11 culinary gems across the country you must visit before the year ends

We know it isn't easy to pick a fine-dine restaurant from the many that dot the city. If you, like us, love exploring all the new hotspots in town but also gravitate towards tried and tested gems for a comfort meal, then you're at the right place. We’ve curated 11 of our top picks that you need to check out before the year ends. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or want to revel in the comfort of knowing; this list has something for everyone. From innovative new menus to iconic culinary experiences that never disappoint, these are the places to savour unforgettable meals. Here’s everything hot and heavy in India at the moment, as far as food is concerned. Let's dive in!

Megumi, Mumbai

Picture this: sleek interiors that resemble Tokyo's trendiest neighbourhood, some authentic Japanese flavours, and an expansive bar menu. Megumi is not your average sushi joint; it's a contemporary pan-Asian restaurant that serves culinary finesse on a platter. The iceberg wafu salad with goma dressing, avocado carpaccio with lime and sea salt, and their extensive dessert selection is what caught out eye. Among our favourites, we recommend the chicken Yakitori ramen for some comfort after a long work day.

Mission Bay, Delhi

The newly-opened The Mission Bay in Malviya Nagar, New Delhi brings you a slice of San Francisco on a platter. Their menu featuring plates like shrimp, truffle & spinach risotto, parmesan sformato with roasted bell peppers, and ahi tuna poke is truly reminiscent of a typical Bay Area meal. As for dessert, don't miss the kouign amann, a light and crispy pastry, filled with a delicious apricot jam. You'll be left asking for seconds.

Poee & Co, Goa

Panjim's first 24-hour restaurant, Poee & Co. serves authentic Goan cuisine. Chef Saurabh Tyagi, who has previously worked under chef Gordon Ramsay at Maze, curated the menu to include an array of fusion delights. Picture all your favourite sandwiches and melts such as a crispy bbq funghi melt, and their signature Tokyo crispwich, with homemade Poe bread instead of your regular loaf, it's a bite to remember.

Nasi And Mee

Step into Nasi and Mee, and you'll feel like you've entered a contemporary haven. Its vibrant interiors, striking walls, and eccentric decor will make you feel right at home. Their new Omakase menu, however, is the exact opposite, in the best way possible. Think clean, simple, and downright heavenly dishes. At Nasi and Mee, you can also enjoy front-row seats to the chefs putting your entire meal together, which is always a delight.

Fenix at The Oberoi, Mumbai

Fenix at The Oberoi, Mumbai needs no introduction. This spot in Nariman Point is truly the best of all worlds, serving up everything from European delicacies to Japanese robatayaki. The best part? You can watch the magic happen live at their grills and sushi bars. With its all-natural light and spacious vibes, it is very likely to make it to your 'gram.

Waarsa, Mumbai

The Aditya Birla Group is bringing Awadhi cuisine back to Mumbai with a bang. With recipes that have been passed down through generations, Waarsa will transport you to the royal kitchens of Lucknow. Indulge in the slow-cooked seekh kebabs and the decadent biryani selection. Do not forget to try the authentic jalebis for dessert! 

Kopitiam x Masque, Mumbai

Bengaluru's beloved, Kopitiam Lah, is making waves in Mumbai with a pop-up at Masque. If you've been seeking authentic Malaysian cuisine in India, look no more. From kaya toast that'll transport you straight to a Kuala Lumpur coffee shop, to curry puffs that are worthy of being your cheat meal, Kopitiam will not disappoint. Their steamed eggs are probably the best egg preparation you’ll ever have.

Inja, Delhi

Inja in New Delhi is experimenting with a fusion of Indian and Japanese cuisines. Chef Adwait Anantwar is on a mission to combine the best of both the cuisines to formulate a delicious symphony of flavours that have never been experienced before. So standout dishes include the Soba, served in a corn raab and topped with a savoury Naga Smoked Pork. Their interiors, too, are a perfect blend of both cultures. 

Noah, Goa

Noah in Vagator is the newest addition to the incredible restaurants in Goa. It is here to prove that seaside dining can be both laid-back and luxe at the same time. Located alongside one of Goa's best beaches, this spot is rumored to be serving a mix of fresh local flavours and warm, breezy vibes. It's the kind of place where you can wiggle your toes in the sand while sipping on a craft cocktail.

SAZ, Mumbai

SAZ American Brasserie recently unveiled a brand-new food menu to go with their signature cartoon-inspired drinks. A place that's all about taking a walk down memory lane, and having fun with every single bite. SAZ is never a miss! With international favourites such as baked brie, and hasselback potato on their menu, this BKC gem is making a comeback and how! 

BONO Boutique Icecream, Mumbai

This lovely spot in Colaba is on a mission to change the way Mumbai eats ice cream. These stunning scoops are a work of art and we're here for it. They serve an array of unique ice cream flavours, but our favourite remains the lemon curd marshmallow. BONO also specialises in jams, sauces, and all sorts of toppings- but the pistachio soft serve with unicorn dust is high up on our list of things to try.

Laurel by Flavors, Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad folks, we have something for you, too! Laurel by Flavors is back, and better than ever; thanks to the culinary wizardry of founder Paresh Desai and Chef Parab. This isn't just a reopening, it's a full-blown glow-up. With a new and improved menu including flavours from around the world, we’re definitely excited to give this one a go. Take their Himalayan tehri for instance. It is paneer baked with a spicy honey gochujang sauce, some local vegetables and served in a Korean pot.

Lead image credits: Megumi /Nidhi & Mihir PR Consultancy

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