Wagamama’s Mumbai debut brings familiar global favourites with a few highs, a few misses, and a cocktail worth returning for.
Wagamama’s first India outpost has opened its doors in Mumbai’s Cambata Building at Churchgate, marking a significant step for the cult pan-Asian chain that has built a global reputation since its beginnings in London. The restaurant carries forward its signature aesthetic—minimalist, bright, and communal. Long wooden benches, an open kitchen, and a bustling energy set the tone for what is meant to be an easy, fuss-free dining experience.
The meal began on a high with the Mushroom Bao, which turned out to be the table’s unanimous favourite. Soft steamed buns cradled earthy mushrooms, crisp panko-fried aubergine, and fresh coriander, finished with vegan mayo. Each bite was balanced and textural, proving that Wagamama knows how to perfect comfort food classics with broad appeal.
The Corn Ribs followed, delivering the kind of playful, snackable fun that keeps the brand relevant across markets. Charred, seasoned, and designed for sharing, they were an easy win. The Bang Bang Prawns then hit the right spot—spicy, juicy prawns in a punchy firecracker sauce that walked the line between sweet, tangy, and spicy. Bold and addictive, it was the kind of dish that disappears quickly once placed on the table.
For the main course, the Pad Thai was a familiar and obvious choice but unfortunately fell short of expectations. Though comforting, it lacked the spark that defines a truly memorable plate of noodles—missing the depth of sauce, and that lively interplay of sweet, sour, and savoury. It was satisfying, but not standout.
The meal found its balance again with the Lychee Yuzu cocktail, a refreshing highlight of the afternoon. Floral, citrusy, and subtly sweet, it paired beautifully with the spice-forward dishes and added a sophisticated lift to the menu.
Service was smooth, attentive, and unfussy, ensuring the pace of the meal remained comfortable without ever feeling rushed. The communal seating, while new to Mumbai, fit seamlessly into the city’s sociable dining culture, making Wagamama an accessible option for groups and casual lunches.
In its India debut, Wagamama delivers a mix of highs and lows: small plates like the mushroom bao, corn ribs, and bang bang prawns hit the right notes, the Pad Thai could do with more flavour, and the lychee yuzu cocktail makes a persuasive case for a return visit. As a whole, it captures the essence of the brand, uncomplicated, global in outlook, and designed for sharing, while reminding diners that familiarity can sometimes come with uneven edges.
