Earlier, it was the consensus that picking a good restaurant was solely dependent on the cuisine, because good food equals a good restaurant. And while that may be true, food is no longer the only aspect that defines a dining experience. The interiors and design of a restaurant have become an important factor for many, given that it can alleviate one’s dining experience. Walking through the doors, the first thing one notices when they enter a restaurant is the ambience – the lighting, décor, seating design, prominent statement structures and elements. All of these have been said to affect a customer’s mood when entering the space and can often be one of the defining factors on their return to the same restaurant. Innovative design with interiors that become a talking point is among the top priorities for restaurant owners. It is also a major aspect that can affect the success rate of the restaurant. When it comes to creativity in design, restaurateurs tend to pick a theme, be it glamorous or retro-chic. Some look to specific destinations for inspiration, which is among the top trends currently. Other prominent elements like a distinguished colour palette and complementary décor further establish the theme and design of the space. Akina, Mumbai A new Japanese fine dining space in Mumbai, Akina’s glam maximalist interiors are a standing highlight of the restaurant, aside from its delectable menu. While the restaurant manages to bring in the best of Japanese tradition and heritage to the food, it does the same with the design sensibilities that influences the space. In Japan, design is characterised by organic forms that represent nature with tons of geometric shapes. Bringing in parts of these traditional elements, Akina showcases an organic yet contemporary space with modern design inspired by traditional Japanese roots. Bold red hues outline the entirety of the 5,000 sq. ft. restaurant; Japanese spring flowers are the main motifs highlighted throughout the restaurant. The bar in Akina takes on a regal red, black and gold theme with a minimalist curved back-lit onyx, inspired by the traditional Shoji screens illuminating traditional homes in Japan. Dubai-based F&B Entrepreneur Ryan SNR who partnered with Hitesh Keswani for the restaurant, wanted to support the Indian local artisan community FINE DINE MEETS LUXE INTERIORS Restaurants are looking to provide a wholesome experience with impressive interiors BY SCHENELLE DSOUZA as well while building the place. And so, the restaurant uses a substantial portion of the dinnerware and crockery made by local artisans in India as well as Japan. A fun new addition to the already glamorous restaurant is the luxurious underground speakeasy lounge called Prive by Akina. Envisioned to be an oasis of warmth, mystery and magic, Prive is enveloped in a lush jewel blue velvet and suede with a striking Koi Pond water ripple ceiling. With its regal tones and lush décor, Prive is the ideal spot for a sit-down session post a memorable meal at Akina. Bar Palladio, Jaipur Jaipur’s Bar Palladio, with its striking blue interiors, is the perfect contrast to the beautiful pink city of India. The restaurant is an ode to Italian style and cuisine that takes inspiration from the iconic Caffé Florian and Harry’s Bar in Venice, while maintaining key motifs from Mughal design. The name comes from the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. Akina, Mumbai Akina, Mumbai 12|L U X E B O O K|D E C E MB E R 2 0 2 2 D E C E MB E R 2 0 2 2 |L U X E B O O K| 13 THE DINING EXPERIENCE
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