The iconic Bastian Bandra in Mumbai, whose closure made headlines a few months ago, has been reborn. The space has now reopened as Bastian Ammakai, a restaurant focusing on soulful Mangalorean cuisine, backed by actor Shilpa Shetty and her partner, CEO and founder Ranjit Bindra.
A Space Transformed with South Indian Warmth
Located at the exact same spot in Bandra where Bastian Bandra operated until August, the venue has undergone a complete transformation. The design immerses guests in earthy terracotta and rust tones, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a warm South Indian home. Instead of one large hall, arched doorways cleverly divide the 125-seater restaurant into intimate, cozy pockets.
Every detail tells a story. The interiors feature hand-painted motifs, textured walls and pillars, and patterned floors inspired by traditional kolams, weaves, and temple art. The plush seating is dressed in handcrafted textiles. Even the bar blends in seamlessly, with layered textures and shelves designed to feel more like a home bar than a formal counter. Playful quotes styled as stereotypical 'Amma' lines add a touch of humour to the walls.
The Essence of 'Amma's Hand' on a Plate
The name 'Ammakai' translates to 'Amma's hand', and the culinary philosophy is built around this homely concept. The kitchen team, led by chefs from southern India, travelled to villages in Mangaluru to learn recipes directly from home kitchens. The aim is not to reinvent but to reveal the depth of coastal flavours defined by coconut, tamarind, and spice.
The result is a menu that is refined yet deeply authentic, offering comfort without heaviness. Dishes range from a unique methi-carrot puliyogare salad to spicy butter green prawns, a punchy raw mango red snapper, and a fiery koli pulimunchi chicken made with Karnataka's famous Byadgi chilli. Mains encourage eating with hands and include a thick menthi soppina pappu (toor dal with fenugreek), a coastal vegetable stew, and a tangy Mangalorean fish curry, best enjoyed with paper-thin neer dosas. A few favourites from the old Bastian menu, like the burrata sourdough, remain.
Cocktails, Pricing, and Opening Details
The bar program, led by Krishna, thoughtfully incorporates South Indian pantry ingredients. Cocktails like the 'Amma’s Ghat Road' with kokum and green chilli, and the 'Mysuru Royale Paan Negroni' with paan-infused gin, are standout creations. Desserts tap into nostalgia with offerings like chana dal payasam and Filter Kaapi soft serve.
Importantly, Ammakai positions itself as relatively accessible. Appetisers start at Rs 250, curries from Rs 440 onwards, and cocktails are priced between Rs 595 and Rs 725. A meal for two is estimated at around Rs 2,500.
The restaurant opens to the public on Friday, December 19, and will operate from 11 am to 1 am, offering Mumbaikars a new destination for authentic coastal flavours in a thoughtfully designed setting.
