book by John Ajvide Lindqvist, portrays a sensitive, troubled 12-year-old boy and a young, mysterious and troublesome girl. It seems just a little quirky until someone reveals a secret…

Watch the trailer here.

Get Out, 2017

Jordan Peele’s directorial and storytelling magic effortlessly shines through in this horror-mystery; Photograph courtesy IMDb

A melange of genres, the film directed by Jordan Peele, is based on the surprises (not pleasant ones) waiting to unfold when a man in love visits his seemingly ‘normal’ girlfriend’s parents…

Watch the trailer here.

The Birds, 1963

Leave it to Hitchcock, to turn harmless creatures like birds into things of nightmares; Photograph courtesy Wikipedia

Yet another Alfred Hitchcock film, this one revolves around a pompous socialite who follows a lawyer to his home with the intent of playing a practical joke on him. Things take a screeching turn when the birds in the area begin to attack the people there.

Watch the trailer here.

A Quiet Place, 2018

Versatile actors John Krasinki and Emily Blunt put on one of their best performances. The film has received awards for its sound effects; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Directed by the multi-talented John Krasinki, and starring himself and his wife, Emily Blunt—the movie follows a family trying to survive in a world where all humans are killed by blind but sound-sensitive creatures. They must maintain silence to survive….

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.play.google.com/store/movies

The Lighthouse, 2019

Get used to sitting at the edge of your seat for the entire duration of The Lighthouse starring Willem Dafoe; Photograph courtesy IMDb

The Robert Pattinson starrer is a definite seat-jerker and takes you through the account of a young lighthouse keeper assisting his elderly supervisor. The plot turns when the youngster is plagued by vivid ‘hallucinations’.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.netflix.com

The Haunting of Bly manor, 2020

Yet another daunting series from Mike Flanagan streaming on Netflix, a second installment to The Haunting anthology; Photograph courtesy IMDb

The second entry of The Haunting anthology series can be watched as a standalone from its first instalment. The storyline, based on the 1898 novella The Turn of the Screw by Henry James, follows a young governess at Bly Manor who witnesses apparitions haunting the estate. This one is highly recommended for goth fans!

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this series on www.netflix.com

Hereditary, 2018

The Hereditary probes at the scariest aspect of paranormal activities, it’s never monsters or ghosts, it’s always our nearest ones; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Familial secrets take a dramatic turn with the passing away of the matriarch of the Graham family, leading to her daughter and grandchildren unravelling cryptic and scaring secrets about their ancestry, alongside trying to escape the demonic fate they have been passed on.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.primevideo.com

The Invisible Man, 2020

Unearth unbelievable mysteries and relive H.G, Wells’ Invisible Man through a contemporary lens; Photograph courtesy Scotland’s Theme Park

After watching this movie, there’s a possibility you might not throw around the word ‘stalker’ just as carelessly. Inspired by H.G. Wells’ classic book, the movie follows Cecilia, a woman whose frantic ex-boyfriend fakes his death to torment her, on the path to unravel the truth, she discovers something ground-breaking.

Watch the trailer here.

The Witch, 2015

Delve into 17th century horrors, sponsored by good acting and even better cinematography with The Witch; Photograph courtesy New DVD Releases Dates

Directed by Robert Eggers and starring Anya Taylor-Joy, and set in the New England of the 17th century, the plot follows a banished Puritan family and their farm by the edge of a remote forest.

Watch the trailer here.

Ready or not, 2019

Follow a bride into every bride’s nightmare, giggle and groan with this entertaining feature film; Photograph courtesy IMDb

A cross between comedy and horror genre, this 90-minute is sure to take you through varied emotions and glue you to your screens. The plot involves a newlywed bride, Grace who as her first step into married life must hide from midnight until dawn while her new in-laws hunt her down with guns, crossbows and other weapons. Wondering why?

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.play.google.com/store/movies

The Babadook, 2014

The Babadook brings forth the horrifying realisation that perhaps demons are not just talk of the folklore; Photograph courtesy IMDb

The directorial debut of Jennifer Kent, this horror film is based on her short film titled Monster and is a must-watch for psychology enthusiasts. The plot sees a single mother helping her son battle his fear of a monster lurking in the house, while being distressed by the terrorising death of her husband, but soon discovers there’s something deeper….

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.primevideo.com

Us, 2019

Us brings us to realise our biggest fears do not lie outside, but inside us; Photograph courtesy Collide

Us, directed by Jordan Peele, is quite literally the horror adaptation of the notion that we are our own biggest competitors. The film follows Adelaide Wilson and her kin, who are attacked by a mysterious group adorning red garments, only to realise the attackers are their doppelgangers.

Watch the trailer here.

Sinister, 2012

Directed and co-written by Scott Derrickson, Sinister explores the mythos of demonic and general supernatural activity; Photograph courtesy IMDb

The Ethan Hawke-starrer narrates a story of a true-crime writer, who out of desperation to move out of his slump shifts to a house where a family has been murdered. It is only on stumbling upon some concrete evidence, does he realise the home is inhabited by supernatural forces.

Watch the trailer here.

Drag me to hell, 2009

Drag Me to Hell has quite a lot under-surface humour and scares delivered via grotesque imagery and jump-scares; Photograph courtesy New Day Movie Reviews

Written and directed by the writer of the Spider-Man trilogy, Drag Me to Hell is a supernatural horror film that revolves around a loan officer, cursed by an elderly woman to be banished to hell upon rejecting to extend the latter’s mortgage plea.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.primevideo.com

Malignant, 2021

The latest movie on the list, Malignant must be a sure-shot list to your watch-list; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Malignant is a supernatural horror film based on an original story by James Wan, Ingrid Bisu, and Akela Cooper. The plotline narrates the tale of a woman, Madison, who begins to have vivid visions of people being murdered, and eventually realises the incidents are taking place in real-time. The film captures her tryst of trying to save the victims, who are strangers to her.

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.play.google.com/store/movies

Lights out, 2016

Lights Out doesn’t let you settle in, and jumps right into terror; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Yet another nail-biting, horror-thriller from James Wan, Lights Out unwraps the story of Rebecca, a woman who is forced to face her fears, when her little brother experiences the same terror with regards to a frightening entity, Sophie who bears a mysterious attachment to her mother. All this only gets scarier, because anomalies take place only when…it’s lights out!

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.play.google.com/store/movies

Ouija: Origin of Evil, 2016

Directed by Stiles White, the film is the prequel to 2014 film Ouija; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Written and directed by horror movie maven, Mike Flanagan, Ouija is an ideal film for those fascinated by the notorious spirit-calling game. A widow and her two daughters, decidedly call upon spirits to assist them to move on to the next phase of their lifecycle. It’s all fun and games until one guest decides to stay….

Watch the trailer here.

Mama, 2013

A horror movie with a touch of sentiment is the perfect way to define Mama; Photograph courtesy IMDb

Based on the Argentine short film Mama, the movie follows the story of two young girls who are followed by an evil presence post the death of their parents. Nothing will ward the presence off, not even changing houses…

Watch the trailer here.

Watch this movie on www.netflix.com

Restaurants got flavour—7 places to visit that guarantee both food and ambience for the soul

What connoisseurs look forward to from a restaurant experience boils down to good food with great ambience, and attractive interiors. The foundation of a restaurant’s design is built on its concept—from the colour scheme to furniture choices, its aesthetics drive the restaurant’s footfall. Another modern-day necessity stems from the obsession of the millennials with Instagram-worthy decor. Fret not, #EDPicks 7 restaurants that not only promise great food, but also document worthy escapades—

Anglo Indian Cafe by Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group, designed by interior designer Amneet Mirpuri

Anglo Indian Cafe by Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group; Photographs by Saachi Jhaveri Shah

Located in the heart of one of the most beautiful areas of Lonavala/Khandala, Anglo Indian Cafe is just 45 minutes away from the start of the Mumbai—Pune Expressway at Panvel.

Project partners Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group designed this cafe with the aim to provide a culinary experience, extending flair for food and vibrant ambiance. Accessible world-class food is also one of them. As you walk through the gates, you’re welcomed into a whimsical bistro with a European feel and the hills as your backdrop.

Interior designer Amneet Mirpuri designed this space, keeping in mind ‘a timeless effect’. The most prominent decor are the large white colonial pillars, the rustic blue Mediterranean-inspired floor tiles overlooking a lush green mountain. “Creating small nooks and corners has been the highlight of the space,” expressed Mirpuri.

From a day at breakfast, basking in the sun and the breeze from the hills, to an evening enjoying a candlelit dinner with your loved ones, the space is catered for any type of occasion, celebratory or intimate. “Our aesthetic interiors complement the wholesome cuisines we serve at the cafe. So come, join us for some “feel-good vibes” while you indulge in our authentic and delicious preparations by the hills,” cheered Mirpuri.

Gourmet To Go by co-founders Priyal Shah and Raj Shah, at Mumbai, Maharashtra

Gourmet To Go; Photograph courtesy Gourmet To Go

Driven by the desire to bring fresh, indulgent and gourmet food offerings to Mumbai’s Peddar Road, co-founders Priyal Shah and Raj Shah bring you Gourmet To Go. This new space, located at the iconic New Kampala Service Station (BPCL Petrol Pump), doubles as a convenience store and take-away cafe. From daily essentials and nutritious snacks to gourmet picks and to-go cooked meals, this pure vegetarian store offers it all. Patrons can also pick up freshly-brewed coffee and other beverages, healthy and indulgent desserts, apart from grocery staples like grains, handpicked homegrown products and plenty more.

To bring forward the brand’s core philosophy – that of delivering fresh, healthy, gourmet food, Shah designed the store with black-and-white tiles and smooth wooden shelves, interspersed with pops of yellow. “We built Gourmet To Go with one simple thought – to sell only those products that we ourselves would consume. Besides, there weren’t enough eateries in the neighbourhood that offered healthy yet indulgent meals.,” highlighted Shah.

On the cafe menu, you will find all-day breakfast bowls, Indian bowls, Asian bowls and a fresh selection of appetizers, freshly-brewed coffee & other beverages, and desserts. The good news: they cater to everyone from vegetarians and vegans to gluten-intolerant, lactose-intolerant, and consumers preferring Jain food preparations. “Owing to our location, our store is the perfect fit for working professionals, morning joggers or those looking for a quick snack while their vehicles fuel up,” insisted Shah.

Klap by Amit Aurora, Partner GroupDCA and designers Shivani and Sandeep, at Khan Market, New Delhi

Klap by Amit Aurora, Partner GroupDCA; Photographs by Niveditaa Gupta

Staying true to the nostalgia Khan Market evokes, the 3,600 sq ft Klap is adorned in maximalist design with modern interiors to adapt to the changing demands of today’s consumers. Being an intimate space, the restaurant is an amalgamation of two different worlds—a cosy meeting point serving up bespoke drinks and quick Asian bites, and a little corporate escapism. A fantastic venue for those in need of a spot of brunch, dinner or even just casual drinks, the different range of seating techniques complement the various user demands.

Lighting is skilfully integrated, providing ambient illumination and design interest, while creating an atmosphere of relaxation. Layered with the natural afternoon light, it creates an uplifting and energising effect.

Custom terrazzo floors add a splash of colours, serving as inspiration for the entire décor of the restaurant. It brings in playfulness as the beautiful colour palette is reflected in the mirrors carefully placed on the ceiling, creating a vintage romance. Additionally, mirrors are aesthetically placed to complement the slender profile of the restaurant and add up to a mosaic effect, creating an illusory depth of space.

Ladurée by CK Israni Group and interior designer Chandni Nath Israni, at Khan Market, New Delhi

Brought to India in collaboration with the CK Israni Group, world -famous French luxury confectionary brand Ladurée is located at Khan Market, New Delhi. A beautiful classic interior is crafted with a refined style of Maison Ladurée. The ground floor is dedicated for all French patisserie, macarons, other delicacies and a luxurious dine-in setup for a great Ladurée experience.

The menu of the Salon includes the classic desserts from Maison Ladurée, comprising famous 13 great flavours of their classic macarons besides candies, teas and other sweet spreads.

All the traditional sweets & desserts available to try at the Salon can also be ordered as take aways or to order for festive seasons, weddings or private functions.

Seeds Of Life by interior designer Sumessh Menon, at Bandra & Juhu, Mumbai

Bringing the much-needed green supply to our everyday diet, Seeds of Life has launched its second outlet in Juhu with beautiful aesthetics and cozy ambiance making it the perfect place for a refreshing and nutritious meal. This newly launched ‘Green Cafe’ embarks on a new beginning with comforting interiors designed by Sumessh Menon -one of the ace hospitality interior designers.

The concept of conscious food has encouraged the creation of a delicious new menu serving wholesome goodness with exciting recipes like Sweet Potato and Mint soup, with Hawaiian Pesto Salad and Mezze Platter, to the tastiest smoothie bowls like the Ocean Bowl along with classic sandwiches and burgers that are abundant with all the vegan and gluten-free ingredients; providing healthy food at a great price.

Keeping minimalism and freshness in mind, Sumessh has surrounded the cafe with green accents and natural sunlight, bringing a refreshing dining experience.

Café Panama by founder and principal designer Salonee Kothari of Studio SKO, at Mumbai

Café Panama by Salonee Kothari of Studio SKO; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal

Spread across 3500 square foot, Café Panama is an all day café and bar situated in the heart of the city, Todi Mills – Lower Parel. Staying true to its name, the design aesthetic is a blended mix of tropical, bright and breezy with art deco lamps, velvet fabrics, terrazzo table tops, cane furniture and tall plants. Using two different forms of flooring (B&W tiles and wooden slats), the focal point of the restaurant is the bar – cladded in super glazed bottle green ceramic tiles with brass detailing, and a cluster of hanging cane lights with creepers sitting above.

The 30 feet tall, glass ceiling open to the Bombay skyline, pours in natural light all day thus brightening up the space. The brainchild of Sohel Lalwani and Shaam Gidwani, this restaurant serves up a mix of European and Latin American flavours along with some special additions such as breakfast food, pastas, flat breads and more can be found on the menu too.

The existing big red brick wall has been retained to exude an old mill charm. Certainly, this restaurant’s vibe is vibrant, warm and easy going.

The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company, at Nariman Point, Mumbai

The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company; Photographs courtesy The Sassy Spoon

Carrying forward the bling signage from its Powai outpost, the stunning ‘Kiss My Sass’ board is the first to greet you upon entering this resto-bar and would be definitely your first spot to click a picture. The Sassy Spoon, located at Nariman Point, Mumbai, is all set to welcome diners with a new and vibrant look. This look has been created by founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company, Rachel Goenka and is observed as the flagship outpost being an award-winning resto-bar.

Goenka’s revamp manifests memories . As the new decor illustrates a journey, which has been traversed over the past eight years. “Our flagship outpost at Nariman Point is all sassed up with its vibrant new interiors and exciting new menu. We want our guests to have something new to look forward to and to enjoy a delightful experience when they visit The Sassy Spoon,” adds Goenka.

The vast array of new dishes includes flatbreads like Mexican flatbread, Three Cheese flatbread and Crispy Chicken Flatbread. You can pair your drinks with assortment of small plates like Mushroom olive pate on cheese burst brioche with truffle oil, Whole wheat tortilla with hummus, falafel and tzatziki, Sweet and spicy Caribbean jerk style pork tart with melted camembert, and Soft shell saffron tacos with braised tenderloin, mushrooms and sour cream. Some exquisite additions to their mains include Vegetable ramen in an aromatic coconut broth with kaffir lime, exotic vegetables and togarashi, Grilled cottage cheese steak with paprika corn cream and herb rice, Teriyaki tofu with shiitake mushrooms and more!

All millennials rise! We’ve found the best new restaurants for you

With summer holidays approaching, it’s time to start discovering and testing your palate. We rounded up a list of cool new restaurants for you to try!

ShangHigh
Massive Restaurant’s latest offering to the Asian dining scene is this 1930s themed supper club. Aptly named after the city, ShangHigh’s high-energy, performance-dining gives diners a taste of original Chinese restaurants. With traditional interiors and an extensive cuisine that includes Honey pepper lamb rack, Whole lobster in smoke chilli and ginger soy sauce, Crab clay pot and more, this new eatery is on our list of must-try restaurants this weekend!
Where: Kamala Mills, Mumbai

1522 Bar and Kitchen
Bengaluru’s favourite outpost has found a second home, right here in Mumbai! Designed by Sumessh Menon, this new outpost boasts muted green tones, floral motifs, vibrant and earthy details all blended with a design concept inspired by English pubs. The carefully curated all-day menu includes lip-smacking Modern Indian, Tandoori, Continental and Chinese dishes. Spend your weekend feeling the wind on your face as you devour the city’s best food, drinks and company!
Where: Andheri, Mumbai

Mount Road Social
The Social brand has added its newest outpost and this time in a killer beach town! Palm trees, sea breeze and a chill scene, Chennai has it all. Say hello to Mount Road Social, Impresario Handmade Restaurants newest addition to the Social Chain. Known for its epic parties, quirky decor and mouth-watering menu, this new eatery is not just a place, it’s a vibe. Plan your weekend at this cool new outpost and don’t forget to hashtag—#ItsSOCIALda!
Where: Express Avenue Mall, Chennai

Copitas
Four Seasons Hotel, Bengaluru at Embassy ONE has unveiled a gem with Copitas—a high energy Destination Bar located on level 21. With a chic atmosphere and stylish interiors, this bar is designed by LW Design and offers exotic cocktails, magnetic conversation and a well-curated food menu. At Copitas one can enjoy an artisanal craft cocktail clasped in an impeccably manicured hand, while looking out at the sparkling Bengaluru skyline.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, Bengaluru

Daler
Helmed by Design Ethics Architecture Studio, Daler is a mix of glamour and sophistication. Spread across 2100 sq ft, the restaurant’s design is inspired by North India. With nostalgic elements, fierce colours and a material palette that included greys and golds, Daler captures the true essence of India. Zoned in three levels, each floor is meticulously customised as per the use.
Where: Rajouri Garden, New Delhi

Kake Di Hatti
Originally based in Chandni Chowk, Kake Di Hatti has now found a home in Ahmedabad! Serving authentic Punjabi cuisine with a variety of over 40 naans, this restaurant also features elegant interiors done up by Amogh Designs. Elegant arches teleport you to old Chandni Chowk and the vintage wooden frames add to the old world charm. Taste the best of Punjab at Kake Di Hatti!
Where: Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Vice: Global Tapas Bar
Designed by Ashish Kambli, Vice is a pearlescent outpost, replete with brutal interiors. Crafted using a thousand mother of pearl pieces inlaid in the panelling and design, this eatery/pub has an 85 ft long island bar, plenty of seating area and lustrous interiors. Vice is a treat for sore eyes! Spend the weekend exploring the brutalist theme fused with quirky artwork, while enjoying a refreshing drink and some delectable bites!
Where: Juhu, Mumbai

#Binge with us! We curated a list of must-visit restaurants for you

Struggling to make plans this weekend? Can’t pick between menus? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of all the newest places to be seen this weekend onwards…The Sassy Spoon After the success of its Nariman Point outlet, this trendy resto-bar is spreading sass around in the locale of Powai. Designed by Minnie Bhatt, this space features vibrant artwork, casual seating and verandah style tables. A key design element of this outlet is the muted flooring that perfectly offsets the floral art and upholstery. The bar area houses a life size Volkswagen campervan and a bottle display with a chevron pattern with wood and stone. Known for its decadent desserts and gluten-free delicacies, The Sassy Spoon is definitely on our binge list!The Terrace Located in Andheri, The Terrace designed by Saniya Kantawala is the new ‘Photo worthy’ restaurant for millenials. The fascination with posting the ‘where’ and ‘when’ defines the design concept of this venue. With indoor and outdoor seating, the space is bathed in millennial pink with a combination of brass, eclectic seating, dramatic jewel-shaped lighting and other elements that attract today’s youth. The bar features a glass facade, with plants on one side and a neon light with the words, ‘Here comes the sun’. The key highlight of The Terrace is its quirky pop-up art and, of course, a terrace garden. The Tanjore Tiffin RoomHere to give you #nostalgia about all your recess memories, The Tanjore Tiffin Room is a melange of throwbacks. With home cooked food and grandma’s secret recipes in mind, Kishore DF brings the best of Tamilian cuisine to this outlet in Bandra. Versatile seating, quirky mood lighting, antique furniture and pastel shades tie the space together poetically. The design highlight is its terracotta washed staircase with aalas scooped out of the walls with diyas to illuminate the space. With an earthy palette and seasoned textures, we also see murals, intricate artwork and accessories that exude bright hues. Real, homely and Tamil fare is what this place is all about.Episode OneStudio Eight Twentythree reimagined gymkhanas while crafting Powai’s Episode One. Rajasthani marble, solid teak wood and bundles of natural greens render the space with the idea of ‘what yesterday would feel like today’, seamlessly blending Victorian and art deco references with new world aesthetics. The outlet is divided into a ballroom for mingling, a taproom where brews, spirits and cocktails flow endlessly, chambers for the dining area and finally, the veranda which exudes a warm vibe. The massive charcoal tinted ceiling features walls covered in a fabric that’s further rendered into numerous layered elements by artist Sajid Wajid Shaikh. With a rustic aura and bespoke lighting, Episode one serves as the perfect spot to unwind.Mohan MahalIf you’re looking for a blend of dining, grandeur and romance, we have just the right place for you. Nestled in the Pink City, Mohan Mahal at the Jaipur, JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the perfect setting for a romantic evening with its soft flickering candlelight and opulent interiors. Indulge yourself with piquant and tantalising flavours of Rajasthani and Awadhi cuisines at Mohan Mahal. Inspired by the Sheesh Mahal at Amber Fort, the eatery is replete with candles and mirror decor that lends a scintillating atmosphere of refined elegance. We suggest you give your getaway an upgrade by dining at this regal restaurant.The Orient For this Kolkata based restaurant, the multidisciplinary architectural studio Salient incorporates ancient Japanese techniques like ‘Feng Shui’ and ‘Taoism’ to reflect Asian nuances. Each door frame sings a lore of Feng Shui, while the layout is scattered with metal jaalis in traditional patterns that form a private booth for intimate gatherings. Diffused light adds to the mystical atmosphere, while handmade products, grey shades inspired by zen and red tints from chi play a game of light and shadows. Satisfy your sushi and ramen cravings by dining at The Orient.Powai Social Keeping in line with its #Social trend, this chain has recently opened in Powai. Epitomising the work life balance, Powai Social encourages you to let loose. The mood juxtaposes urban and natural elements, staying true to Social’s ‘minimum intervention, maximum upcycling’ design approach. Crafted by Shabnam Gupta of The Orange Lane, the outpost features earthy hues of red paired with concrete that emerges out of the ground and morphs into in-situ seating—a special design element dedicated to the history of Mumbai. The rustic tones are accentuated by hand painted murals made using non-toxic paint. This is the ideal place to get some downtime.

Beyond Designs Home & BistroDelhi’s design district is now home to a concept destination. Luxury furniture and lifestyle brand Beyond Design launches this shopping–meets-dining stop. Cofounder Neha Gupta designed this space as an artsy haven with grand chandeliers, marble topped tables, chic cane chairs and classic floral upholstery on the sofas. The French styled bistro features antique accessories and a warm aura with a curation of delicious dishes. Impeccable serve ware and cutlery, stylish presentation, amazing service and soothing music—this one proves that fine dining has been elevated to fine art status.

Austin Proper Hotel and Residences artfully places itself at the cultural crossroads of Downtown Texas’ skyline

Rising above the coast of the city it’s named after, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences is all set to open its doors this winter in Texas. Crafted by interior designer Kelly Wearstler, its 244 rooms and suites, 99 branded residences and luxury amenities—all blend lifestyle and well being with aesthetic interiors. The property also offers creative offices, bespoke design and a peek into the local culture.

Unfurling over three years, Wearstler’s creative vision for the site features an individualistic view blending a tradition of artistry and craftsmanship that defines the city. The influence of the most stately homes in Texas’ capital city animates captivating details from a sculptural staircase installation of 60 patchworked rugs to the lobby’s monolithic wood-and-ceramic grandfather clock. An essence of local art is seen throughout with textural plays on every surface, ranging from the pool deck to antique mirror finishes in the rooms. With the city as its muse, the designer detailed each room for refined living and restful evenings. Deeply influenced by indigenous arts and crafts, every space in the property exudes a cultural essence.

This luxury hotel will host McGuire Moorman Hospitality, the award-winning team behind Austin’s best dining and entertainment spots. The landmark eatery provides its patrons with lip-smacking, Meditteranean inspired cuisine and flavours. Keeping in line with the hotel’s commitment to wellness, this urban getaway accommodates a soothing lounge and spa as well as a spacious fitness centre. An array of high-end facilities encourage the guests to linger on the property or even set up a temporary office with a view of the pool.

Goa gets its butterfly wings with new culinary outpost: Titlie

Nestled in the portkey to paradise–Goa, and set against the picturesque canvas of Orzan beach in Vagator is Titlie, a new tavern that offers the most captivating sunset views. Conceptualised by Tarun Sibal, Bipin Sibal, Karrtik Dhingra and Shyaam Khurrana, this restaurant gives you a fusion of Indian and global experiences.

“Titlie, named after the butterfly, symbolises the sensorial memories of our daily transformative journeys through life. Goa’s multifaceted spirit; the enigmatic expanse of the ocean, inspiring relaxation and romance and above all, the unforgettable sunset views represent so much more than just the sum of all ingredients,” says Tarun. Featuring a contemporary-rustic aesthetic with pastel colours and dashes of green, Shweta Kaushik of SK.ID crafted this tavern taking inspiration from Susegad’s eclectic vibe. With collaborative cuisine as one of their highlights, Titlie is a gastronomic melting pot featuring food curated by Chef Tarun Sibal. You can choose from the diverse spread of Charred Sourdough with orange peel butter, green mascarpone and guava chilli jam, or Porcini French Toast. Pick among the classic Goan dishes with an added twist like Pulled Pork Vindaloo with sauerkraut, Pressed Pork Belly with apple cider; or Seared Goat Meat with a maple whiskey wash.

Quench your thirst with Titlie’s specials, concocted by one of India’s finest mixologists, Yangdup Lama. The bar menu also features the aforementioned in-house tinctures and bitters, a cornucopia of local produce, Goan Feni and Goan Whiskey including the Austin Tower Old Fashioned. The Saligao Straight celebrates Goan mahua, while Cocktail De Ponas serves up tropical vibes. Majorda Mist hints at feistiness and the classic G&T gets a Titlie twist.

EDIDA winner Cristina Celestino, founder of Attico Design, reinvents the historic Caffè Concerto Cucchi in Milan

Imagine a space frequented by the best creative minds of a generation, gathering for a coffee, small bites and decadent pastries. That’s the kind of patronage Caffè Concerto enjoyed. Founded in 1936, the eatery offered drinks, nibbles and sweet treats to the tunes of a Spanish ensemble that played the latest dance music from America. The confectionery—also known as Pasticceria Cucchi after its founders Luigi and Vittorina Cucchi—has been an iconic Milanese landmark for decades. For its new avatar, Italian architect and designer Cristina Celestino reimagined it as an urban oasis replete with eclectic references that draw from the historic café chantant, the delicate artistry of pastry making. The interior features curated pieces, which embrace the traditional setting of the shop, and a fresh look for everything from carpeting to packaging. The Tea Room, which is the heart of the space, houses an impressive palm tree lit by pod like, blown glass lamps. The Oasi silk wallcovering from Misha in the backdrop combines embroidery and metallic surfaces, while the tops of the Canditi tables in the outdoor area are made with precious inlays of multihued marble. Modern interventions, with a touch of surrealism, elevate the classic Milanese allure of the pastry shop.
Website: www.cristinacelestino.com