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.


Air India Unveils a Refreshed Beverage Collection Featuring Celebrated Wines and Spirits from Across the World

Air India Unveils a Refreshed Beverage Collection Featuring Celebrated Wines and Spirits from Across the World

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 25, 2026

Air India, India’s leading global airline, has unveiled a refreshed beverage collection for its international routes, bringing together a wide range of celebrated wines and spirits from across the world. Curated to enhance the inflight experience, the new selection is designed to offer depth, variety, and thoughtful pairing at 35,000 feet.

The updated collection balances classic wines, new-world labels, and rare, aged spirits to suit the preferences of today’s global traveller. A key highlight of this refresh is the introduction of the ‘Regional Wine Programme’, which presents wine selections tailored to key international routes in Business and Premium Economy. To support this initiative, cabin crew have received specialised training to guide guests with personalised beverage recommendations during their journey.

In a category-first for Indian aviation, Air India has introduced tequila as part of its inflight offering, serving 1800 Reserva Añejo from Mexico in First and Business Class. The spirits portfolio also features India’s Rampur Double Cask single malt, reflecting the airline’s focus on showcasing Indian craftsmanship alongside international labels.

In First Class, the beverage experience is centred on exclusivity and heritage. Guests can enjoy a selection of ultra-premium labels, including Aberfeldy 21 YO Single Malt from Scotland, Hennessy VSOP Cognac, Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blancs Champagne, Pian della Vigne Brunello di Montalcino by Marchesi Antinori from Italy, and Classic Burgundy Chardonnay. These selections are reserved exclusively for the flagship cabin and are supported by an extended premium portfolio.

Business Class guests are offered an elevated wine and spirits programme with a global focus. The selection includes Roku Gin from Japan, Charles Heidsieck Brut Champagne, Bottega Gold Prosecco, Albert Bichot Moulin-à-Vent, Château Teyssier Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, and Birra Moretti beer from Italy, among other international labels.

Premium Economy sees a notable enhancement with the introduction of Prosecco. For the first time, guests in this cabin will be welcomed with a glass of Villa Sandi Il Fresco Prosecco shortly after take-off, adding a celebratory element to the experience.

In Economy Class, guests can choose from a thoughtfully curated range that includes classic Bordeaux white and red wines, Dewar’s Blended Scotch, Bombay Sapphire Gin from England, Absolut Vodka from Sweden, Caribbean Rum, Heineken beer from the Netherlands, and India’s Kingfisher Ultra lager.

Commenting on the refreshed offering, Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India, said, “The thoughtfully curated beverage portfolio brings together some of the finest wines and spirits to appeal to global travellers as Air India continues its focus on driving service excellence and customer-centricity. Paired with the newly revamped international menu, the newly curated beverage menu seeks to provide guests with a dining journey crafted with care and passion, elevating the overall inflight experience.”

To complement the beverage selection, Air India has introduced a new food and wine pairing menu. Each pairing has been selected for balance and harmony across cuisines. Highlights include a Napa Valley Chardonnay paired with Chicken Roulade layered with goat cheese and caramelised onion, and a German Riesling matched with Seoul flamed prawns. A selection of red wines, including Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, and Sangiovese, is paired with dishes such as Indian Nawabi Paneer, Gucchi Kofta, Murgh Musallam, and Chicken Bolognese Lasagne.

The refreshed beverage collection forms part of Air India’s ongoing transformation journey. Alongside the induction of the Boeing 787-9 and the launch of a revamped international menu, the new beverage programme reflects the airline’s continued focus on improving service standards and enhancing the overall customer experience. The newly curated beverage menu is only available on flights to and from international destinations.


Naked & Famous Opens in Bengaluru

Naked & Famous Opens in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 25, 2026

Cocktail culture in India has grown confident, but it has also settled into familiar patterns. Most guests walk into a bar knowing exactly what they want, whether it is a Margarita ordered a certain way or a Negroni that tastes just like the last one. Naked & Famous was created to gently shift that comfort zone, offering a new way to approach familiar drink styles without asking guests to give up what they already love.

Named after the modern classic cocktail built on equal measures of ingredients, Naked & Famous takes a clear stance. Drinks should be understood by how they are made, not by trends or labels. The bar is structured around four expressions of drinking, Built, Stirred, Shaken, and Neat, allowing technique to become the language through which flavour is explored.

Behind Naked & Famous are two distinct yet complementary visions. Karthik Kumar, Co-Founder & Beverage Director, brings deep industry experience and a long-held belief that the bar setup itself can be the star. Priyesh Busetty, Co-Founder, adds a food-focused and well-travelled perspective, grounding the experience in how people eat, drink, and return. His journey into the F&B world began in 2017 with Brooks & Bonds, followed by the launch of five outlets of Yuki, his food-led venture.

At the heart of the space sits India’s first octagonal bar. Designed as a working structure rather than a visual statement, the eight-sided counter is divided into four stations, each organised by technique instead of spirit. Two seats sit between every station, placing guests alongside the bartender and encouraging conversation rather than distance.

As guests move around the bar, the logic becomes clear. The way a drink is built, stirred, or shaken directly shapes how it tastes and feels. The Built station focuses on tall, effervescent highballs assembled in the glass, bright, easy, and approachable. The Stirred station leans into slower, spirit-forward cocktails where balance and dilution quietly lead. The Shaken station brings energy through aeration, citrus, and texture. The Neat station strips things back completely, serving spirits without intervention and letting purity speak for itself.

Within this framework, familiar spirits reveal new sides. Curtain Raiser pairs Campari aperitivo with Amalfi lemon and bubbles, while Little Mermaid offers a clean Tanqueray No. Ten serve shaped by cucumber and vermouth.

Throughout the experience, bartenders stand with the guest rather than performing across the bar. Karthik Kumar says, "Guests are free to ask questions, explore the menu, or return to what they already love. And, most importantly, classics are never discouraged; they are only respected."

The food menu follows the same thoughtful approach, blending global flavours with a modern touch. Dishes range from Truffle & Cheese Popcorn and Crab and Lychee Wonton Cups to comforting Mushroom Risotto and the bolder Ground Chicken Mapo Tofu. Desserts like the Chocolate Mandarin Orange Cake offer a sweet finish. The menu is designed for sharing and easy enjoyment.

The octagonal bar remains the visual and emotional centre of the room. Priyesh Busetty says, "The interiors echo the same clarity as the drinks, muted tones, deep blues, and a calm, considered palette that allows the bar to lead. Subtle details reveal themselves slowly: an offbeat chandelier, rustic textures, and a quiet, subtle cat theme (reflecting our love for cats) that adds warmth and character."

As the evening comes to a close, Naked & Famous adds a thoughtful final touch. Guests are offered a small takeaway cup of chicken or mushroom soup, ensuring no one leaves too hungry or too boozy, and the night ends on a gentle note.

Address: Second Floor, 4, 100 Feet Rd, KHB Block Koramangala, 5th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560095.


JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Introduces ‘Matcha Moments’ at Autm

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Introduces ‘Matcha Moments’ at Autm

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

In a city that is always on the move, Autm at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is bringing a refreshing pause with the launch of Matcha Moments, starting 21st January 2026. The new experience invites guests to slow down, reset, and enjoy a sense of calm through carefully prepared matcha-based beverages.

Blending age-old tradition with modern tastes, Matcha Moments goes beyond being just a trend. The menu highlights matcha’s natural energy boost, antioxidant benefits, and its distinctive umami flavour. Guests can choose from hand-whisked ceremonial Matcha Tea, creamy Matcha Lattes, and cooling iced options. Signature creations include the Strawberry Iced Matcha Latte, Coconut Matcha Cloud, and the zesty Matcha Yuzu Spritz, each designed to offer a balance of taste, ritual, and refreshment.

Available throughout the day at Autm, Matcha Moments presents a thoughtfully curated menu that brings together tradition and contemporary flavours. Positioned as both a mindful treat and an everyday essential, the experience reflects a modern approach to wellness-led dining in Mumbai.

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