Occupying a former textile factory in Mumbai’s old industrial district, Relais & Chateaux’s first restaurant in India, Masque, is a delicious treat. With lauded Chef Varun Totlani helming culinary efforts, the fine-dining establishment offers a unique take on Indian food: an exposition of India’s lesser-known terroirs, with infusions of innovative cooking techniques surrounding local and seasonal flavors. Farm-to-fork is the name of the game here, with ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors.
The main dining room pulls in guests at first entrance with its subtle-yet-handsome brown furnishings and moody lighting. Seating-wise, diners encircle round tables that breed conversation.
Head to the restaurant’s derriere mezzanine and grab a drink at The Living Room: an elegant bar serving Ayurvedic-inspired cocktails conjured via the imbibe talents of illustrious mixologist Ankush Gamre. Libations here suffuse local spices and fruits, further continuing the restaurant’s farm-to-table ethos. Heed our advice and order the Gamble, a smooth pisco-mezcal-guava tonic that will win you over at first sip.
But, perhaps the restaurant’s most exclusive experience is its private room, The Lab. Branded as a culinary research gallery, the space fits 12 diners. With a seat-lined counter fringing an open kitchen where guests can see the restaurant’s chef prepare their meal in front of them, The Lab often tests out new dishes Totlani has conjured before it makes it to the main restaurant. Occasionally, the restaurant will host guest chefs, allowing them to embed their creativity on all fronts.
When here, expect an ambrosial ten-course meal — vegetarian and non-vegetarian options exist. From the Makkai Mathri in the beginning to the chocolate-passion fruit dessert at the end, you’re in for a treat.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
Location: Mumbai, India
Cuisine: Indian
Pricing: $$$$
Takes Reservations: Yes, reservations directly via phone/text on +91 98190 69222 or by email on [email protected]
Our favorite thing on the menu?: While the menu changes seasonally, the wintertime chocolate-passion fruit dessert wooed us over. To be honest, everything on the menu is thoughtfully prepared and tasty to its core.
The Vibe: A swish restaurant that heralds tastemakers from all over due to its lauded menu and slick décor.
The Attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?: Sunday lunch & daily dinner
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