Gauri Khan Dazzles Mumbai with Her New Restaurant Venture, Torii

Gauri Khan Dazzles Mumbai with Her New Restaurant Venture, Torii

By Author

Published on February 12, 2024

Gauri Khan, renowned interior designer and wife of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, has expanded her illustrious portfolio with the launch of her latest venture, Torii, a restaurant that promises to add a new dimension to Mumbai's dining scene. With her exceptional design skills, Gauri Khan has already made significant strides in the design world through her firm, Gauri Khan Designs, transforming numerous celebrity homes and hospitality spaces into marvels of interior decor. Despite the challenges of balancing her professional identity with the celebrity status associated with her husband, Gauri continues to carve her niche, recently stepping into the literary world with her debut book, "My Life In Design."

About Gauri Khan

Gauri Khan's multifaceted career spans interior decorating, film production, and now, hospitality. Her design firm, Gauri Khan Designs, is known for its elegant and sophisticated makeovers of suburban Mumbai restaurants and celebrity homes, including those of Alia Bhatt, Karan Johar, and Malaika Arora, to name a few. Her ventures into restaurant design, like Arth and Sanchos, showcase her flair for creating spaces that are both stylish and inviting.

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Torii: A New Culinary Destination

Torii, set in the vibrant locale of Bandra, Mumbai, stands out with its unique offering of Latin-Asian fusion cuisine, a concept brought to life by the combined vision of Gauri Khan and the culinary expertise of expat Chef Thomas Catley, alongside entrepreneur Abhayraj Singh Kohli of Grandmama’s Cafe fame. The restaurant is poised to be a game-changer in Mumbai's dining landscape, particularly with its al fresco dining setup, a rarity in the city, providing a serene oasis amidst the urban hustle.

The restaurant's decor is a testament to Gauri Khan's design

 philosophy—minimal yet impactful, with murals of Japanese geishas and Latin American textiles blending to create an inviting atmosphere. Torii's menu is adventurous, aiming to meld the bold flavors of progressive Asian cuisine into innovative dishes that challenge and delight the palate. Highlights include the Watermelon Carpaccio, Tuna or Red Snapper Ceviche, and the vegetarian-friendly Beer Battered Snapper Tacos, showcasing fresh produce and strong, memorable flavors.

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With its dynamic ambience, knowledgeable service, and a drinks menu that features collaborations with Bombay Duck Brewing, Torii offers an immersive dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to innovation is evident in every aspect, from the food to the decor, making it a must-visit for those seeking new culinary adventures in Mumbai.

Torii is more than just a restaurant; it's a reflection of Gauri Khan's diverse talents and her ability to create spaces that tell a story. As Torii opens its doors, it invites diners to experience a fusion of cultures and flavors, set against the backdrop of Gauri's impeccable design. This new venture is a testament to her continuing impact on India's design and culinary landscapes, promising an unforgettable experience for all who visit.


DeVANS GianChand Manshaa Wins Big at ISW Germany, Crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025"

DeVANS GianChand Manshaa Wins Big at ISW Germany, Crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025"

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

In a landmark win for Indian spirits, DeVANS GianChand Manshaa has been crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025" at the renowned Meininger’s International Spirits Award (ISW) held in Germany. The peated single malt not only secured the prestigious Grand Gold but also emerged as the top international whisky, outshining legendary competitors from whisky powerhouses like Scotland, Ireland, and the USA.

Out of 450 global spirit entries, only 11 earned the coveted Grand Gold, DeVANS GianChand Manshaa being the only Indian whisky to achieve this. This dual honour reflects the growing sophistication and recognition of Indian whiskies on a global platform.

The latest expression from DeVANS, GianChand Manshaa is the brand’s first peated single malt, crafted in the Himalayan region. The whisky impressed the international jury with its "long medicinal peat smoke, perfectly framed by citrus and spicy flavours." Esteemed whisky critic and author of the Whisky Bible, Jim Murray, praised it for its “charming smokiness, with peat in sparkling form.”

Crafted using pure Himalayan waters and shaped by the region’s distinct microclimate, GianChand Manshaa stands as a symbol of India’s potential in the premium single malt category. The win adds to the growing list of accolades for DeVANS, following their recent victories at the International Whisky Competition (IWC) in Las Vegas, where GianChand Adambaraa was named Best Indian Single Malt Whisky 2025 and Best Indian Whisky of the Year 2025.

“This prestigious Grand Gold and INTERNATIONAL WHISKY OF THE YEAR award at ISW Meininger, Germany 2025 is a great recognition of our passion, craft and commitment to quality,” said Prem Dewan, Chairman and Managing Director of DeVANS. “It’s not only a victory for DeVANS, but also a recognition of India’s growing role in the global whisky space.”

Speaking on the brand's journey, Dewan added, “GianChand Manshaa and GianChand Adambaraa represent two facets of our legacy, one bold and peated, the latter refined and elegant. Their success is a tribute to our team’s hard work and a reaffirmation of India’s place in the world of single malts.”

Currently available in Delhi and Hyderabad duty-free, both GianChand expressions will soon hit retail shelves in Haryana and Goa. These achievements underline DeVANS’ commitment to excellence and its vision to elevate Indian whisky to global acclaim.

For whisky lovers and industry insiders alike, this moment is not just a triumph, it’s a proud celebration of the craftsmanship and innovation coming out of India’s distilleries today.


Organic Bistro Redefines Clean Comfort Dining in Delhi’s Khan Market

Organic Bistro Redefines Clean Comfort Dining in Delhi’s Khan Market

By Hariharan U

Published on August 1, 2025

Organic Bistro has opened its doors in the heart of Khan Market, New Delhi, offering a refreshing take on clean, ingredient led dining. With seating for 40 and interiors awash in soft pastels and natural light, the space reflects the bistro's philosophy: serving thoughtful, flavour forward meals without giing in to dietary fads or trends.

Founded by Saru Khemka and Arjun Gupta, Organic Bistro isn’t chasing trends or packaging wellness in cliché. It’s a space designed for people who want to eat clean — without being preached to. The focus? Good food, clear intent, and zero compromise on flavour or warmth.

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Chef Nishant Choubey, along with in-house chef Gourav Singh Mahori, has created a menu that’s bold yet grounded. Highlights include Purple Potato Dahi Vada, Peri Peri Chickpea Hummus, Jackfruit Haleem, Urfa Chicken Kebabs, and Achari Rajma Khichri with Torched Portobello, every dish carrying a purpose but none trying too hard.

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“We’re not trying to fit into binaries — indulgent vs. healthy. Organic Bistro sits in the thoughtful middle”, shares Saru Khemka. “People can keep coming back — solo or social — and the food will always feel real and comfortin”.

The beverage menu is no less intentional, with cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and preservative-free teas and coffees, extending the brand’s commitment to clean comfort.

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Chef Nishant echoes this clarity: “Guests today want flavour and freshness without feeling excluded. They care, but they’re not buying gimmicks. We’ve kept the menu open, balanced, and intuitive — whether you're in the mood for a salad or something soul-soothing”.

With plans to expand seating upstairs and a Chandigarh flagship next, Organic Bistro’s journey seems to be just warming up  serving taste with thought and comfort without clutter.

Location: 38, Khan Market, Rabindra Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003

Timings: 11AM - 11PM 


Celebrate Friendship Day with Flavours of Asia at Sampan, Novotel Juhu

Celebrate Friendship Day with Flavours of Asia at Sampan, Novotel Juhu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

This Friendship Day, from comforting classics to contemporary innovations, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach invites you to indulge in an immersive dining experience perfect for reconnecting with friends over great food and a stunning sea view.

Sampan, the iconic Indo-Chinese fine dining restaurant at the hotel, now offers an elevated Pan-Asian experience with its bold and indulgent new menu. Paying tribute to East Asia’s rich culinary heritage, the refreshed menu excites the senses while preserving the nostalgic charm that has made Sampan a long-time favourite. With this modern twist, Sampan sets the stage for a memorable Friendship Day celebration.

From the fiery zest of Korean dishes and the soul-soothing warmth of Thai curries to the refined subtlety of Japanese cuisine and the bold spices of Sichuan flavours, Sampan 2.0 offers a journey through Asia on a plate. Signature dishes include Lemon & Coriander Soup, Wonton Soup, Prawns Egg Drop Soup, Yasai Tempura, Dragon Roll, Spicy Veg Miso Ramen, Spicy Scallop & Mushroom, Furikake Seasoning Corn Ribs, Crispy Duck Pancakes, Stir-fry Okra, Edamame, and Roast Lamb in a choice of sauces, each packed with authentic flavours.

The ambiance perfectly blends tradition and modernity, with live cooking stations and interactive counters that bring Asian street-style indulgence to life. Guests can enjoy watching the sizzle of teppanyaki, the finesse of hand-rolled sushi, and the warmth of umami-rich broths, all made fresh and served with flair. While mains are served at the table, the dynamic live counters add a multisensory dimension to the dining experience.

Whether you're craving comforting favourites or eager to explore bold new flavours, Sampan 2.0 offers a soulful dining experience that makes Friendship Day truly special. Surrounded by laughter, flavours, and friends, there's no better way to celebrate the bonds that matter most.

Details:
Location:
Sampan, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, Balraj Sahni Rd, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049

Time:

• Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM

• Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

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