The new year brings with it a promise of freshness; a guarantee of new experiences. While we all have big hopes for 2021, here’s a list of top restaurants in Mumbai that we assure will help start your new year on a good note.

Bastian, Worli

Love Bandra’s Bastian? The good news is that its got a second address! Located in Worli, this new outlet is bigger and might we say, more exciting. After being wowed by the part-quaint, part-quirky, but utterly delightful dining space settle in for some serious cocktails at the 28-foot tall hydraulic bar manned by the very amiable John Leese. The best seats in the house are a level up in the PDR section which gives a birds eye view of the attractive dining space crowned with sublime Papier-mâché chandeliers.

Must try: Start off with the excellent seafood and avocado ceviche. The salmon jalapeno is a game-changer, transforming the fish into a rock star on a bed of ponzu. As for larger plates, the burnt chili garlic crab with mini mantou hits the right spot. There are lots of vegan options and a terrific robata section too. If you fancy desserts with a dose of drama then be sure to check out the Lotus pull me up cake. And don’t forget to have your photo taken on the charming swing at the entrance.

Where: Wadia International Center, Worli.

Sesami, Powai

Brought to you by the talented team behind Love & Cheesecake and Poetry, Sesame is a destination for Asian cuisine. Located in Powai, the tall French windows boast sweeping views of the busy Hiranandani streets. The menu with a wide range of Asian favourites has a dash of modern creativity thrown in by chef and co-founder Amit Sharma. Expect deeply delicious soups, expertly executed sushis, pillowy dumplings, silky Thai curries and heavenly desserts (the last bit was expected).

Must Try: Start with the spicy and comforting Tom Yum soup and gravitate towards the dumplings. The stir fried seasonal vegetables pack a serious crunch while the beautifully tender Braised Pork Belly makes a smashing main course with the sublime jasmine rice. But the piece de résistance is the chocolate and berry dessert. Gooey, fruity and sensational—this is what serious dessert dreams are made of.

Where: 1st floor, Rodas Hotel, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai

Foo, Vikroli

This is an ideal place to soak up the sun. The best part about this gigantic 4,000-square-feet Asian restobar is the expansive deck that overlooks the mountainous side of Powai. The relaxed vibe is perfect for a crisp Yuzu Negroni post work or leisurely brunches on weekends.

Must Try: First up, there’s Foo’s stellar range of tapas that are simply unmissable and then there’s the burrata with crunchy quinoa bits on top. The red snapper slathered in oyster sauce and blue butter Japanese fried rice is satisfying, with layers of depth and complexity. Round it off with a sesame marble cheesecake.

Where: Kailash Industrial Complex, Vikhroli West.

Edgware Road, Juhu

The Gram-factor at this Middle Eastern restobar is top-notch. We’re talking 1950’s retro vibe, mood lighting, old world black and white tiles, island bar and artworks featuring The Beatles and the Queen. As for the menu, well that’s equally Gram-worthy with dishes from iconic restaurants on London’s famous Edgware Road.

Must Try: Feast upon Beiruti Hummus drizzled with parsley, onions and tomatoes and fries served with a delishish garlic toum. Make sure to save room for the shawarmas and juicy kakabs. Finish with a slice of the baklava or kunefe served with ice-cream.

Where: 1st Floor, Hotel Royal Garden, Juhu.

+94 Bombay, Palladium Mall

Zorawar Kalra’s latest venture is an ode to regional Maharashtrian delicacies and Sri Lankan cuisine. The kitchen is helmed by chef Dipesh Shinde, a true blue Mumbaikar. +94 is the country code of Sri Lanka and Shinde seems to have a firm grip on the cuisine of the island nation. There is also a juice bar here aimed at the parched shoppers at Palladium Mall.

Must Try: Experiment with the Kolhapuri Pandra Rassa offered as a slow cooked broth with baby lamb shank. Kothimbir Vadi, a Maharashtrian tea-time snack is another flavourful indulgence. Mains hold many tantalising options such as a rustic chicken curry with vade and Jaffna Goat curry. The delicious Watalappan makes for a memorable dish.