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.


Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Brings Picnic Charm to Sunday Brunch

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Brings Picnic Charm to Sunday Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2026

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach is bringing the charm of leisurely outdoor picnics to its Sunday brunch at The Square. Inspired by the joy of relaxed gatherings, the experience combines familiar picnic favourites with interactive culinary stations in a family-friendly setting overlooking the Arabian Sea.

The specially curated spread features picnic baskets filled with sandwich rolls and fresh fruit skewers, alongside barbecue grills, sliders and flatbread stations. A refreshing lemonade station adds to the outdoor-inspired theme, while dessert offerings such as classic brownies, a chocolate fountain and DIY s’mores bring a playful touch to the afternoon.

Interactive live stations allow guests to explore freshly prepared dishes, adding variety to the brunch experience. Beyond the food, live singing and engaging activities for children create an inviting atmosphere for families and friends looking to spend their Sunday together.

Located at The Square, the brunch combines contemporary interiors, natural light and alfresco dining with views of the Arabian Sea. Pool access further complements the experience, offering guests an opportunity to unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the coast.

Designed around the nostalgia of traditional picnics, the Sunday brunch brings together food, entertainment and family activities in one setting.

Brunch Details:

  • Venue: The Square, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach

  • When: Every Sunday

  • Timings: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM

  • Highlights: Interactive live stations, live singing, children's activities and pool access.


McDonald's India North and East Introduces ₹99 No Onion, No Garlic McAloo Tikki Meal for Navratri

McDonald's India North and East Introduces ₹99 No Onion, No Garlic McAloo Tikki Meal for Navratri

By Hariharan U

Published on October 18, 2026

McDonald's India – North and East has introduced a special No Onion, No Garlic McAloo Tikki Value Meal for ₹99 during Navratri 2026, offering customers a festive dining option that aligns with traditional food preferences.

Available for a limited period from October 11 to 19, 2026, the offering features the brand's popular McAloo Tikki Value Meal prepared without onion and garlic. The initiative brings together familiar menu favourites and an accessible price point for customers observing Navratri.

The festive offering reflects McDonald's approach to adapting its menu to regional traditions and seasonal food preferences. By introducing a special preparation of one of its established vegetarian products, the brand aims to provide customers with an additional option during the festival.

McDonald's India – North and East also highlights its food-handling practices, which include separate handling procedures for vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, with segregation across kitchen stations and storage areas.

The company operates fully vegetarian restaurants in Amritsar, near the Golden Temple, and in Kurukshetra. These outlets serve entirely vegetarian menus in consideration of local traditions and community preferences.

Customers can access the No Onion, No Garlic McAloo Tikki Value Meal through multiple ordering channels, including dine-in, takeaway and drive-thru services. The offer is also available through the McDonald's app and food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato, subject to availability at participating outlets.

The offering is part of the brand's seasonal approach to menu planning, with festive options designed to accommodate different dining preferences while retaining familiar products and value-led pricing.

About McDonald's India – North and East

McDonald's restaurants across North and East India are operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. The company serves a range of menu options made with quality ingredients, with operations spanning standalone restaurants, drive-thru outlets and 24-hour restaurants.

According to the company, its network comprises 316 restaurants and 200 McCafé outlets across North and East India, serving millions of customers annually and providing direct employment to more than 6,500 people.


Chinese Wok Launches ₹99 Value Woks with 'Wokday Treat' Campaign

Chinese Wok Launches ₹99 Value Woks with 'Wokday Treat' Campaign

By Hariharan U

Published on October 18, 2026

Chinese Wok has introduced its new Value Woks platform, offering select Desi-Chinese favourites at ₹99 and positioning everyday meals as an opportunity for an affordable treat. The launch is supported by the 'Chinese Wok's Wokday Treat' campaign, conceptualised and executed in collaboration with Havas Creative India.

The new offering targets young professionals, officegoers and urban consumers looking for quick, filling and flavourful meals without spending more on everyday dining occasions. The platform centres on two familiar favourites: Veg Hakka Noodles and Veg Chowmein, with availability varying by region.

The campaign draws on the familiar weekday lunch break, presenting it as a small moment of enjoyment amid busy work schedules. The campaign film features freshly wok-fired noodles and Value Wok boxes being served, culminating in the 'Wokday Treat' mnemonic, which connects the everyday workday with an accessible meal experience.

Speaking about the launch, Arvind R P, CEO, Lenexis FoodWorks Pvt Ltd, said, "Desi Chinese is India's favourite comfort food: filling, full of flavour and deeply familiar. With the launch of new ₹99 value platform, we're putting our classics like Hakka Noodles and Chowmein within everyone's reach and inviting more of India to dine-in at Chinese Wok, not just at their homes. This new value platform, brought to life by Havas Creative India, is a key building block of how we're building Chinese Wok into a truly omni-channel brand as we expand across the country."

Anupama Ramaswamy, Managing Director and Chief Creative Officer, Havas Creative India, said the campaign was built around the insight that weekdays can feel repetitive and lunch often becomes a small break to look forward to. She added that the ₹99 Value Wok aims to make an everyday meal feel like a treat without requiring a special occasion.

The Value Woks are available at ₹99 at participating Chinese Wok restaurants through dine-in and takeaway, subject to availability. Veg Hakka Noodles are offered in select regions, while Veg Chowmein is available in others.

The campaign is also being promoted through outdoor communications across malls, food courts and key locations near high-street catchments, extending the offer's visibility among everyday diners.

Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok is the flagship brand of Lenexis FoodWorks and operates more than 270 outlets across over 50 cities in India. The company also operates The Momo Co. and Big Bowl, serving consumers across different quick-service dining formats.

With its new Value Woks platform, Chinese Wok is looking to strengthen its everyday dining proposition by combining familiar flavours, accessible pricing and a campaign designed around the weekday meal occasion.

Campaign Films

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