SŌZŌ Blends Tradition and Innovation in Mumbai’s First Self-Ordering Izakaya

SŌZŌ Blends Tradition and Innovation in Mumbai’s First Self-Ordering Izakaya

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 24, 2024

SŌZŌ, a trailblazer in Japanese culinary innovation, has introduced Mumbai’s first self-ordering izakaya dining experience with the opening of its flagship restaurant in Versova. This new concept blends the traditional flavors of Japanese izakaya cuisine with the convenience of modern self-service, offering a unique dining experience for patrons.

The restaurant is led by Head Chef Parvez Khan, who brings his expertise from working at renowned establishments like Wasabi by Morimoto, and Sameer Tirani, a visionary investor in the hospitality sector. Together, they have crafted a diverse menu that highlights "express-comfort izakaya" dishes. The offerings include a variety of Japanese comfort foods, such as the juicy SOZO BAO-GER, flavorful DONBURI bowls, warm RAMEN, and classic GYOZA, all made with high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Japan. These dishes are served quickly through an easy-to-use, self-ordering system.

SŌZŌ’s interior is designed to reflect the cozy, inviting atmosphere of a traditional Japanese home, fused with modern elements. The 1200 sq. ft space features traditional Japanese Noren banners, natural wood moldings, and a shoji-inspired ceiling, creating an intimate dining setting. A striking glossy red wall with a large glass window offers diners a view of the culinary team at work, while a serene Zen garden provides a peaceful retreat within the restaurant.

Beyond the food, SŌZŌ offers a carefully curated selection of beverages, including in-house drinks, frappes with boba, and Kombucha, all designed to complement the rich flavors of the menu.

Chef Parvez Khan expressed the vision behind SŌZŌ, stating, "We aim to revolutionize Japanese dining by merging the convenience of self-ordering with the immersive experience of a traditional izakaya." Partner Sameer Tirani added, "Our goal is to create a seamless, authentic, and value-driven dining experience that stands out by integrating traditional Japanese culinary art with modern service efficiencies."

SŌZŌ is open daily from 12 pm to 11 pm, offering both quick lunches and indulgent dinners in a setting that celebrates Japanese culture and culinary excellence.


Monkey Bar Brings Back Childhood Memories with Limited Edition Back to School Menu

Monkey Bar Brings Back Childhood Memories with Limited Edition Back to School Menu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

Monkey Bar is inviting guests to take a trip down memory lane with the launch of its limited-edition Back to School menu in Bengaluru. Available until 30th June, the special offering brings together nostalgic street-side snacks and classic cocktails, celebrating the flavours and memories that many grew up with.

Created around the idea of revisiting simpler times, the menu has been curated by Monkey Bar founders Nikhil and Tushar along with Chef Clyde. Inspired by school-day memories, neighbourhood hangouts, and after-school treats, the experience is designed to recreate the comfort and joy of familiar favourites.

The food menu highlights some of India's most loved street-side snacks. Guests can enjoy cucumber slices topped with chaat masala and lime, raw mango seasoned with chilli and black salt, whole guava prepared with traditional street-style spices, and Kolkata's famous Jhalmuri mixed with vegetables, peanuts, mustard oil, and bold local flavours. These simple yet flavourful snacks bring back memories of carefree afternoons and conversations with friends.

Complementing the food selection is a cocktail menu dedicated to timeless classics that have remained popular across generations. The line-up includes favourites such as the Manhattan, Mojito, Gimlet, Clover Club, Piña Colada, Caipiroska, Tequila Sunrise, Blue Lagoon, and several other well-loved cocktails. Served in their classic form, the drinks celebrate the enduring appeal of traditional cocktail culture.

With its signature laid-back atmosphere, Monkey Bar combines nostalgic flavours and iconic drinks to create an experience centred around memories, friendships, and shared moments. Whether it's reconnecting with old friends or revisiting favourite rituals, the Back to School menu offers guests a chance to relive the spirit of the good old days.

  • Venue: Monkey Bar, Museum Road, Bengaluru
  • Date: 30th June
  • Timings: 12 PM to 1 AM


Chinese Wok Enters 50th City with Belagavi Launch, Strengthens South India Presence

Chinese Wok Enters 50th City with Belagavi Launch, Strengthens South India Presence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

Chinese Wok, the popular Desi Chinese QSR brand from Lenexis Foodworks, has achieved a major milestone in its growth journey with its entry into the 50th city across India. The brand has marked the occasion with the launch of its first outlet in Belagavi (Belgaum), further expanding its footprint in South India to 89 stores.

With this addition, Chinese Wok has strengthened its presence in Karnataka, where it now operates 38 outlets. The expansion highlights the state's importance in the company's cluster-led growth strategy and reflects its continued focus on building a strong presence across key regional markets.

Over the years, Chinese Wok has evolved from operating in a single city to becoming a national QSR brand with a presence across 50 cities. The company has played an important role in shaping and organising India's growing Desi Chinese dining segment. Belagavi, one of North Karnataka's rapidly developing Tier-II cities, presents a promising opportunity due to its expanding young population, rising demand for organised dining options and growing preference for affordable and flavourful food experiences.

Commenting on the milestone, Arvind R P, Chief Executive Officer, Lenexis Foodworks, said, "Our entry into the 50th city is an important milestone in Chinese Wok's growth journey and reflects the increasing consumer acceptance of the Desi Chinese category across India. Over the years, we have focused on building a scalable and disciplined expansion model that combines strong unit economics with a consistent consumer experience. Belagavi is a natural addition to our network as we continue strengthening our presence across Karnataka and South India. Looking ahead, our focus remains on accelerating growth across emerging markets while building deeper category leadership through accessibility, affordability and innovation."

South India remains one of the brand's key growth regions, supported by a strong urban customer base, an active dining-out culture and increasing demand for organised QSR experiences. With 89 outlets across the region, Chinese Wok continues to focus on sustainable expansion through its cluster-led strategy.

The new Belagavi outlet has been developed in a high-street format, catering to both dine-in and takeaway customers. Guests can enjoy the brand's signature Desi Chinese menu, including Value Woks, Hakka Noodles, Kurkure Momos, Cheese and Schezwan Fries, along with a range of meal combos designed for families and groups.

As the brand continues its expansion across the country, the launch in Belagavi and its entry into the 50th city mark another important step in Chinese Wok's vision of creating one of India's most accessible and culturally relevant Desi Chinese QSR platforms.


Father’s Day 2026: Serious Slice Declares “The First Slice is His”

Father’s Day 2026: Serious Slice Declares “The First Slice is His”

By Author

Published on June 19, 2026

This Father’s Day, Serious Slice is rewriting the rules of the family table with a simple idea “The First Slice is His.” The Bengaluru-based pizza destination is turning Father’s Day 2026 into a warm, relaxed, and slightly playful celebration that places dads right at the centre of the dining experience.

Across its Cunningham Road and RR Nagar outlets, the restaurant is moving away from formal set menus and instead focusing on comfort, familiarity, and a sense of easy celebration. The idea is straightforward: give fathers a day where they are not just present at the table, but properly celebrated.

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From the moment guests arrive, the experience is designed to feel personal. Tables will feature “Reserved for Dad” placards, along with handwritten-style notes that add a simple, human touch to the celebration. Live acoustic music from local artists sets a relaxed mood, making the space feel more like a neighbourhood gathering than a curated event.

The highlight of the celebration is the “First Slice” House Rule. As part of this playful initiative, the first pizza slice loaded generously with toppings is served directly to the father at the table before anyone else. It’s a small but symbolic gesture that flips the usual dining hierarchy and ensures dads get the first bite of the meal they usually help organise.

The menu itself stays true to Serious Slice’s signature approach, fresh, indulgent, and unpretentious. Guests can expect a casual dining experience built around sharing, laughter, and comfort food that brings families together without overcomplication.

With its mix of humour, warmth, and thoughtful detail, Serious Slice’s Father’s Day celebration focuses less on extravagance and more on appreciation. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest gestures, a slice served first, a note of thanks, or a shared laugh can make the biggest impact.

For reservations, guests can contact +91 99009 41336.

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