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.


Sora by The Nines Redefines Vegetarian Dining in Mumbai with Imagination and Spirit

Sora by The Nines Redefines Vegetarian Dining in Mumbai with Imagination and Spirit

By Hariharan U

Published on November 4, 2025

A new chapter in Mumbai’s dining scene unfolds with the launch of Sora by The Nines, an elegant vegetarian restaurant and bar in Kandivali that reimagines plant-based dining through creativity, warmth, and modern charm.

Taking its name from the Japanese word for sky, Sora represents freedom, openness, and imagination, qualities that define every part of the experience. Conceived by the team behind The Nines, Sora blends the artistry of modern vegetarian cuisine with the easygoing sophistication of contemporary bar culture. Every plate, cocktail, and detail celebrates the joy of coming together over good food and great company.

Sora was born from the success of The Nines and the desire to connect with a younger, dynamic audience that values both experience and flavour. The restaurant challenges the idea that vegetarian food is traditional or predictable, presenting it instead as indulgent, bold, and full of creative expression.

At the helm of this vision is Chef Khushal, known for his mastery of regional South Indian flavours at Devengere Benne. At Sora, he brings a balance of authenticity and innovation. “At Sora, we've built a menu that celebrates flavour, texture, and balance, drawing inspiration from around the world but rooted in Indian sensibilities,” says Chef Khushal.

The menu reflects this approach beautifully, offering comforting yet inventive dishes such as Chimichurri Paneer, Mock Meat Chilly, Khow Suey, and the indulgent Broccoli Corn Cheese. For dessert, the dramatic Pull Me Up Tiramisu makes for a sweet finale — rich, layered, and designed to impress.

Sora’s cocktail program mirrors its name light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant. Highlights include the floral Purple Mist with vodka and lavender syrup, the citrusy Elder Blush with gin and elderflower, and the tropical Caribbean Bloom made with Old Monk white rum, blueberry, and apple. The Coriander Leaf brings a zesty twist with tequila and yuzu, while Pink Amber offers a whisky-based citrus blend. Each drink feels like a nod to the sky balanced, bright, and beautifully crafted.

Spanning 2,800 sq. ft., Sora’s interiors are a visual and sensory tribute to the sky. Soft neutrals, light blues, and earthy tones create a soothing yet stylish atmosphere. Curved furniture, diffused lighting, and natural textures give the space a flow that transitions seamlessly from day to night. The result is a calm, welcoming space where every detail enhances the dining experience.

Behind the concept stands Mahesh Shetty, the hospitality mind behind Times Square, Namaskar, The Nines Juhu, Maharaj, and Devengere Benne. “My favorite part of starting a restaurant is watching an idea turn into an experience that people connect with. Each concept has its own story, but the goal is always to make guests feel at home,” shares Shetty.

Through Sora, Shetty and his team continue their legacy of blending warmth, consistency, and creativity, offering a dining experience that’s grounded in authenticity yet open to exploration.

Restaurant Details:


Dakshin Returns in a New Avtaar at Sheraton New Delhi

Dakshin Returns in a New Avtaar at Sheraton New Delhi

By Hariharan U

Published on November 4, 2025

The legendary Dakshin at Sheraton New Delhi has reopened its doors in a refreshed new avtaar, welcoming guests to rediscover the soul of South Indian dining in an elegant, reimagined space.

Rooted in the region’s timeless charm yet designed for today’s refined palate, the renewed Dakshin brings together heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary elegance. The interiors evoke a sense of southern grandeur with handcrafted wooden accents, carved pillars, gold-toned details, ornate furniture, and Kanjivaram-inspired motifs, creating an atmosphere that feels both classic and current.

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Celebrating over 35 years of culinary heritage, Dakshin has long stood as a symbol of regional authenticity within the ITC Hotels portfolio. From Mumbai and Hyderabad to Visakhapatnam and New Delhi, each outpost carries forward the same hallmark of culture, craft, and culinary mastery that defines the brand.

Dakshin has been an integral part of Sheraton New Delhi’s culinary identity for decades. The refreshed Dakshin is a tribute to South India’s rich heritage, where every detail, from design to flavour, tells a story of craftsmanship and culture. We are delighted to welcome our guests to rediscover this beloved restaurant,” said Amit Kumar, Area General Manager Welcomhotels (North) & General Manager, Sheraton New Delhi.

The renewed menu is a sensory exploration of the southern states, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Pondicherry, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, where every dish carries a trace of tradition and a touch of innovation.

Highlights include Tomato Pappu, an Andhra-style lentil delicacy; Kori Gassi, a coconut-based chicken curry from Mangalore; Venchina Mamsam, a rich spiced lamb preparation; and Patchakari Stew, vegetables gently simmered in coconut milk. Each plate represents Dakshin’s philosophy of offering an experience steeped in ritual, regional purity, and personal touch.

Timings:
Lunch: 12:30 PM – 2:45 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:45 PM


‘Time To Sea’ Opens in Mumbai — A Coastal Dining Experience That Celebrates India’s Shoreline Flavours

‘Time To Sea’ Opens in Mumbai — A Coastal Dining Experience That Celebrates India’s Shoreline Flavours

By Hariharan U

Published on November 4, 2025

Mumbai’s dining scene just got a refreshing new wave with the opening of Time To Sea, a vibrant restaurant in Oshiwara, Andheri (West), dedicated to honouring the culinary traditions of India’s western and southern coasts.

More than just another seafood destination, Time To Sea is a heartfelt tribute to India’s coastal heritage,  where food, community, and storytelling come together in one warm, seaside-inspired space.

The menu at Time To Sea is designed as a voyage along India’s shoreline. It begins in the spice-rich kitchens of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, drifts through the coconut groves of Kerala, passes the fiery Mangalorean kitchens, and sails through the festive flavours of Goa before anchoring at Malvan and the Konkan coast.

Each dish reflects the region’s character and charm. The Andhra Paneer Naga Chilli packs a bold southern punch, while flame-grilled Tiger Prawns finished with artisanal butter sauces bring a Goan-Portuguese touch. Diners can also indulge in comforting Malvani curries, traditional Mangalorean sukka, and Kerala-style seafood, creating a spread that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Guided by the philosophy that “food is emotion,” Time To Sea has been crafted to feel warm, inviting, and familiar, like a coastal home. The interiors capture the relaxed rhythm of seaside living, while the kitchen celebrates recipes passed down through generations, using fresh local ingredients and regional spices.

Whether it’s the tang of a coastal curry that brings back monsoon memories or the crisp crunch of a fried catch that feels like a day at the beach, every element at Time To Sea invites diners to slow down, share stories, and savour the flavours of India’s shores.

Timings:
Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM – 12:00 midnight

Location:
Oshiwara, Andheri (West), Mumbai

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