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.


Tropika Brewing Co. Unveils Special Valentine’s Menu Crafted for Romantic Celebrations

Tropika Brewing Co. Unveils Special Valentine’s Menu Crafted for Romantic Celebrations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, Tropika Brewing Co. invites couples to celebrate love at an unhurried pace, surrounded by lush greenery, soft lighting, and a tropical-inspired ambience designed for meaningful moments. From 8th to 15th February, the brewery transforms into a romantic escape where shared conversations, laughter, and intimate experiences take centre stage.

Enhancing the celebration is a specially curated Valentine’s cocktail menu crafted to evoke warmth, playfulness, and passion. Signature creations include Love in Dark, a bold combination of whiskey, red guava, and a hint of chilli, and Hot Embrace, where smooth fruit notes blend seamlessly with gentle spice. For lighter, refreshing choices, Night Berry Kiss brings together jamun, summer berries, gin, and sparkling wine, while Oddly in Love combines floral vodka with rose syrup, bubbles, and petals for a delicate, romantic finish. Completing the cocktail lineup is Chill My Heart, a tropical mix of rum, guava, rose, and lime that reflects Tropika’s signature island-inspired character.

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The Valentine’s food menu complements the beverage experience with indulgent and thoughtfully crafted dishes. Guests can begin with refreshing salads such as the Pink Love Salad featuring roasted beetroot, feta, and pecans, or the playful Meat Me Chickri with grilled chicken, strawberries, and citrus. Starters include Hearty Italian Bruschetta, Chicken Tikka & Strawberry Salsa Bruschetta, and a classic Prawn Cocktail.

Mains continue the romantic narrative with comforting and flavour-forward options like Screaming Heart beetroot makhani served with vegetable pulao, Pasta Rossa tossed in a rosé wine-infused tomato sauce, and Roasted Chicken with Plum Chilli. The experience concludes on a sweet note with desserts such as Red Velvet Romance with Rose Mousse, Double Heart Valentine Cupcakes, Hugs in Mugs with chocolate and berries, and the charming Little Hearts Chocolate Cake.

With its tropical setting, curated cocktails, and indulgent Valentine’s menu, Tropika Brewing Co. offers couples a memorable dining experience where every sip, bite, and shared moment becomes part of their love story.

Fact Sheet

  • Venue: Tropika Brewing Co., Marathahalli, Bengaluru
    37/1, Outer Ring Road, Panathur, Marathahalli, Bengaluru – 560103

  • Special Menu: Curated Valentine’s Day menu with salads, starters, mains, and desserts

  • Date: 8th Feb till 15th Feb

  • Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM


KEFI Opens in Versova as an All-Day Café Focused on Comfort and Craft

KEFI Opens in Versova as an All-Day Café Focused on Comfort and Craft

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2026

KEFI has opened in Versova, Andheri, bringing a thoughtfully designed all-day café experience to one of Mumbai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Conceptualised as a modern third space, the café offers comfort-driven food, elevated beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down, connect, and return often.

The name KEFI is derived from the Greek word kefi, meaning joy, passion, and the spirit of living in the moment. This philosophy lies at the core of the brand and is reflected across its food, space, and overall guest experience. Sharing the brand’s vision, Monica Kapoor, Co-Founder and Creative Director, said, "KEFI is about creating joy through food, space, and shared moments , a place people naturally return to."

Adding to this, Aatif Khan, Co-Founder and Director of Business Strategy, said, "For me, KEFI is about building a brand that lasts , one that grows thoughtfully, scales responsibly, and retains its soul at every stage."

Designed as a seamless all-day dining destination, KEFI transitions effortlessly from early morning breakfasts and quick coffee stops to work meetings, relaxed lunches, and comforting dinners. The menu focuses on modern café cuisine with global influences, offering flavour-forward dishes that balance familiarity with finesse. Key highlights include Khan's Keema Pao, Chef's Shakshuka, the KEFI Grilled Steak, Desi Chicken Curry, and the indulgent Dark Desire Cake. The culinary direction is led by Monica Kapoor, with a focus on elevating familiar favourites while retaining their comforting essence.

The beverage menu complements the food offering with a mix of nostalgic classics and contemporary creations. Signature drinks include the Retro Classic Cold Coffee, Bloody Matcha, Flirty Rose Iced Tea, Sweet Kiss, and the Golden Glow Smoothie, designed to suit KEFI’s relaxed, all-day rhythm.

The interiors are co-curated by the founders and reflect a shared preference for airy layouts, calming tones, and natural light. Minimal yet warm, the space features elemental textures and an open design that invites guests to linger.

With its soulful philosophy, comfort-led menu, and thoughtfully curated space, KEFI is poised to become a neighbourhood favourite in Versova, offering a café experience where joy is felt not just through food, but in every moment spent within.

Address: KEFI Eatery and Cafe, Inlaks Nagar, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400061

Operational Timing: 8 am to 1 pm


Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park invite couples to celebrate love with thoughtfully curated dining experiences, romantic settings, and indulgent sweet treats. Spanning the Valentine’s weekend, the hotels promise memorable moments through chef-driven menus, elegant décor, and intimate dining options designed to make the occasion truly special.

At Neo Kitchen, the all-day dining restaurant, guests can enjoy a series of specially curated Valentine’s Day offerings. The celebrations begin with a Valentine’s Day breakfast featuring interactive food counters, offering a fun and engaging start to the day for couples.

The highlight of the experience is the intimate Valentine’s Day dinner at Neo Kitchen, where guests can indulge in a lavish multi-cuisine buffet crafted by the culinary team. The evening is enhanced with soulful music, engaging moments, and a charming selfie booth, allowing couples to capture lasting memories in a romantic setting.

The Valentine’s Day breakfast and dinner at Neo Kitchen will take place on 14th February. Breakfast is available at a reasonable price, while the dinneris specially curated for couples with  indoor seating and under-the-sky dining experience, which includes a bottle of sparkling wine.

For couples seeking a more exclusive and intimate celebration, Neer, the poolside restaurant, offers a romantic five-course set menu curated by the chefs. The experience includes a bottle of sparkling wine, personalized thank-you cards, and a dedicated Valentine’s Day photo booth, creating a refined and elegant atmosphere under the stars. The poolside dining experience at Neer will be available on 14th February from 7 pm onwards.

Adding a sweet touch to the season of love, Techtonic introduces a special range of Valentine’s Day pastries and cakes, available from 6th February 2026. The pâtisserie also presents thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Day hampers featuring a selection of gourmet treats, making them ideal for gifting and sharing with loved ones.

With its blend of romantic dining, elegant experiences, and indulgent treats, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park offer couples the perfect setting to celebrate love and create unforgettable Valentine’s Day memories.

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