This ugly-cute doll is on everyone's mind, and soon it is about to become a part of your dining experience. Whether you love it or hate it, you've definitely heard about it. The Labubu doll is what I'm talking about, and to the dismay of many people I know, yes, I find it adorable. I am aware of the digital footprints I will leave behind with this statement.
The iconic collectable toy figurine is a part of a book series called The Monsters, created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung. It is an elvish creature inspired by Nordic fairy tales, and comes with a sinister grin and big, beady eyes that many people around the world just can't resist.
These toys have gained immense popularity, along with a mix of reactions. Its retailer website, Pop Mart's description says, "despite a mischievous look, LABUBU is kind-hearted and always wants to help, but often accidentally achieves the opposite." We all need some chaotic energy in our lives.
Singer Lisa, who will soon join her girls for a Blackpink World tour, was one of the first celebrities to start this craze. In an Instagram story, the Rockstar singer did an unboxing for her doll and mentioned it in an interview. She was then joined by stars like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Ananya Pandey, who have flaunted their little monster at various sightings. It would be safe to say that much of the craze behind this figurine can now be attributed to that all-too-familiar feeling of FOMO. And it seems like the culinary world has got it too.
Labubu Menus In The City
The craze has now trickled down onto people's plates. London's bakery, Sakura-Do, introduced their multi-flavour Labubu style cakes, ranging from strawberry, matcha, chocolate, oreo, mango or yuzu. Bakeries in India like Whisk Cake Studio and Kookie Cake Crumble have already become popular for their Labubu-inspired cakes in different flavours and aesthetics. If you were wondering how to get your hands on a Labubu doll, then a dinner with your family or friends might just get you one if you're in Mumbai.
All Saints
At All Saints, the restaurant has transformed into a playful space with cheeky Labubu accents hidden in corners, bespoke art installations, and a special giveaway that’s likely to set collectors’ hearts racing. Diners who spend ₹5000 or more walk away with a limited-edition Labubu figurine, a rare chance to snag the cult toy outside of international resellers and comic conventions.
Kick off your meal with a Kale Greek Salad paired with Corn & Chickpea Fritters or the ever-classic Caesar. Small plates include the crowd-favourite Caterpillar Sushi and gooey Mexican Corn Cheese Croquettes, while mains swing from delicately crafted Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli and Risotto Primavera to heartier plates like Ras el Hanout Grilled Chicken and Fragrant Chilli Yaki Udon Noodles.
Mercii
Another chance to take home this collectable is at Mercii in Santacruz. This restaurant is also bringing the beloved Labubu to your table. Order from this exclusive set menu and get a chance to take home your very own collectable Labubu doll. Until July 10, order from the special Labubu’s Prix Fixe menu. The playful set menu is packed with quirky, globally inspired dishes, think smashed avocado with tortilla chips, cauliflower-filled mini pitas, crispy chicken schnitzel, and indulgent mains like Mushroom Mayhem and Potato Mille Feuille.
Zima
Zima is also celebrating this popular toy with a special 7-course menu inspired by the character. Along with the meal, guests get to take home this rare collectable doll, which comes free with their meal. They even have a Labubu-inspired grey cake that you can enjoy along with your dinner. This experience is by reservation only with limited seats.
Sure, this doll might have become everyone’s favourite overnight, but let’s not forget that most trends ride on the coattails of celebrity endorsement, and Labubu is no exception. The internet has long had a soft spot for creatures that teeter on the edge of cute and creepy (remember Dobby?), and we’ve seen time and again how quickly “must-haves” turn into drawer clutter. Whether you choose to splurge on what is essentially a glorified bag charm or not is entirely up to you. As for me? I’ll be waiting for the next oddly adorable thing the algorithm throws our way, hopefully, one that’s worth both the hype and the price tag.