The year 2024 has been a sizzling one for new restaurant openings across India, with quite a few exciting spots just making their debut in December – meaning your January dining plans are already sorted! If you're a foodie eager to explore the latest culinary gems in your city, you're in the right place.

We've rounded up the must-visit new restaurants that are sure to spice up your dining adventures. Bon appétit!

1. Banng, Gurugram

​​Chef Garima Arora, the only Indian woman to helm a 2-Michelin-starred restaurant, is shaking things up. After the success of Gaa in Bangkok, she’s bringing her flair for innovation to India with Banng—a vibrant new restaurant in Gurugram created in partnership with Riyaaz Amlani. While Gaa showcases Indian cuisine, Banng flips the script, delivering bold Thai flavours to the heart of India.

The dining experience at Banng invites you to eat like the Thais do, with traditional and playful dishes. Highlights include the Banng’ing Omelet (Khai Jeaw) with a crunchy salad of Chinese celery and a sweet, sour, and spicy dressing, and the quirky Tom Kha Pani Puri, a chilled coconut broth with mushrooms and herbs served in crispy puris. The fun continues at the bar with Attapon De-Silva of the YOLO group creating a cocktail program inspired by the art of Muay Thai and Bangkok’s bustling fruit carts. Divided into Flyweight, Middleweight, and Heavyweight categories, the drinks range from light and refreshing to bold and spirit-forward. 

2. Vanilla Miel, Mumbai

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vanilla Miel (@vanilla_miel)

Vanilla Miel’s second outpost in Bandra is the current talk of the town. Run by sisters Isha and Mansi Shetty, this charming café is designed as a cosy, home-like retreat, inviting you to relax and recharge in a welcoming ambience.

There's something for everyone, from bakes, coffee, and breakfast plates to indulgent desserts and petite savoury bites. Standout options include cruffers (mini cruffins), a prawn brioche roll, a truffle mushroom tart, and the delightful fondue tree. The café’s coffee program features beans sourced from Chikkamagaluru, while teas are sourced from an estate in Palampur, ensuring every sip and bite is packed with flavour. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely chat, Vanilla Miel’s Bandra café is the perfect spot to savour the moment. 

3. After Dinner, Goa

This new bar in Anjuna lets you take things slow and savour the moment. Founded by Twinkle Keswani, Chef Rohan D’Souza, and Daniel Lobo, After Dinner is a cosy retreat which feels like heading to a friend’s place after a big night out. With a team known for gems like Pisco by the Beach and Lazy Goose, After Dinner invites you to relax and unwind in a homely yet refined ambience with delectable bites and sips. Highlights from the tapas style include Old School Tempura Sichuan Pepper River Prawn with soy-ginger dressing, Living Room Chicken Hot Dog Brioche Buns with caramelised onions and fennel cabbage sauerkraut, and sweet treats like Milk Chocolate Ganache & Walnut Profiteroles with macerated berries.

Mixologist Harsh Pandya’s creations turn cocktails into experiences, each inspired by a room in a house. For instance, the playful drink Lollipops and Rainbows is served with a teddy bear, Pandan-Infused Negroni is deep and earthy, channelling the study, and Something Saucy is a spicy-sweet tequila blend with coconut caviar. 

4. Bastian Chinois, Mumbai

Keep ‘em coming – there’s another Bastian in town! Bastian Chinois is the first progressive Szechuan restaurant with legendary Chef Hemant Oberoi at its helm. The 6000 sq. ft., 200-seater space includes an open-air mezzanine for pre- or post-dinner drinks. Unlike the signature earthy tones, the interiors feature a bold black-and-white theme, mosaic dragon flooring, backlit bars, and a maximalist vibe with mismatched chairs, oversized lamps and sculptures like the Chinese mermaid mascot.

Dig into Szechuan flavours with innovative presentations like Chicken Tien Chilli Bowl with Tian chilli, Beijing Duck Artisanal Plate, served with a Hoisin "paintbrush,” and Flying Noodles with chopsticks "floating" in the air. Pastry Chef Dhiraj Jankar and Chef Oberoi craft indulgent yet refined options like: Sesa-Misu (mousse, toffee, and sesame crack), Rock n Roll (fortune cigar with chocolate mascarpone) and Darsaan (fried noodles with honey and sesame seeds). Complement your meal with Asian-inspired cocktails featuring ingredients like ginseng, tea infusions, and Chinese spices. 

5. Cacaoté, Ahmedabad

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cacaoté (@cacaote.india)

Say hello to Ahmedabad’s newest indulgence: Cacaoté, a luxury chocolate and pastry boutique that’s as chic as it is delicious. Designed by Storm Worldwide and LEQB studio, this sprawling 15,000-square-foot space is home to a stunning pâtisserie and brasserie, where Michelin-starred Chef Jonathan Gallet works his magic. Think gourmet cakes, dreamy chocolates, and irresistible macarons crafted with the finest ingredients and cutting-edge techniques.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cacaoté (@cacaote.india)

Founded by the dynamic mother-son duo Vraj and Rita Patel, Cacaoté brings Belgian chocolate heritage to India in style. Signature treats like Blissful Bonbons, Petite Gateaux, and Marvellous Macarons are made with premium Valrhona cocoa, sourced from tropical regions and transformed into edible art. Whether you’re in it for the sweets or just the vibe, Cacaoté promises to make every visit feel like a special occasion.

6. Across, Mumbai 

This recently opened regional dining destination in Kala Ghoda brings Himalayan cuisine with a modern twist to your plate. Led by chefs Viraf Patel and Prakriti, Across blends traditional flavours with innovative techniques, spotlighting the unique ingredients and heritage of the Eastern Himalayas. Spices and seasonings are sourced directly from Himalayan regions to preserve authentic flavours. The must-try dishes that capture the soul of Himalayan cuisine include: Corn & Nettle Soup topped with Himalayan wild chives, Buckwheat Fries with salyan timur, chili, and charred tomato chutney, Fry Bread (Tibetan flatbread with Kalimpong cheese), Buff Choila (Smoked buff with bold spices and nutty red rice flakes), Lentil Pancakes (Savory black lentil pancakes with poached eggs) and Big Plates (Festive 9 Bean Stew, Mushroom Thukpa, Himalayan Trout, and Buff Kheema Noodles). 

7. Madras Cocktail Co, Chennai

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Madras Cocktail Company (@madco_chennai)

Tired of chaotic family bar scenes or deafening techno beats at every bar? Chennai’s latest F&B gem, Madras Cocktail Co. (or MadCo), is here to change the game. This speakeasy bar is perfect for catching up with friends over niche cocktails and bites—if you can find the hidden door, that is!

Once inside, you’re treated to an experience that’s all about great conversations in a cosy ambience. Sip on unique concoctions like the Espresso Martini, the tea-inspired Sulaimani Old-Fashioned, or the Mallipoo Spritz, a tribute to Chennai crafted with tequila and jasmine cordial. Pair these with delectable bites like Chinese-ish Chilli Chicken, Cheeselings jhalmuri spiced with mustard oil, or crunchy prawn heads. MadCo blends charm, creativity, and a touch of mystery—making it your next go-to spot for laid-back yet memorable evenings.

8. HyLo, Mumbai

From the former CEO of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Private Limited, Mayank Bhatt, comes a new space that focuses on hyperlocal Indian cuisine combining nostalgia with modernity. HyLo celebrates forgotten recipes, using locally sourced GI-tagged ingredients and traditional cooking techniques like Sigri (spitfire) Tawa (griddle), Dum (slow cooking), and Patthar (stone cooking). Dishes like the Banarasi Bedmi with crispy dal puris, Nalli Nihari with slow-cooked mutton, and Mangalorean Pomfret grilled over Sigri, offer a taste of regional Indian flavours. For comfort food, try Papadi Kebab and Lahori Tawa Chicken. And if you have a large appetite, opt for regional thalis like the Uttaranchali Thali or royal Laal Maas. Desserts like A Taste of Benaras put a modern spin on classic Indian sweets. Signature cocktails include the Forbidden Fruit with tequila and tropical fruits, Sid G with pisco and jackfruit, and the Chaiball, a twist on chai with whiskey and soda.

9. Cal-On, Kolkata

Located on the 7th floor of Hyatt Centric Ballygunge, Cal-On has officially opened its doors, offering a vibrant blend of food, drinks, and energy. This 5,202 sq. ft. rooftop venue features lush vertical gardens, chic glasshouses, and seating for 116 across elegant indoor and breezy outdoor spaces, creating the perfect setting for any occasion. Savour fusion bites like Blue Cheese Kulcha, Anda Paratha, and Kolmi No Patio, alongside sushi, wood-fired pizzas, global-inspired street bites, signature cocktails, and freshly brewed craft beers. And while you’re at it, soak in the atmosphere boasting Insta-worthy corners, peppy music, and a seamless indoor-outdoor vibe, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

10. Kerala Quarters, Mumbai

Kerala Quarters brings the vibrant flavours of Kerala to life in a contemporary yet classic setting. Founded by Pankaj Gupta of Flavour Pot Foods, this restaurant highlights Kerala’s rich culinary heritage with a fresh twist, offering dishes inspired by the state's diverse regions and traditional cooking techniques.

The menu features coastal flavours, hearty Syrian delicacies, and seafood classics like Panni Ularthiyathu (dry-roast lamb), Malabar Fried Fish, and Chemmeen Manga Curry (prawn curry with coconut and raw mango). There’s also a special focus on vegetarian dishes like the iconic Sadhya feast. The bar programme borrows inspiration from Kerala’s toddy shops where the spirit of gathering and simplicity is central. Sip on unique cocktails inspired by Kerala’s regional ingredients, served in generous 90 ml pours, including signature drinks like The Picante Curry and Agave & Vadagam.

11. Bastian Empire, Pune

Following the success of Bastian At The Top in Mumbai and Bastian Garden City in Bengaluru, Bastian enters Pune with Bastian Empire. Inspired by wabi-sabi, with textured Cappadocia-style entrances, cobblestone floors, and soaring ceilings, Bastian Empire offers a swanky dining experience and an energetic ambience. Distinct spaces cater to lively bar vibes and intimate fine dining. Nosh on Bastian favourites like Lobstaa Bomb, Mongolian Lamb, Robata Lamb Chop, Wild Mushroom Truffle Pasta and Vegan Green Curry Bowl, among others. You can’t miss the signature Lotus Kunafa Cheesecake and Pull-Me-Up Mille-Feuille. And of course, the Bastian Negroni is a must-have from the cocktail menu. 

12. Hitchens, Mumbai

Mumbai’s hospitality scene has a new gem – Hitchens – Cocktails and Ideas, a chic yet laid-back resto-bar in Khar West. Inspired by the sharp wit of Christopher Hitchens, this two-level spot blends creative cocktails, bold food, and lively conversations. Founded by film producer Rakesh Singh and production designer Aparna Sud, along with a creative team from theatre, literature, and art, Hitchens celebrates intellectual curiosity. The first floor hosts everything from dark comedy to spoken word nights, with Hitchens' aphorisms on the walls.

The food, led by Chef Gracian de Souza, offers a modern European menu with Asian influences. Dishes like Much Room of One’s Own and Bertie’s Bangers give a twist to classics. Mixologist Pawan Singh Rawat’s cocktails, like the 7 p.m. Feminist and Marxist Mule, combine bold flavours with unexpected ingredients. With art by Atharv Ghatulkar and Nagnath Mankeshwar, and quirky details like custom uniforms by Bollywood designer Priyanjali Lahiri, Hitchens is a vibrant, relaxed community hub where ideas flow as freely as the cocktails.

13. Sixteen33, Mumbai

An ode to Bandra, this neighbourhood bar blends local tradition with creative mixology. Named after its location at the intersection of 16th and 33rd roads, Sixteen33 transitions from an all-day dining spot to a sleek cocktail lounge by night. The drinks menu honours Bandra’s six villages with creative cocktails like the Ranwar (rice liqueur and gin) and Chuim (floral rum-based mix), while twists on classic Negronis add a unique touch.

The food menu, crafted by Chef Gracian de Souza, features comfort food like bacon-wrapped prawns and miso buff stir-fry. Signature bites like eggs benedict and pork ribs glazed with dark rum bring indulgence to every meal. Designed by Shweta Kaushik, the interiors combine vintage charm and modern sophistication, offering a cosy pub downstairs and an intimate, speakeasy-style den upstairs. With an inviting atmosphere, Sixteen33 is the perfect spot for a casual hangout or a special gathering.

14. Bar Spirit Forward, Bengaluru

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BarSpiritForward (@barspiritforward.blr)

With the growing demand for spirits and unique experiences among Bengaluru's diners, Bar Spirit Forward comes at the perfect time as a no-frill cocktail bar in the city. This means a bar focused on quality ingredients, a thoughtfully designed drink menu, and skilled bartenders. Though it’s been almost three months since its launch, this bar has already become the place to be in the city. As it’s more cocktail-forward, the food menu features a selection of small bites and larger dishes inspired by pan-Indian flavours, among other influences. Go for the cocktails, stay for the cocktails too. 

15. Terrāi, Hyderabad

The new Hyderabad restaurant throws the spotlight on Telangana cuisine. Founded by restaurateur Rohit Kasuganti and creative mind Anisha Deevakonda, the restaurant pays homage to local culinary traditions while supporting sustainable farming and empowering women farmers and tribal chefs.

In partnership with the Deccan Development Society, a cooperative of 5,000 indigenous women, Terrāi ethically sources ingredients, protects biodiversity, and champions food sovereignty. The menu highlights Telangana’s unique flavours with dishes like Karim Nagar Fried Chicken Wings and Terai Mutton Curry with Masala Pooris. The restaurant’s interiors, designed by Sona Reddy Studio, feature terracotta walls, Ikkat mouldings, and Dokra art, immersing diners in Telangana’s artisanal legacy. 

16. Scarlett House, Mumbai

In the charming Bandra village comes a new restaurant run by Malaika Arora, her son Arhaan Khan, Dhaval Udeshi and Malaya Nagpal. Scarlett House is a 90-year-old quaint, weathered bungalow that looks like you’ve entered a cosy home to dine in. But beyond its beautiful interiors, it’s the culinary and beverage programme that's noteworthy. Chef Beena Naronha has curated a menu focussing on clean eats. You’ll find gluten-free wraps, salads, and millet and jowar-based items on the menu. But there’s also a lot of comfort food like khichdi, which is Malaika’s homemade recipe that finds a place on the menu under 'Malla's Favourites.' Other picks include the Malabar sushi, a south-Indian twist on the Japanese dish, and banana fritters.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ELLE India (@elleindia)

In beverages, there’s a dedicated water bar serving an assortment of healthy elixirs, perfect for teetotalers, and a cocktail bar that features a compact menu of tipples (and is by invitation only). Scarlett House also houses retail products where the restaurant has teamed up with small-batch, local vendors, to give them a platform to showcase their produce. 

17. Espressos AnyDay, Gurugram

Because there’s no such thing as too many coffee shops, here’s your next must-visit: Espresso Anyday, from the creators of OMO Cafe and AMPM. This cosy spot seamlessly blends handcrafted eats, artisanal coffee, and a lively, welcoming vibe. Led by Chef Tarannum Sehgal, celebrated for her French culinary expertise, the café focuses on fresh, small-batch creations made daily. Treat yourself to Sandos & Smørrebrøds—gourmet sandwiches crafted with ethically sourced ingredients—or the indulgent AnyDay Tiramisu paired with Ngarum coffee, speciality brews from Nagaland. Not in the mood for caffeine? Sip on refreshing cold-pressed juices from Wild & Raw.

The space itself is a contemporary haven, complete with an open kitchen, handmade pasta, a striking yellow-tiled pizza oven, and a state-of-the-art La Marzocco KB-90 espresso machine. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a relaxed meal, Espresso Anyday redefines everyday indulgence with fresh flavours, great coffee, and a vibrant atmosphere. 

18. Donmai, Mumbai

Donmai, a modern-day izakaya in Worli, offers a refined dining experience that blends Japanese tradition with innovation. Conceptualised by Ish Patil and Sameer Uttamsingh, it’s a tranquil oasis designed for mindful diners, where Japanese culinary artistry meets modern interpretations. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Oishik Neogy, features flavour-forward, light, and balanced dishes. Highlights include crispy Nori Chips, Tuna Tartare, Takoyaki, and grilled Ebi prawns, alongside wholesome rice specials like Unagi Donabe. Signature dishes like Matcha fondant and Miso cheesecake offer a sweet finish.

The bar serves concept-driven, spirit-forward cocktails like Umammmiiiiiii and Sakuraaaaaa, with a focus on Japanese spirits, while zero-proof options and a curated tea menu cater to all preferences. 

19. The Fio Table, New Delhi

This Mediterranean-inspired dining experience celebrates the flavours of Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Enjoy dishes like smoky Greek Chicken Skewers, Spicy Feta and Falafel, and Truffle Potato Agnolotti, along with thin-crust pizzas and fresh salads. The ambience combines warm earthy tones, natural textures, and lush greenery, creating a cosy, elegant setting.

The soon-to-launch cocktail program features drinks made with Mediterranean ingredients like pistachio, fig, and basil, with signature mocktails such as Basil and Sweet Pea complementing the menu.

20. BarQat, Mumbai

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s latest culinary offering is an authentic ode to traditional Indian spices and cuisine. BarQat is an open-air Al Fresco restaurant that invites you to savour timeless Indian cuisine under a starlit sky. The heart and soul of BarQat lie in its commitment to curating an elaborate journey through authentic spices, flavours, ancestral recipes and traditional cooking techniques with a touch of modern presentation. Indulge in dishes such as Bhatti Ka Jheenga, Sarson Broccoli, Lucknowi Seekh, Gosht Nihari, Chooza Makhani, Rahra Beet Paneer, Noor Mahal Biryani, Mahi Ambi Tikka, Lucknowi Kulcha, Pudina Paratha and Awadhi Gosht Biryani amongst others. 

21. Dakshin Canteen, New Delhi

This new restaurant invites diners to explore the diverse flavours of South India through an evolving menu curated by Chef Ruchira Hoon. Drawing inspiration from her roots, Chef Ruchira offers dishes influenced by communities from Karnataka to Kerala and Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu. The canteen-style menu features contemporary small plates and traditional curries, focusing on indigenous ingredients like peppercorns, tamarind, and kokum.

Signature dishes include Coconut Rasam and Appalam, Inji Puli Chicken Wings, and Kothu Parotta, served with a choice of proteins. The restaurant also serves millet-based options like Bisibela Bhaat and Thayir Sadam, along with comforting desserts like Filter Kaapi Softy. Dakshin Canteen celebrates regional specialities with a Sunday Biryani ritual and special menus for festivals like Onam and Pongal. Designed to reflect a heritage bungalow crossed with an old-school canteen, the cosy space features checkered floors, rattan furniture, and a warm, inviting ambience. You can also shop for Chef Ruchira’s handcrafted podis, pickles, and chips at the shop-in-shop.

22. Luv, Mumbai

This new restaurant in Andheri makes you feel like you've walked straight into an episode of The Bear. Brought to life by brothers Luv and Chef Akash Deshpande, this restaurant blends innovative cuisine, soulful flavours, and thoughtful touches to create memorable dining moments. At its heart, Luv is a love letter to their childhood's warm, food-filled memories. Beneath the fine-dining presentation lies food that feels like a comforting hug for your soul.

With decor inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night, a zero-waste kitchen, and Chef Akash’s artwork, Luv creates a warm, cosy and artistic atmosphere. And the menu takes you on a flavour-packed adventure. Don't miss signature dishes like Kokum Prawns, Lamb Tacos, and Soft Shell Crab & Milk Bun. Vegetarians can dig into the Mushroom Tart and Tomato de Burrata Toast. For mains, indulgence awaits with Prawn Gnocchi and the richly spiced Coastal Sea Bass Curry. Chef Deshpande's passion for art translates in his desserts such as Starry Night and the Veiled Lady, which are great to end your meal with. Complete your dining experience with non-alcoholic drinks like the tangy Sober Mary and tropical Brazilian Lemonade. 

23. The Bigg Small Cafe + Bar

An all-day modern neighbourhood cafe, located in the corporate lanes of Lower Parel blends vibrant energy with cosy corners. From delectable bites and handcrafted cocktails, the luxurious space has been designed by Nishant Desai and Umesh Desai, founders of UDA India. The city indeed has a favourite new post-work party spot.