Nksha: Redefining North Indian Fine Dining in the Heart of South Mumbai

Right across from the bustling Churchgate station, Nksha stands out with its coral and forest-green façade, large picture windows, and an interior glow that invites you in. The restaurant’s concept is a nod to 1930s Churchgate, once a lively hub of fine dining, jazz, and cabarets frequented by Bombay’s elite. Nksha brings this vibrancy into the present day, blending vintage sophistication with contemporary design and bold North Indian flavors. Every corner of this establishment tells a story of the city’s colonial history and the bustling energy of Chandni Chowk. Here, nostalgia and creativity converge to create an elevated dining experience.

Ambiance
Architects Neesha Alwani and Shruti Jalan have brilliantly encapsulated Bombay’s bygone era, bringing together classic Art Deco with a touch of modernity. As you step inside, the cozy 49-seater space feels expansive, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that draw in natural light and open up views of the ever-present Churchgate neon sign—a reminder of where you are and where the city has been. The rich coral walls and deep green floors are complemented by antique brass fixtures, patina arches, and period wainscoting which create an atmosphere that is both elegant and warm. The decor draws from an extensive study of Art Deco elements, from embossed porcelain tableware to geometric glasses and delicate kansa (bronze) cutlery sourced from Khari Baoli in Delhi. Even the bathroom signage echoes vintage Bombay, adding thoughtful touches at every turn. The small but stylish three-seater bar in a corner is perfect for those dropping in solo for a drink or waiting for a table. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to dress up.

What We Tried
Nksha’s menu, inspired by classic North Indian dishes, combines traditional flavors with fresh, global ingredients. The Chandni Chowk-inspired starters brought a delightful twist—familiar yet unexpected.

We enjoyed the galouti kebabs which were mouth-melting mutton mince patties made in desi ghee served over flaky parathas.

For the main course, we opted for the Delhi Style Butter Chicken—tender, boneless pieces perfectly spiced and refreshingly not too sweet. The signature dal makhani brought an indulgent mix of cream and butter, adding a comforting richness to the meal. Desserts kept up the inventive flair with an Apple Gujiya paired with Chinni Malai ice cream and a hint of cinnamon, alongside a Baked Gulab Jamun topped with barik boondi and luscious rabri.

Nksha’s cocktail program pushes the boundaries with inventive, well-crafted drinks that pay homage to Mumbai’s diverse palate. Bar manager Varun Sudhakar has created a lineup of cocktails that are as colorful and bold as they are delicious. The 1966 cocktail, inspired by Mumbai’s famous chaat, features a fusion of green tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco, paired with butter-washed bourbon and a single bite of papri chaat on the side. The Churchgate cocktail infuses Bhavnagri chilli with mezcal, balancing spice with citrus notes, while the Desi Ghee drink combines ghee-washed white rum with Thums Up and umeshu bitters—a playful twist on the classic rum and cola.

Teetotalers, too, are treated to a diverse menu of non-alcoholic beverages that go beyond the standard fare. Nksha’s zero-proof options include a refreshing kahwa iced tea and fresh-pressed apple juice with non-alcoholic gin, perfect for those who want an intricate, thoughtfully created drink without alcohol. The attention to detail extends to the presentation, with each drink coming with a unique twist—like a stirrer shaped like a train station sign or small nostalgic candies like Pan Pasand with the check.

What worked

Nksha’s food shines through with a creative blend of North Indian flavors, delivering both nostalgia and innovation. The galouti kebabs and Delhi-style Butter Chicken struck a perfect balance between tradition and refinement, while the rich dal makhani added a comforting touch. Desserts took a delightful twist, with the Apple Gujiya and Baked Gulab Jamun offering fresh spins on classic sweets. Cocktails like the chaat-inspired 1966 and Desi Ghee rum and cola showcased regional influences with a bold edge. Even the non-alcoholic options were impressive, rounding out an inclusive and memorable dining experience.

Verdict
At Nksha, North Indian flavors and vintage Bombay elegance come together in a fine dining experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. Chef Arora’s creative menu and the thoughtfully curated decor make Nksha a standout for anyone seeking a refined yet nostalgic meal.