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.


Horizon Brings a New Sunday Brunch to Bengaluru’s Skyline

Horizon Brings a New Sunday Brunch to Bengaluru’s Skyline

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 17, 2026

Bengaluru's skyline is getting a new Sunday dining experience as Horizon, the Pan-Asian rooftop destination at the Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway, introduces its new Skyline Brunch. Starting 16 August 2026, the brunch will take place every Sunday on the hotel's 31st floor, bringing together Pan-Asian flavours, live cooking, music and views of the city.

The culinary team at Horizon has curated a menu featuring a selection of Pan-Asian favourites and chef-led preparations. Adding to the experience, live cooking stations will allow guests to watch dishes being prepared fresh, bringing an interactive element to the brunch. Guests will also receive a welcome pour of premium spirits, while live music sets the mood through the afternoon.

The rooftop setting remains one of the highlights of the experience. With its open-air location and panoramic views of Bengaluru, Horizon offers a relaxed backdrop for guests to enjoy a long Sunday lunch with good food, music and the city spread out below.

The new Skyline Brunch brings together food, drinks, live entertainment and the setting of one of Bengaluru's rooftop dining destinations, creating an easy-going Sunday experience for guests looking to unwind.

Event Details:

  • When: Every Sunday | Starting 16 August 2026
  • Where: Horizon – 31st Floor Rooftop, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway

The experience includes:

  • Welcome pour of premium spirits

  • Chef-curated Pan-Asian menu

  • Live cooking stations

  • Live music

  • Panoramic Bengaluru city views.


McDonald’s India North & East Launches Fans Fries Meal for Fries Lovers

McDonald’s India North & East Launches Fans Fries Meal for Fries Lovers

By Hariharan U

Published on August 17, 2026

McDonald’s India – North & East has introduced the Fans Fries Meal, a limited-time offering created for customers who believe fries deserve more than a supporting role.

Available until August 16, 2026, the Fans Fries Meal features an XXL fries pack along with two Regular Coke Zero beverages, priced at ₹149 exclusively on the McDonald’s App.

The limited-time offering gives fries enthusiasts the option to turn the popular side into a standalone meal, with an oversized portion designed specifically around the brand's fries.

The Fans Fries Meal is available for a limited five-day period at participating McDonald’s restaurants across North and East India.

Customers can access the offer through multiple ordering channels, including dine-in, self-ordering kiosks, takeaway, drive-thru and delivery platforms, in addition to the McDonald’s App.

The launch comes with a playful campaign aimed at customers who consider fries an essential part of every meal, positioning the Fans Fries Meal as a dedicated offering for the brand's fries-focused audience.

With the offer available only until August 16, customers have a short window to opt for the XXL fries experience before the limited-time promotion ends.

Offer Details

Offer: Fans Fries Meal
Includes: XXL Fries + 2 Regular Coke Zero beverages
Price: ₹149
Availability: Until August 16, 2026
Region: McDonald’s India – North & East
Ordering: McDonald’s App, dine-in, SOK, takeaway, drive-thru and delivery platforms


The Filter Coffee Brings a Traditional Two-Day Onam Sadhya to Bengaluru

The Filter Coffee Brings a Traditional Two-Day Onam Sadhya to Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 17, 2026

This Onam, The Filter Coffee is inviting guests to enjoy the traditional flavours of Kerala with a two-day Onam Sadhya on 26th and 27th August 2026 across its Bengaluru outlets.

Served on a traditional banana leaf, the festive feast will feature 32 authentic vegetarian dishes, with a different menu prepared for each day. The spread brings together familiar Kerala favourites and festive delicacies, offering guests a taste of the state's rich culinary traditions.

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On the first day, the Sadhya will feature favourites including Sakkara Varatti, Nendram Upperi, Kalan, Olan, Aviyal, Pulissery, Kerala Matta Rice, Appam with Vegetable Stew, Kerala Parotta with Veg Nadan Curry, and Ada Pradhaman, along with several other traditional preparations.

The second day's menu will bring a refreshed selection to the banana leaf. Guests can enjoy Paruppu Vadai, Pazhampori (SFG), Pineapple Pachadi, Cucumber Pachadi, Kerala Parotta with Veg Nadan Curry, Lemon Rice, Cabbage Thoran, Sena Erissery, Vazhakkai Varuval, Mix Veg Sambar, Tomato Rasam, Thenga Manga Chammanthi, Narangai Pickle, and Ada Pradhaman, alongside other timeless festive favourites.

The two-day celebration is designed around the traditional spirit of Onam, where food, family and togetherness come together around an elaborate Sadhya.

Event Details:

  • Dates: 26th & 27th August 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday)
  • Time Slots: 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM & 3:00 PM
  • Also Available: Takeaway and online ordering on Swiggy & Zomato
  • Venues: Kalyan Nagar, Indiranagar, Brookfield, Koramangala, Sadashiva Nagar, and Jayanagar.

The Onam Sadhya at The Filter Coffee is planned as a warm and nostalgic celebration of Kerala's culinary heritage. Served on a banana leaf and meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, the festive feast brings the traditional flavours of Onam to Bengaluru over two days.

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