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.


The Orchid Chandigarh Celebrates Rakshabandhan with South Indian Festive Feast

The Orchid Chandigarh Celebrates Rakshabandhan with South Indian Festive Feast

By Hariharan U

Published on August 23, 2026

The Orchid Chandigarh is inviting guests to celebrate Rakshabandhan with an authentic South Indian festive dining experience at South of Vindhyas on August 28, bringing together regional flavours, family traditions and warm hospitality.

The specially curated experience is designed for families looking to mark the occasion over a festive meal, with a menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of South India.

Guests can choose between thoughtfully curated vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, featuring classic South Indian delicacies prepared using authentic recipes and time-honoured cooking techniques. The menus are designed to offer a wholesome dining experience while showcasing the distinctive flavours of the region.

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Whether celebrating the bond between siblings, gathering with family or simply enjoying a festive meal, the Rakshabandhan offering at South of Vindhyas provides an opportunity to mark the occasion through food and togetherness.

The experience reflects the restaurant’s focus on bringing authentic regional cuisine to Chandigarh while creating memorable occasions for guests. With traditional flavours and the hospitality associated with The Orchid Chandigarh, the festive meal aims to make Rakshabandhan a special culinary celebration.

Event Details:

What: Rakshabandhan Festive Meal
Venue: South of Vindhyas, The Orchid Chandigarh
Date: August 28, 2026
Contact: +91 9056784618 / +91 9056784619 / +91 9056784617


Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Brings Chinese Hot-Pot Experience This August

Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Brings Chinese Hot-Pot Experience This August

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2026

This August, Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is bringing a warm and comforting Chinese dining experience to the city with Hot-Pot: The Comfort of Togetherness, running from 17–30 August.

The experience offers guests a choice of three broths, Sichuan, Asian Mushroom and Tomato Stock. These can be paired with a selection of vegetables, meats, seafood and noodles, giving diners the option to build a hot-pot meal to their liking.

Designed for sharing, the experience is well suited for Mumbai's monsoon season and offers a relaxed way to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

With its focus on warm broths, fresh ingredients and a shared dining format, Hot-Pot: The Comfort of Togetherness adds a seasonal option to Mumbai's August dining scene


Harajuku Bakehouse Brings Sweet Japanese Inspired Treats for Rakhi

Harajuku Bakehouse Brings Sweet Japanese Inspired Treats for Rakhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2026

Rakhi gifting gets a sweeter and more playful touch this year with Harajuku Bakehouse at BKC, offering Japanese-inspired desserts that make for a fun surprise for siblings with a sweet tooth.

Known for its kawaii Japanese-inspired look, colourful bakes and picture-perfect treats, Harajuku Bakehouse brings together desserts that can be enjoyed as gifts or shared during a sibling outing.

For those looking to try something different, the menu features Bento Cakes in chocolate, vanilla and rainbow flavours, along with the soft and jiggly Japanese Cotton Cheesecake and the eye-catching Mt. Fuji Tiramisu.

Smaller treats are also available, including Nutella Dorayaki and Japanese Nama Chocolate Fudge Brownies, offering easy gifting options for siblings who enjoy trying new desserts.

The experience goes beyond desserts, with Harajuku Bakehouse also offering a selection of matcha, hojicha and boba drinks. Guests can choose from Iced Strawberry Matcha, Hojicha Lattes, Tiger Brown Sugar Milk Tea and Iced Boba Matcha, making it easy to turn a Rakhi dessert stop into a complete sibling date.

With its colourful setting and playful presentation, Harajuku Bakehouse offers a different take on Rakhi gifting. Whether it is a cute cake to share or a selection of desserts and drinks to explore together, the Bakehouse gives siblings another reason to spend time together this Rakhi.

This Rakhi, instead of going with the usual mithai or chocolates, siblings can explore Harajuku Bakehouse’s Japanese-inspired desserts and add something new and sweet to the celebrations.

Rakhi Gifting Details:

  • What: Rakshabandhan Dessert Gifting from Harajuku Bakehouse
  • Where: Harajuku Bakehouse, BKC, Mumbai
  • When: Available now | 10 AM - 10 PM.

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