9 dining destinations that go beyond the plate

Choosing where to eat often comes down to more than just the food. The menu matters, of course, but so does the mood of the space and how the experience comes together as a whole. In a dining scene that’s constantly shifting, finding restaurants that get this balance right can take some consideration. From new openings worth noting to well-loved favourites, this edit brings together places that stand out for both what’s on the plate and the atmosphere around it.

Whether it’s a relaxed catch-up, a special evening, or a meal planned with intent, these are restaurants worth keeping on your radar.

Gaijin, Mumbai

Gaijin channels Tokyo’s backstreet energy through a space inspired by Shinjuku’s narrow alleyways. The focus is on Japanese comfort food and inventive cocktails, lending the restaurant a lively, bar-led feel. The menu spans sushi, gyoza, and standout lamb ribs, all delivered with confident, well-balanced flavours. The braised lamb is rich without excess, the salmon maki clean and precise, and the chocolate cake with black sesame ice cream is indulgent yet restrained. Gaijin delivers on both flavour and atmosphere, living up to its reputation.

Dumbo Deli, Delhi

Dumbo Deli is a compact sandwich spot in Meherchand Market, best known for its focaccia sandwiches and neatly bottled drinks. The space is bright and pared back, with natural light filtering in through a small roof window. The Florentine is a standout—soft, fluffy focaccia layered with generous fillings—while the coffee and matcha come bottled, with the blueberry matcha a dependable favourite. With its focus on quality and simplicity, Dumbo Deli is an easy place to return to.

Espresso Any Day, Delhi

Espresso Any Day has quickly become a favourite for its inviting space and well-executed café menu. Bright, comfortable interiors set the tone for relaxed meals, while the honey cold brew is light and refreshing. The mango brioche bun is a must-order, and the Stracciatella Margherita pizzette stands out for its focaccia-like base and well-balanced sauce. With gluten-free options and thoughtful plating, it works just as well for a quick stop as it does for a longer sit-down.

Greenr Café, Mumbai

Greenr is a plant-forward café centred on fresh, wholesome food served in a relaxed, welcoming space. With its warm, homely feel, it lends itself easily to casual meals and easy coffee catch-ups. The menu spans jackfruit tacos, pumpkin and sage pasta, and generously topped nachos, alongside homemade sodas and well-crafted coffee. With plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, the food is as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Opa Kipos, Mumbai

Opa Kipos in Worli brings a lively take on Greek dining, with white-and-blue interiors, upbeat music, and its signature plate-breaking ritual. Known for its energetic atmosphere, it’s a popular pick for group dinners. The menu leans into comforting favourites, from seafood orzo to a well-seasoned vegetarian claypot—best enjoyed on evenings that call for good food and an easy, celebratory mood.

Bar Sōgo, Goa

Set above paddy fields in South Goa, Bar Sōgo offers a calm, thoughtfully designed setting. The space moves between cosy indoor seating, an upstairs lounge, and outdoor areas that come alive around sunset. Cocktails from the new menu are crisp and refreshing, with the Tradewind Highball and Colonial Highball standing out. Dishes like the Fiery Grilled Prawns, Southern Fried Chicken, and roasted cherry tomatoes with stracciatella are light yet full of flavour, making it an easy choice for relaxed, unhurried evenings.

Slow Tide, Goa

Slow Tide is a beachfront restaurant overlooking Anjuna Beach, best known for its Goan-inspired menu and easy coastal setting. The fish thali stands out for its balanced flavours and freshness, while small plates—from tostadas and fritters to moringa fritters and alonibhatt—are reliably good. Well-crafted cocktails and uninterrupted sea views make it a place to linger and take in the setting as much as the food.

Marseli Café, Bengaluru

Marseli Café is a quiet, European-style café in Bengaluru, known for its fresh, vegetable-forward approach to food. The menu leans light yet flavourful, with thoughtfully made pizzas, pancakes worth the wait, and well-crafted cappuccinos. The crème brûlée French toast stands out, best paired with hot chocolate or a Vietnamese iced coffee. This is a place to linger—unhurried, and led by the food.

33 & Brew, Bengaluru

India’s first vinyl microbrewery, 33 & Brew sits in Brookfield, Bengaluru, within a sleek, expansive space set inside a tech park. The menu, curated by chef Sabyasachi Gorai, draws from global influences, with the caramelised zucchini phyllo pie layered with grilled onions and toasted spinach standing out. With its easy blend of food, music, and design, the brewery offers a considered new perspective on the city’s drinking and dining scene.

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