This month, India’s dining scene is serving more than just plates, it’s plating up stories. Think spirited bar takeovers, chef-driven menus, indulgent staycations, and pop-ups that demand a reservation and reward the palate.
Waarsa, “Women of Awadh – A Legacy Honoured”
Waarsa, the modern Awadhi restaurant by Chef Rahul Akerkar and Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality at NCPA, Mumbai, presents Women of Awadh — a limited-edition culinary showcase running August 15–24, 2025.
Helmed by home chef Sheeba Iqbal of Naimat Khana, the menu draws from Lucknow and Bhopal’s royal kitchens and her own family traditions. Expect Ghutwan Kebab, Mutton Yakhni Pulao, Achhari Machli, Baingan ka Raita with Besan ki Tikiyan, and desserts like Qiwami Siwayin, Zarda, and Ande ka Halwa.
Dates: August 15–24, 2025
Timings: 12–4 pm & 7 pm–1 am
Address: Waarsa, NCPA Gate 2, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021
Reservations: +91 95949 43555
Late Checkout x Paradiso
Get ready to experience the best of Barcelona in Mumbai! Late Checkout is thrilled to announce an exclusive two-night takeover by Paradiso, ranked #1 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022, happening on August 13th and 14th. Within just 24 hours of the announcement, both nights were completely sold out, making it one of the city’s most anticipated and fastest-selling bar experiences yet.
This iconic Barcelona bar, hidden behind a pastrami storefront in the hip El Born district, will bring its signature blend of artistry, sustainability, and innovative mixology to Mumbai.
Think Gaudí-inspired decor, laser projections, smoke domes, and natural elements that will make their cocktails come alive.
Giacomo Giannoti — the genius behind Paradiso’s world-renowned cocktails — is set to unleash a symphony of flavours like never before.
When: 13th & 14th August
Where: Late Checkout, Lower Parel
For Reservations: https://bit.ly/PARAxLC
Karaoke at Lil Gamby
Time to bring out your inner rockstar at Lil Gamby’s Karaoke Night, no rules, no filters, just all-out fun! On 13th August, join Dr. Pooja and KJ Shane for a night filled with sing-alongs, belly laughs, and all your favorite tracks on full blast.
Where: Lil Gamby, Lower Parel.
What: Karaoke Night
When: 13th August 2025.
From Mount Fuji’s Calm to Mexico’s Heat — KOKO’s Polar Menu is Back
KOKO returns this August with the 2nd edition of its Polar Menu — a month-long, limited-edition cocktail journey where Japan’s serene sake meets Mexico’s fiery tequila. Available from 8th August to 15th September across Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, the menu plays with contrasts — refined yet rebellious, cool yet electric.
Where:
- KOKO Mumbai – Kamala Mills
- KOKO Bengaluru – Prestige Icon, Old Airport Road
- KOKO Hyderabad – RMZ Nexity, HITEC City
When: 8th August – 15th September 2025
Price: 995++ (Mumbai & Bengaluru), 1050++ (Hyderabad)
Reservations: Mumbai – +91 77159 63030 | Bengaluru – +91 98443 04747 | Hyderabad – +91 97022 44818
Bayroute – Tequila Festival
Raise a glass and toast to a tequila experience like no other at Bayroute! Their latest tequila Festival offerings promise bold flavors, creative blends, and a celebration in every sip. Whether you’re in the mood for a smooth classic or an inventive twist, this is your cue to sip, savor, and celebrate in style.
Where: Bayroute, All Outlets.
What: Tequila Festival
When: 31st August 2025
Pomodoro
Bandra’s beloved Italian spot, Pomodoro, marks five months with a monsoon-special menu inspired by the view from its windows and the vibe inside its walls. Think Corn & Chilli Fritto, Limone Pepperoncino, Orzo Piccante, and more — seasonal plates that are stylish, soulful, and a little indulgent.
When: 11 July – 30 August 2025
Where: Pomodoro, 16th Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai
Yazu
Yazu Goa serves comfort in a bowl with The Ramen Route, a limited-time menu by Chef Vadim Shin. Slurp into Shoyu, Miso, and Kimchi ramen, loaded with monsoon-fresh shiitake, bok choy, asparagus, crispy garlic, nori, and more — with customisable proteins. Perfect for rainy-day lingering.
When: 1 July – 30 August 2025, from 1 pm onwards
Where: Marquis Beach Resort, Candolim, Goa
Reservations: 074477 09661
Journal Hosts The ReWear Project: A Streetwear Painting Workshop
This August, Journal, Santacruz’s neighbourhood café, brings creativity and sustainability together with The ReWear Project — a streetwear painting workshop led by artist-entrepreneur Amolika Rege. Guests are invited to bring in pre-loved pieces like denim jackets, jeans, sneakers, or bags, and transform them into personalised, wearable art using hand-painting, stencilling, and creative embellishments. With Amolika’s guidance, participants will explore painting techniques, glow-in-the-dark details, and a custom charm station with patches, beads, and trinkets for a unique finish. All materials are provided, making it an accessible, hands-on experience.
More than just an art session, The ReWear Project is a community-driven afternoon designed to inspire, connect, and celebrate the joy of creating.
Date: Saturday, 23rd August 2025
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Venue: Journal Café, Santacruz (West), Mumbai
Fee: Wallets & Bags ₹599 | Sneakers ₹999 | Jackets & Pants ₹1500 (charms & patches at additional cost)
A Long Weekend of Freedom at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport
Celebrate the Independence Day long weekend with indulgence, relaxation, and vibrant evenings at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport. Enjoy early check-ins*, curated in-room surprises, refreshing pool dips, spa therapies, live music, hi-tea by the pool, and themed dining — including a freedom lunch on 15th August, Indian fine dining at Ummrao, and a festive brunch on 17th August.
As night falls, ARK 2.0 comes alive with exclusive DJ nights:
15 Aug: AudioUnits & Tuhin Mehta with Sumeet Beats
16 Aug: Audio Kidnapping & Bearded Panda (Mumbai debut)
Bookings: +91 22-61369999 | Marriott.com/BOMCY
Celebrate Parsi New Year at Parsi Dhaba, Della Resorts
This Parsi New Year, savour the rich flavours of Parsi heritage at Della Resorts’ charming Parsi Dhaba in Lonavala. Enjoy festive favourites like Jardalu Boti, Sali Ma Marghi, signature Parsi Dhansak, Patra ni Machhi, Berry Pulao, and the classic Lagan Custard — all crafted from time-honoured recipes. Surrounded by the serene Sahyadris, it’s the perfect setting for a celebratory family feast.
Where: Della Resorts, Lonavala
When: 15th August, 2025
Cost per Person: 2000++
Reservations: +91 73852 22600
Monkey Bar x The Bohri Kitchen: Local Legends Takeover
For two weeks only, Monkey Bar Bandra teams up with The Bohri Kitchen for Local Legends, spotlighting the rich, hearty flavours of Bohri cuisine. Feast on smoked mutton samosas, baida roti, nariyal kebabs, dal patti samosa, and stuffed mushroom paratha — perfect for sharing and savouring.
When: 10 – 24 August 2025
Where: Monkey Bar, Ground Floor, Summerville, Linking Road, Bandra West
Reservations: 077100 83222
Kona Kona x Yasmin Qureshi Pop-Up
Kona Kona collaborates with Yasmin Qureshi — daughter of Padma Shri Chef Imtiaz Qureshi — for a four-day Awadhi feast from August 14–17. Inspired by family recipes and culinary legacy, the menu features Lucknowi Mutton & Kathal Biryani, Galouti Kebabs, Barra, Dahi Kebab, Prawns, Chicken Curry, Nihari, and indulgent Shahi Tukda & Phirni. Part of Kona Kona’s initiative spotlighting women in food, this pop-up is heritage, emotion, and slow-cooked love on a plate.
Dates: August 14–17, 2025
Location: Kona Kona, Mumbai
Kolhapur Comes to Sorozaie
This Independence Day weekend, Sorozaie, Versova, teams up with Chef Reshma of Every Aroma for a fiery Kolhapuri pop-up. Feast on Mutton Masala, Pandra Rassa, Kharda, Chicken Keema, Kothimbir Wadi, and tup-soaked Puran Poli — plus, try crafting your own Kolhapuri chappals with local artisans.
When: August 15th & 16th, 2025
Price: 500++
Where: Sorozaie, Versova
RSVP: 87798 59450
The Bombay Canteen: Independence Day Daawat
Celebrate August 15 with The Bombay Canteen’s Independence Day Daawat — a community-style, dine-in-only lunch served on banana leaves, with proceeds supporting NatureRe’s ecosystem restoration efforts. Expect a feast of regional flavours: smoked chausa dal (Uttarakhand), black vatana misal (Maharashtra), aaloo saag paneer (Kashmir), Punjabi kadhi, and more — all paired with Bihar’s refreshing Bael Sharbat.
When: 15 August 2025, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: The Bombay Canteen, Unit-1, S.B. Road, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel
Seating: First-come, first-served
Pre-Independence Day Bar Night at Mercii Mumbai
Mercii Mumbai x Sexy Beach Entertainment bring a high-energy pre-Independence Day party on 14th August with bold beats, elevated cocktails, and Flipsyd on deck. This marks the launch of a nightlife series blending great taste with great sound, set in Mercii’s luxe European bar space.
When: Wednesday, 14th August | 9:00 PM onwards
Where: Mercii, Mumbai
Celebrate Freedom the Spanish Way at Milagro
Milagro in Prabhadevi invites you to honour Independence Day with a feast of bold Spanish flavours, fine wines, and handcrafted cocktails. Gather your friends and family in the restaurant’s opulent yet inviting space, where vibrant dishes are meant for sharing and every moment feels like a celebration.
Where: Milagro, 5th Floor, S.V. Swatantryaveer Savarkar Rd, opposite Century Bazaar, Prabhadevi, Mumbai
When: 15th August 2025
Cost for Two: 4000/-
Celebrate Independence Day with Comfort & Cocktails at Eve, Santacruz
Eve in Santacruz invites you to mark the day with laid-back charm, comfort food, and spirited cocktails from their Monsoon Menu. Savour small plates like Baked Vada Pav, Kung Pao Cottage Cheese, and Lamb Seekh Kebabs, or indulge in heartier favourites like Burrata Saag with Makai Roti and Smoked Chicken Curry. Pair your feast with monsoon-perfect sips such as Tamarind Takedown or Mango Magic Potion.
Where: Eve, Santacruz (West), Mumbai
When: 15th August 2025 | Monsoon Menu available until 7th September
Cost for Two: 3500 (with drinks) / 2500 (without drinks)
Reservations: 9167026000 / 9167027000
Savour Freedom with Thai Flavours at Nara Thai
This 15th August, The Curry Shop at Nara Thai celebrates unity through flavour with curry bowls inspired by Bangkok’s bustling gaeng shops and elevated with Nara’s signature elegance. Relish fiery Tom Yum Seafood Curry, fragrant Massaman Pulled Lamb with Thai Roti, plant-powered Spicy Mock Meat with Thai Roti, and the soulful Chiang Mai Garden Curry Bowl — each crafted with slow-simmered broths, in-house pastes, and layered aromatics for a feast worthy of freedom.
Where: Nara Thai, Ground Floor, Raheja Towers, Near Dena Bank, BKC, Mumbai
When: 15th August 2025
Cost for Two: 3500
Sip & Savour at Smoke House Deli’s Deli Sapphire Hour
Smoke House Deli invites you to slow down and sip on five artfully crafted Bombay Sapphire cocktails that celebrate botanical brilliance and seasonal flavours. From the citrusy Sunset Grove G&T and refreshing Monsoon Bloom G&T, to the zingy Amber Trail G&T, aromatic Blooming Orchard G&T, and the indulgent Bombay Matcha, each creation blends familiar ingredients with a creative twist. Available across Mumbai, Delhi, Dehradun, and Bangalore until 18th August — perfect for breezy afternoons or unhurried evenings.
Where: Smoke House Deli – Mumbai, Delhi, Dehradun, Bangalore
When: Until 18th August 2025
Cost for Two: 2500 (approx., with drinks)
K Bhagat Tarachand
This Independence Day, celebrate India’s spirit with the timeless flavours of K Bhagat Tarachand, an iconic name in vegetarian dining since 1895. From the bustling lanes of Zaveri Bazaar to modern Mumbai, the brand has been serving recipes steeped in tradition for over 130 years. Savour their special Independence Day menu — from the spicy-crunchy Papad Churi and comforting Sev Tomato to rich Paneer Bhurji and the legendary Chaas. Each dish is handcrafted to honor their legacy while bringing families together over food that feels like home.
Price: À la carte
Timings: 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Available at: All Mumbai outlets – Zaveri Bazaar, Masjid Bunder, Malad, Andheri, Borivali, Phoenix Market City Kurla, Sky City Mall
Rage by the Bay at Farzi Beach, Morjim
Farzi Beach turns up the heat this Independence Day long weekend with Rage by the Bay—four days of music, cocktails, and beachside vibes from 14–17 August. Expect sundowners, late-night dancing, and the best of Goa’s electric energy, right on Morjim’s iconic shoreline.
When: 14–17 August 2025
Where: Farzi Beach, Morjim, Goa
Navroz Brunch at Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
This Parsi New Year, celebrate with a lavish festive brunch at Pondichéry Café on Sunday, 17 August 2025. Indulge in Parsi classics like Patra ni Machhi, Dhansak, Kolmi no Patio, Salli Boti, and an Egg Kejriwal Station with vegetarian options. Savour appetisers like Parsi Mutton Cutlet and Chicken Farcha, and end on a sweet note with Lagan nu Custard, Irani Mawa Cake, and Papa Roti. Sip on refreshing Anar Ambrosia and Nariyal Nectar for the perfect festive toast.
When: Sunday, 17 August 2025
Time: 12:00 PM onwards
Where: Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Reservations: 022-61175000 | +91 9167391130
Weekday Three-Course Lunch at BANNG Gurugram
BANNG Gurugram brings Bangkok’s bold flavours to your workday with a new three-course weekday lunch menu—appetizer, main, and dessert for 1500++. Available Monday to Friday, 12:30–3:30 PM, it’s perfect for a swift business lunch or a midday Thai escape.
When: Monday–Friday | 12:30–3:30 PM
Where: BANNG, Two Horizon Centre, Gurugram
Price: 1500++
Call: +91 93550 84422
BeeYoung Brewgarden Turns One with a New Indian Menu
North India’s largest microbrewery marks its first anniversary with a flavour-packed new menu inspired by guest favourites. From Indian street food and smoky tandoori specials to hearty mains, each dish is designed to pair perfectly with BeeYoung’s award-winning craft brews. Enjoy the vibrant flavours alongside arcade games and the lively Euro-style ambiance that makes BeeYoung Brewgarden a Delhi favourite.
Where: BeeYoung Brewgarden, Delhi
When: Ongoing
Cost for Two: 2500++
Frozen Fun’s New Sundae Menu is Here to Tempt You
Frozen Fun is turning up the indulgence with seven decadent new sundaes, each crafted for maximum delight. From fruity Strawbaby Stack and sweet-salty Midnight Popcorn to rich Fudge It and coffee-laced Espresso Yourself — plus crunchy Honey, I Crunched It, indulgent The Sticky Situation, and cookie-packed Cookie Chaos — there’s something for every craving.
When: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Where: Khan Market & One Horizon, Delhi. Coming soon to Bandra & Palladium, Mumbai.
Celebrate Onam with a Traditional Sadhya at Kerala Quarters
Kerala Quarters is ringing in the Onam spirit with a lavish Sadhya that’s as authentic as it gets. Served on a banana leaf, this feast features 30 vegetarian dishes crafted to represent Kerala’s six rasas—blending sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent flavours in perfect harmony. Every bite is a taste of tradition.
Sadhya Samriddhi Takeaway Box (Pre-order only)
When: Aug 30–31 & Sept 5–6
Price: 1599 + taxes
Unlimited Onam Sadhya (Dine-in)
When: Sept 5, 2025 | Lunch slots: 12–2 PM & 2:15–4 PM
Price: 1899 + taxes
For bookings: 8879036062
Soulful Sundays at The Bigg Small Café + Bar
Sundays get a delicious upgrade at The Bigg Small Café + Bar in Lower Parel with their all-new Sunday Brunch — a fresh spread, soulful live music, and infectious energy. Expect two appetisers to start, followed by dim sums or baos, and mains like TBS Pulled Butter Chicken and Miya Bhai Khurchan. A rotating live station keeps things exciting — from build-your-own crepes to freshly-carved shawarmas or cheeky tapas. The DIY Cocktail Counter lets you mix your own drink, with limited-edition tequila creations like jalapeño-infused highballs and smoky mezcal twists adding to the fun.
When: Every Sunday, 12:00 pm onwards
Where: The Bigg Small Café + Bar, One International Centre, Tower-2, Lower Parel
Price: Veg 1250++ | Non-Veg 1500++
Tel: 8655897023
Monday Karaoke Nights at The Bigg Small Café + Bar
Mondays get a high-energy twist at The Bigg Small Café + Bar, Lower Parel, with their all-new Monday Karaoke Nights — mic-drop moments, killer cocktails, and a food spread made for sharing. From iconic ballads to dance floor anthems, the vibe is electric, with top-notch screen setups, mood lighting, and a crowd that sings along to every note. Sip on signature cocktails, find your liquid courage, and pair it all with comfort classics and bold flavours — from sizzling bites to hearty plates perfect between songs. The interiors balance edgy and cozy, making it a night worth repeating.
When: Every Monday, 7:00 pm onwards
Where: The Bigg Small Café + Bar, One International Centre, Tower-2, Lower Parel
Tel: 8655897023
