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These 24 New Restaurants And Bars In India Are The Year-End Gift We All Deserve

From pan-Indian flavours to riverside sunsets, here's a curated look at the country’s newest culinary destinations.

| Vaishnavi Rana
ELLE Gourmet Banner (19)

December arrives with its usual promise of celebration, but this year the spotlight is on the country’s newest restaurants and bars, redefining how India eats, drinks, and gathers. In Mumbai, cafés and bakehouses blend nostalgia with modern craft, while in Bengaluru, rooftops and multi-level venues offer escapes above the city’s hum. Goa introduces riverside calm with menus built for sharing and sunset-long conversations, and Indore celebrates the nation’s culinary diversity under one roof. Pune, meanwhile, reimagines the neighbourhood bar as a sprawling, community-centred haven. These 23 new restaurants and bars invite guests into thoughtfully crafted spaces, where design, flavour, and atmosphere converge to define a new chapter in Indian dining.

Mumbai

1. Dough & Joe

There's a new 2,400 sq. ft. pizza-forward, coffee-first piazza and beanery founded by Priyanka and Khushal Kotak, inspired by their son Vansh’s love for good food. The menu spotlights slow-fermented pizzas like the Thecha Prawns Pizza and Bombay Kheema Pizza, small-batch pastas including the Ghee Roast Ravioli, and a standout coffee programme featuring Joe’s Special Vietnamese and Butterfly Lychee Matcha. Designed by Studio 6158, the space blends vintage Italian warmth with contemporary Mumbai character, complete with an open kitchen and a Vespa-adorned terrace. 

Where: Hill Road,Bandra West, Mumbai 

2. Kaspers

Mud crab gratin with lamb brain and Bengali dijonnaise

Bandra welcomes Kaspers, the latest neighbourhood bistro from Food Matters Group, co-founded by Jay Yousuf and Gauri Devidayal and conceptualised by Chef Will Aghajanian. The 1,000 sq. ft. space blends French bistro chic, Basque bar casualness, Italian generosity, and American ease. The menu reimagines bistro classics with playful twists, Bouillabaisse Toast, Taleggio Arancini, Morcilla de Kerala, Buffalo Tenderloin, and a rotating dessert selection. Handcrafted cocktails, a wine-by-the-glass programme, and whimsical touches, including artist Kacper Abolik’s cherub motifs and crayons at every table, make dining interactive. 

Where: Kaspers, Classic Corner, 7/8, St Andrews Road, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra-400050

3. Zaro

Golden Pistachio __ Zaro

Zaro brings a sense of considered indulgence to Bandra, a modern bakehouse and gifting studio shaped by nostalgia, heritage, and the quiet elegance of slow craft. The space is built on four-generation-old recipes, handmade butter and ghee, and a belief that food and gifting should feel personal. The menu is anchored in comfort with the Leek and Mushroom Pie, Butter Chicken Pie, Creamy Chicken Oven-Fresh Pie, Spinach and Corn Oven-Fresh Pie, and the soft, golden Zaro Special Cheese Korean Bun. Desserts read like refined postcards from patisserie: the Caramel Tres Leches Royale, Viennese Sacher Torte, Ispahan Entremet, Royal Praline Patisserie, and the Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. 

Where: 15th Rd., Bandra West, Mumbai

4. Houdini

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This theatrical new bar and restaurant by first-time restaurateur Sasha Tasgaonkar is built on the idea of affordable luxury and the magic of escape. Interiors by Minnie Bhatt lean into illusion with red columns, reimagined classical art, floating lamps and nostalgic glamour. Chef Krishna Khetle brings a cuisine-agnostic menu shaped by comfort and creativity, with highlights such as Kashmiri Paya Shorba, Éclair Samosa Soup, Maharashtrian Mezze, Sorcerer’s Seafood Seekh, Prawn Pesto Perfection Pizza, Flying Khow Suey and the indulgent Lobster Thermidor. Desserts like the Sea Salt No-Bake Chocolate Tart, 11:11 Make-a-Wish Cake and Kunafa Chocolate Cake extend the restaurant’s theatrical flair. At the bar, India’s pioneering mixologist Shatbhi Basu crafts cocktails that embrace Houdini’s spirit of escape, including the Midnight Oracle, The Houdini’s Potion, Mystic Mule, Golden Alchemy and Locked & Loaded. 

Where: Plot no. 126, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Opp. Toit, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel (W), Mumbai – 400013

5. Rasmanthan

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Founded by industry veterans Jino Joseph and Gee Varghese, Rasmanthan brings back the grandeur of Indian dining with its premium pure-vegetarian Gujarati and Rajasthani thali, a 28-dish celebration that changes daily. One day may open with Khaman Dhokla, Beetroot Cutlet, and Dahi Wada, followed by Dal Baati Churma, Paneer Maharani, Aloo Sambhariya, Surti Dal, and Masala Khichdi, ending with Moong Dal Halwa and Jalebi with Rabdi. Another day introduces Rajwadi Samosa, Paneer Vilayati, Marwari Lasuni Kadhi, and Palak Khichdi with Kesari Fruit Shrikhand or Motichoor Gulab Jamun. Served on engraved kansa thalis in a setting of marble, brass, and rich tones, Rasmanthan transforms tradition into quiet luxury.

Where: 1st Floor, Ambica Acropolis, Veera Desai Industrial Estate, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053

6. Akina

Akina makes her debut in Worli, redefining modern Asian dining with a blend of Japanese finesse, Indian soul, and Pan-Asian creativity. The 122-cover space by Aspect Hospitality features a Main Restaurant and an intimate 22-seater Cocktail Room. Chefs Ganesh Pandit, Tenzing Sherpa, and Ashwin Singh present standout dishes like Tuna Sol Kadi, Som Tam Bhel, Yuzu Gazpacho Sphere, Scallop Ceviche with Lychee Sorbet, Tuna Pizza, and Miso Black Cod. At the bar, Bensan Varghese’s cocktails draw from the five Japanese elements. Designed by Istaka, the interiors showcase rattan ceilings, a mother-of-pearl bar, and a celestial chandelier.

Where: Ascentia, Ground Floor, Sudam Kalu Ahire Marg, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400030

7. The Nook 

BUTTER CROISSANT

The Nook arrives in Bandra as a café-bar designed to feel like a soulful third space where coffee, cocktails, and community meet. Born from the founder’s love for hosting and her background in film and design, it blends mid-century modern elements with raw textures, earthy tones, and cinematic lighting that shifts from day to golden hour. The menu spans thoughtful brews like the Croissant Latte and Café Bombón to inventive cocktails such as Smoke & Soil and The Grind. Dishes like Cashew Essence with wasabi pea mousse and Fig Crostini reflect its creative spirit. 

Where: The Nook, shop no. 5 and 6, Ground Floor, ONGC Geliki building, HIG Colony, Reclamation, Bandra West, Mumbai - 400050

8. 8ish

8ish rises in Nariman Point as a soft rebellion against the city’s deadlines and noise, shaped as a ritual rather than a destination. Designed by Shweta Kaushik, its textured grey walls, aged wood, maroon marble bar, and warm amber glow create an atmosphere that shifts with the evening. Jishnu A.J.’s menu plays with mood and memory through cocktails like Nearly Misbehaved, Liquid Sand, and The In-Between. The food follows the same instinctive comfort, with Pão de Queijo, Asparagus Ceviche, Buff and Bone Marrow Slider, and Sambuca Togarashi Scallops anchoring the experience. 

Where: Ground Floor, Express Towers, Ramnath Goenka Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai – 400021

9. Cantina

Mumbai’s dining landscape gets a spirited new entrant with Cantina at Godrej BKC, an all-day Italian-American restaurant and bar by Origin Restaurants. Co-founded by Shaurya Malwa and Yagyarth Meiwal, and helmed by globally acclaimed Chef Anthony Burd, Cantina celebrates the bold, abundant flavours of Italian-American cooking. Expect 48-hour fermented New York–style pizzas like Pepperoni and Bombay Hot; fresh pastas including Mushroom Bolognese and Prawns Tortellini; and crowd-pleasers such as Mozzarella Sticks, Fried Calamari, and Eggplant Parmigiano. A playful cocktail program, lively design, and touches like an in-house Letterbox create a space shaped for community, comfort, and unapologetic fun.

Where: B, Plot No C-68, Jet Airways, Godrej BKC, Unit 1, BKC, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400051

10. Nanna House

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Created by Mir Aga Syed, founder of Aegyo Cafe and Dirty Martini, Nanna House in Bandra is a one-of-a-kind eatery dedicated to Andhra morning classics. The space is an ode to his daughters and the flavours of home. The menu celebrates comforting staples like Pesarattu, Poori Saagu, Babai Idli, Millet Cone Idli, Butter Idli, and the theatrical 70mm Dosa, served with punchy chutneys and strong filter kaapi. With no fixed seating and a fast-moving rhythm, Nanna House channels the warmth, nostalgia, and soul of Andhra mornings straight onto Mumbai’s breakfast table.

Where: Shop #2 Param Jyot, 16th Road, Bandra West

11. The Penang Table

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The Penang Table is a new Malaysian restaurant from Kishore DF, the mind behind Pot Pourri, Lemon Grass, Seijo & The Soul Dish, WTF and Tanjore Tiffin Room, which brings Malaysia’s layered culinary DNA to a premium casual space shaped by warmth, colour and memory. Head Chef Mitesh Rangras creates dishes that speak in sweet, sour, salty and spicy notes at once: comforting bowls like Asam Laksa and Nattu Kozhi Rassam; bright plates such as Tender Coconut & Avocado Salad and Sarawak-Style Hamachi Ceviche; and signatures including Roti John, Roti Canai, Banana Leaf Grilled Fish, Parmesan-Crusted Portobello, Nasi Lemak, Char Kway Teow, Mee Goreng Mamak and richly spiced curries like Rendang and Kari Kapitan. Sunlit interiors, Malayan jungle murals, bamboo blinds and earthy textures capture the spirit of Southeast Asia while staying rooted in Mumbai. 

Where: 1st Floor, VN Sphere Mall, Linking Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, 400050

12. The Bombay Swim Club, ICONIQA Hotel

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The Bombay Swim Club, Mumbai’s first rooftop day club at ICONIQA, brings a sun-soaked, skyline-front escape to Andheri East with an infinity pool, Jacuzzi zones, splash decks, and sweeping runway views. Its Japanese-Mexican kitchen delivers tempura shrimp with chipotle aioli, yellowtail tiradito with jalapeño salsa, grilled lamb kofta, spicy tuna rolls, and tempura fish tacos with yuzu slaw. The cocktails lean into wanderlust, with signatures like Pomelo Hikari, Katsu Mary, Sensu and Siam Sour. Open daily from 4 PM to 1 AM, it blends skyline lounging, global flavours and a spirited poolside rhythm.

Where: ICONIQA Hotel, Opp. Terminal 2, Andheri East

13. Oju


OJU Mumbai, the newest concept from Neuma’s hospitality collective, brings a high-energy, cocktail-forward dining experience to its iconic Mandlik Road bungalow. Led by Chef Mahmoud “Moh” Gaber of Nobu and Mimi Kakushi, and Chef Nitin Bhardwaj, the menu blends Japanese technique with global accents, from Tofu Carpaccio and Hamachi Ponzu to Miso Black Cod, Hokkaido Scallops and inventive maki. Award-winning bartender Mukesh crafts signatures like Beet & Miso, Genmaicha and Lima alongside vibrant alcohol-free serves. Designed by Aayushi Malik, the space pairs an intimate bar room with a lush outdoor glasshouse.

Where: 1st Floor, Garden Chalet 4/6, Mandlik Rd, near Regal Cinema, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

New Delhi & Gurugram

1. Si Nonna's

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Si Nonna’s brings its 500-year-old Neapolitan sourdough tradition to Delhi with the opening of its GK2 outpost. Known for its 24-hour fermented sourdough and slow-crafted Italian techniques, the pizzeria serves some of its most-loved signatures: Pizza No. 2 with tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella and basil; Pizza No. 3 with garlic, olives and capers; Pizza No. 6, Pizza No. 8, Panuozzo sandwiches, Eggplant Parmigiana, kombuchas, coolers, fresh gelatos and Nonna’s iconic tiramisu. The warm, open kitchen lets guests customise pizzas, don aprons and craft their own pie. 

Where: M-50, Ground Floor, M Block Market, GK2

2. Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia Bakery Cupcakes

Magnolia Bakery, New York’s iconic dessert institution, has opened its first NCR store in Gurugram. Famous for its classic American baked goods and globally loved Banana Pudding, the brand brings its warm décor and made-from-scratch philosophy to a new 1,550 sq ft space at Godrej GCR. Brought to India by Spago Foods in 2019, Magnolia Bakery now has 11 outlets across Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Gurugram, marking this launch as its northern debut. 

Where: Ground Floor, Unit 8, Godrej GCR, Sector 42, Gurugram

3. The Flying Trunk, Novotel New Delhi City Centre

The Flying Trunk at Novotel New Delhi City Centre lifts the city’s evenings skyward with 360° views, an infinity pool blurring into the skyline, and a bar-first energy overlooking Jama Masjid and Connaught Place. Its menu, “Silk, Spice and the Stories Between,” charts a journey through Asia’s most electric markets, travelling from Kabul to Kyoto and Bangkok to Xi’an. The bar leads the narrative with pandan-infused gin and smoked honey, a Clarified Chai Spritz, Yuzu Highballs, and a Tokyo Old Fashioned. 
Where: Novotel New Delhi City Centre, (A Unit of D J Infrastructure Developers Pvt. Ltd.) 1, Deshbandhu Gupta Road, Delhi, India 110055 

4. One Door Down

ONE DOOR DOWN, GURGAON

One Door Down is Gurgaon’s newest high-energy resto-bar, blending Med–Indian fusion cuisine, mood-driven music, and refined cocktails in a warm, contemporary setting. Founded by Amit Kumar and Ravi Nara, the space pairs soulful lighting and plush interiors with a fresco-style outdoor section that shifts easily from daytime coffees to lively evenings. Music shapes its identity, with themed nights spanning Sufi with a Twist, Latin Thursdays, NuDisco Fridays, Afro House Saturdays and all-white Sunday brunches. The menu by Chefs Megha Kohli, Noah Barnes and Ruchira Hoon spans Burrata with tamarind dressing, Harissa Fish and Tres Leches.

Where: Bestech Chambers, Sushant Lok

Hyderabad

1. Babylon 2.0

Babylon 2-min

Here comes Babylon Brewery & Club 2.0, a sprawling 1-lakh sq. ft. experiential destination in the Financial District, redefining nightlife, architecture, and luxury. By day, sunlight floods monumental halls as handcrafted beers, Mediterranean small plates, wood-fired grills, and hand-stretched pizzas create a lively social sanctuary. By night, soaring domes, LED constellations, multi-level dance floors, and signature cocktails, saffron elixirs, barrel-aged classics, turn Babylon into a cinematic kingdom of rhythm and revelry. A city within a city, it celebrates ambition, scale, and unforgettable nights.

Where: 148/2/E, Nanakramguda Financial District, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500032

2. T3 - Theta Theta Telugu 

T3 Ambiance

Hyderabad welcomes Theta Theta Telugu (T3), a 96-seater, 4,500 sq. ft restaurant above Coffee Sangam in Jubilee Hills, offering Telugu cuisine through refined technique and cultural intent. Founded by Sampath Tummala of The Spicy Venue and Coffee Sangam, and led by Chef-Partner Vignesh Ramachandran, T3 showcases regional sourcing, Pennada brinjal, Potla sheep, Godavari prawns, Krishna-backwater murrel, Guntur Teja chilli and more. Dishes reinterpret memory with clarity, from Mudapappu Hummus and Grilled Ghee Upma to Chintapandu Ghee Prawns and Mutton & Ragi Sangati. A 0% ABV beverage program and temple-inspired design complete the experience.

Where: 8-2-293/82/A/270/A, Road No. 10 A, Gayatri Hills, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500045

Bengaluru

1. Arena

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Arena debuts in Indiranagar as a pyramid-inspired, multi-sensory destination spanning four distinct levels, each offering a unique mood, flavour, and vibe under the philosophy “Many Worlds. One Destination.” Guests can relax on breezy terraces, dine in the refined brewhouse, enjoy the high-energy central zone, or head to Daffys for playful comfort dishes. The menu features global plates like Guacamole Tarts, Char Sui Pork Belly, Truffle Ricotta Cannelloni, and Daffys' favourites such as Smoked Chilli Chicken and Honey Almond Pie. Inventive cocktails, Popcorn Whisky, Singing Sunset, Forbidden Fling, and in-house craft brews complete the experience, making Arena perfect for celebrations.

Where: Indiranagar, Bengaluru

2. Kai - Bar & Kitchen

Kai - Bar & Kitchen - Bengaluru2

Bengaluru’s Kai – Bar & Kitchen redefines the rooftop experience 13 floors above MG Road, offering a 360-degree panorama of the city. Designed by Maze Concept Design Studio, the space blends palace-inspired grandeur with contemporary flair, featuring peacock-feather ceilings, LED lighting, semi-outdoor seating, private dining, and terraces for sundowners. Head Chef Virendra Singh Chauhan presents global small plates, playful fusions, and large-format mains, while Ashish Adhikari’s bar offers inventive cocktails alongside Japanese whiskies, Indian malts, and classics. Kai’s philosophy: freedom to craft your own experience, where energy, calm, celebration, and connection coexist. A cinematic rooftop for discovery, dining, and drinks.

Where: Du Parc Trinity 17, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, opposite Bank of Baroda, Craig Park Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001

Goa

1. one8 Commune

One 8 Commune Goa - Shot By Ashish Sahi (3)

one8 Commune, co-owned by Virat Kohli, opens its 16th outlet on the Chapora riverside in Goa on 5 November 2025. Designed by Aayushi Malik, the space blends Mediterranean charm with coastal ease, sun-washed textures, breezy canopies, floral umbrellas, and winding wooden paths that frame stunning river views. The menu champions global comfort food, from mezze platters, burrata, truffle mushroom phyllo, and pizzas to Goan-inspired seafood and Indian mains. The bar programme, “Classic Comebacks,” elevates timeless cocktails with contemporary flair. With relaxed elegance, riverside ambience, and a menu for sharing, one8 Commune Goa is a vibrant retreat for sunsets, long lunches, and festive nights.

Where: Number SY NO. 64/1, Ground Floor, Badem, &, Assagao, Goa 403517

Indore

1. Masala Code

Indore welcomes Masala Code, the city’s first pan-Indian restaurant, uniting 29 regional cuisines under one roof. Conceptualised by Chef Vedant Newatia, Masala Code blends modern culinary flair with traditional craftsmanship. Designed by London-based architect Karan Gandhi, the 3,150 sq. ft. space features terracotta floors, handcrafted tiles, bespoke furniture, and The Spice Wall, a sculptural homage to India’s signature ingredient. From breakfast classics like Aloo Paratha and Benne Dosa to regional mainstays such as Kolkata Biryani, Mutton Rogan Josh, and Andhesha Kala Chicken, the menu is a journey across India. Signature cocktails draw inspiration from local flavours, from Kashmir’s Lolab to Assam’s Majuli.

Where: G8, Satguru Parinay, Opp. C21 Mall, AB Road, Indore 452001

Pune

1. Elephant & Co.

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After nine years, Elephant & Co. unveils ECO 3.0, an 8,000 sq. ft. home for Pune’s community. The bar blends three experiences: a Beer Garden, a Cocktail Bar, and an Elevated Deck for live music and intimate dining. Chef Hanoze Shroff and Chef Rohit More bring back fan favourites, Crispy Kale Chaat, Buff Benny, Mushroom Crepes, alongside inventive cocktails inspired by real moments, including “That Asshole” and “Calling in Sick.” Designed by Spiro Spero Studio, the space features a 24-foot bar, vintage timber, and a 5,000 sq. ft. bamboo garden oasis. 

Where: Kalyani Nagar, Pune

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