ELLE Gourmet Exclusive: What’s A 100-Day Pop-Up Bar Doing In Mumbai?

Mumbai has always been a city that thrives on diversity – whether it’s cuisines from around the world or a vibrant culinary culture that constantly reinvents itself. But with so many options at one’s fingertips, choice fatigue is real. The challenge for restaurants and bars isn’t just launching—it’s sustaining and staying relevant. That’s where Eateratti’s pop-up concept comes in. Co-founded by Gaurav Dabrai and Bansri Shah, the food and drink strategy platform has launched One More Round, a 100-day pop-up cocktail bar at PORT Kitchen & Bar, Mahalaxmi.

“For any bar or F&B concept, the first three months are a rollercoaster ride—you’re either the new hotspot or last night’s cold dinner. We wanted to lean into that uncertainty and create something fresh and fun ahead of the peak season madness,” says Dabrai.

A Cocktail Experience In Chapters

Curious to learn more about this collaboration, I found myself at PORT—a cosy, intimate spot that’s been quietly making its mark for nearly a decade in Shakti Mills, right next to Masque. I’m almost embarrassed to admit it was my first time here.

Set within the G5A warehouse, an arts and creative hub, this modern Italian and Mediterranean vegetarian restaurant instantly charmed us with its warm, inviting interiors. My colleague and I were so taken with the space that we couldn’t even decide where to sit. After a few laughs and a little debate, we finally settled into a corner near the bar, perfectly positioned to soak in the atmosphere and watch the action unfold.

The pop-up isn’t just a bar—it’s a curated exploration of cocktails shaped by mood, memory, and seasonal storytelling. The experience is divided into thematic chapters, with a new concept every 30 days. The first chapter dives into South Bombay stereotypes—Marine Drive melancholies, club culture, and urban quirks—expressed through playful, referential drinks.

“We noticed patterns of behaviour and taste across city stereotypes, and being from South Bombay ourselves, it allowed us to make fun of our own,” explains Dabrai. “Full disclosure: one of the cocktails is inspired by an ex!”

Expect cocktails with irreverent names, nostalgic references, and small-batch infusions—all crafted to tell a story with every sip.

The Flavours You’ll Remember

I kicked off the experience with Girl’s Girl—vodka, jalapeño, and passion fruit. Just like the name suggests, it’s the ultimate pick-me-up on a rough day. Umami Verified is a whisky-based concoction with nori and miso—seaweed in liquid form, yet perfectly balanced and approachable. For coffee lovers, Nandan or Nothing, Babe hits the mark. And if you are in the mood for a citrus punch, then the tequila-based Sorted In The Head, ___ In Bed is the ideal pick.

Food That Matches The Fun

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Port Kitchen & Bar (@port_bombay)

Complementing the drinks is PORT Kitchen & Bar’s globally inspired menu. Although every cocktail has recommended dishes paired with it, we chose to mix and match. Highlights included the Jamun Brie Crostino and Mushroom Paté Crostino, but the Grilled Watermelon placed on a bed of cashew cream and soy, and topped with fried shallots and mint, truly stole the show. Among mains, founder and chef Ishan Benegal recommended the crowd-favourite Pumpkin Gnocchi, introduced as a Halloween special and now a permanent hit. The meal ended beautifully with a light, creamy vanilla panna cotta—definitely worth saving room for.

So, What’s Next?

With the first chapter already making waves, Eateratti is set to roll out two more themed menus over the next two months. Fans are eager to see how the next chapters unfold.

Beyond this, the team is experimenting with other pop-ups – think cakes & cocktails, functional mithai for Diwali inspired by dietary preferences, and even a pop-up noodle shop. 

For now, if you’re curious about new-age cocktails with a twist, head to PORT Kitchen & Bar for One More Round. The clock’s ticking; you don’t want to miss it!