Avartana to Freny’s – check out Mumbai’s newest culinary gems
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Take a look at the newly opened restaurants in Mumbai where the design draws you in and keeps you hooked while the chef whips up a wholesome meal.
In a bustling metropolis like Mumbai, where new restaurants emerge almost every week, simply showcasing mouth-watering food isn’t enough to captivate attention. We shed light on the newly opened restaurants where the design draws you in and keeps you hooked while the chef whips up a wholesome meal.
Avartana |
Chennai’s Avartana that recently made it to the influential list of Asia’s Top 50 restaurants list has made its way to Mumbai. Named after the Sanskrit term evoking rhythm, mysticism, and magic, Avartana was established in Chennai in 2017, aiming to present diners with a vibrant array of South Indian flavours spanning from Kerala to Telangana. The menus, ranging from 7 to 13 courses, are titled Maya (seven courses, price starts at ₹2,500), Bela, Jiaa, Anika, and Tara (13 courses, priced at ₹4,750) which are bite sized courses. With the exception of Tara, which highlights coastal presentations, all menus offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Diipti Jadhav, Senior Sous Chef at ITC Maratha Mumbai and Chef in charge of Avartana, emphasises the growing awareness among guests regarding mindful, sustainable, and smart eating. She notes the rising popularity of fresh indigenous produce, regional millets, homemade preserves, probiotic food, and regional pounded masalas. The increased footfall at farmers’ markets in the city reflects this trend.
The demand for artisanal food stems from a desire for authentic and unique dining experiences, prioritising traditional cooking techniques and locally sourced seasonal ingredients over mass-produced foods. Guests are willing to pay a premium for handmade, unique dishes that reflect local culture and traditions, providing traceability of ingredients and heritage.
Where: ITC Maratha, Andheri, Mumbai
When: All days, 7 pm to 11 pm
Price: ₹6,000 for two approx.
La Panthera
La Panthera is a one-of-a-kind blend, stitching together culinary memories from Europe, almost sparking a sense of longing. The ambience gives us all the right feels as if your teleported to Europe. The stand out dishes for us were the Beetroot Carpaccio, Baked Brie, Lobster Roll, La Panthera Pizza and the Tiramisu La Panthera Way.
“Our menu embraces timeless European classics while playfully dancing with contemporary culinary techniques. Our ethos has always been simple, refined cooking where we let the ingredients shine. Elegant plating is the signature touch and exceptional taste reigns supreme” says Manuel Olveira, Owner and Chef – La Panthera.
Where: Unit 1 & 2, G Block, BKC, Mumbai
When: All days
Price: Rs 2,500 onwards per person
Lyla
Why does Mexican food have such a strong emotional connection with Mumbai people? It turns out that a number of things are at play. I started my meal at Lyla with my favourite Mexican appetizer, Summer Garden Guacamole served with tortilla chips. One of the standouts were the Ají Lima Churros. I was completely amazed, these churros with chilli lime spice were light, crunchy, and melted in my mouth —a savoury twist on a meal that is often relished sweet. My personal favourite was the Ciopinno, a seafood preparation that featured prawns, mussels, clams and squid floating in a tomatoey broth. The best part was that I suggested making room for the desserts. You have the option to choose from traditional dishes like Monstruo Churros and the Big Apple that are absolutely a must try.
Chef Beena Noronha, Corporate Chef, Chrome Asia Hospitality says, “The fusion of Mexican and Californian cuisines resonates with me, blending the bold, spicy tastes of Mexico with California’s fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. Despite the challenges posed by the lack of success of Mexican restaurants in Mumbai, I approached menu planning by focusing on ingredient celebration rather than adhering strictly to cuisine. Each dish in the menu is carefully crafted to tell a story, aiming to exceed guests’ expectations and stand out in a competitive market. Innovation is always prioritised to deliver a memorable dining experience.”
Where: Plot C/59, Ground Floor, Platina G Block, BKC
When: All days
Price: Rs 2,500 for two
Freny’s – All day dining & bar
What comes to mind when you think of “home”? It could hold various meanings for each of us. However, in one of its most idealistic portrayals, it’s often intertwined with family, comfort, and nostalgia. For food enthusiasts, unbeatable flavour is undoubtedly a crucial addition to that list.
At Freny’s we savoured delectable east Indian cuisine. We were particularly fond of the Cutlet Pav Sliders among the small plates. The Indyal Tacos and Masala Tiger Prawns showcased distinct flavours that stood out remarkably. For those who are chocolate lovers they have also introduced the gooey chocolate Matilda’s Chocolate Cake which was my personal favourite.
Chef Freny says, “It’s literally my heart on a plate! All the dishes I’ve loved as a chef through my life and travels abroad as well as dishes from my heritage and my East Indian Background. From the hot fugyas that are my version of a bread basket that comes on each table, to my dad, Peter’s mutton curry or as many guests call it “uncle peters mutton curry” to my mom Monica’s roast chicken.”
Where: Silver Pearl Building, W, Waterfield Road, opposite China gate, Bandra West, Mumbai
When: All days, 12pm to 12am
Price: Rs 1,000 onwards per persons
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