Luv: A Restaurant Inspired by Art and Family Bonds in the heart of Andheri, Mumbai

Sometimes, dining out isn’t just about the food—it’s about stepping into someone’s story. That’s exactly how I felt walking into Luv, a cozy new restaurant tucked away in Lokhandwala, Andheri. Created by Chef Akash Deshpande and his brother Luv, this place isn’t just a culinary spot, it’s an artistic expression of love, family, and food.

The name itself intrigued me—Luv. Turns out the brothers, Akash and Luv, were inspired by the bond between Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo, who supported him emotionally and financially. Akash explained that his brother Luv has been his "Theo," standing by him through every challenge in his journey as a chef. That connection is at the heart of everything here.

Ambience
The moment I stepped inside, I felt like I was visiting someone’s home—warm, personal, and inviting. The walls are adorned with Akash’s vibrant paintings, each telling its own story. The indoor seating has a living-room vibe, while the outdoor space feels like a casual gathering spot, perfect for friends or family.

What caught my attention immediately was the open kitchen. Watching the chefs work—rolling dough, plating dishes, and creating art on plates—added a sense of intimacy and excitement. It’s not every day that you get to see the creative process unfold in real time.

Food
The menu at Luv isn’t overwhelming, but every dish feels carefully chosen. Akash’s focus on fresh, daily sourced ingredients is evident in every bite. The menu is divided into vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, featuring everything from handmade pasta to family recipes that have been elevated with creative twists.

What I Tried
The first dish to arrive, that set the tone for the evening was Pan-fried Gyoza. The gyoza were perfectly golden and crispy, stuffed with bok choy, and served with a spicy chutney that added a fiery kick. The next dish on the menu that caught my attention was the Kokum Prawn Crackers and I couldn’t resist trying this family recipe. The prawns were cooked in a tangy kokum-infused coconut curry, paired with prawn crackers with a side of prawn pickle. It was comforting, bold, and a true standout. My favorite however was the Lamb Taco Chimichurri. The lamb was slow-cooked for eight hours in red wine and was melt-in-your-mouth tender. It was layered on a soft taco with carrot purée and a smoky chimichurri sauce which balanced the richness of the meat perfectly.

For dessert, I chose the Starry Night, inspired by Van Gogh’s iconic painting. It was visually stunning, with vanilla custard, muskmelon mousse, and a passion fruit jelly crescent.

What I Loved
The lamb taco chimichurri was the star for me as every element came together perfectly. The open kitchen brought an element of theatre to the meal, making me feel like a part of the experience.

Verdict
Luv isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt experience. Akash and Luv have poured their passion into every corner of this space, from the dishes to the artwork on the walls. The food is unpretentious yet creative, the portions generous, and the pricing refreshingly reasonable.

I left Luv feeling like I’d been part of something special—a celebration of art, food, and family. If you’re looking for a dining experience that combines warmth, creativity, and unforgettable flavors, Luv is the place to be. Andheri just got a new gem, and I can’t wait to go back.