Sing For Your Supper at Mirai, Mumbai’s New Japanese & Korean Restaurant

When it comes to pairing food with fun, Mirai in Bandra hits all the right notes—quite literally. This Wabi-Sabi style Japanese and Korean dining spot has thrown a private karaoke room into the mix, giving Mumbai diners the chance to harmonise their appetites with their inner pop stars. But don’t let the playful addition fool you; Mirai is serious about its food and drink.

With twelve years in Mumbai’s pan-Asian hospitality industry under his belt, co-founder, Rinchen Angchuk is readier than ever to begin this new step into what he refers to as the ‘Yin and Yang affair’. Why Yin and Yang? The menu at Mirai is a lively conversation between two distinct culinary personalities: the composed precision of Japanese dishes and the fiery kick of Korean ones.

The Food

Angchuk attests that Japanese and Korean cuisines are the perfect companions to offer in a singular meal. Both rely on fermentation techniques, attention to seafood, seaweed, seasonal and fresh produce to kindle an umami of flavours. His co-founder Saamir Chandnani agrees, “Both cuisines are so diverse, yet connected by geographical proximity and ingredients.”

Each dish showcases the very best of its roots while offering a complementary counterpart from the other cuisine. The tender Yakitori skewers stands shoulder to shoulder with spicy Dakkochi chicken, and the delicate Yaki Gyoza shares space with hot and tangy Tteokbokki rice cakes.

The mains carry this theme forward with Grilled Chicken Yuzu Teriyaki providing a refreshing citrus hit, while the Spicy Samgyupsal BBQ pays heed to robust Korean flavours with pan-grilled pork belly served alongside banchan (side dishes) and dipping sauces. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the hot pot makes its entrance, giving diners the reins to customise their meal with a choice of fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Consulting on all things grilled and Wok-ed, Chef James Biaka has trained for decades under master chefs in both countries to assist the restaurant in sourcing premium ingredients and maintaining their nutritional value once cooked. Their food menu is therefore well researched and steeped in its origins.

And the desserts aren’t to be overlooked either, retaining as much of a showstopper role as the rest of the meal. Ice creams seem to be the main act here with a selection of Mochi ice creams, and hand churned Green-tea and Sesame ice creams.

The Space 

Mirai’s interiors, designed with minimalist ashwood finishes and sepia-toned lighting, set quite the stage for culinary theatrics. Opt for the Japanese tatami-style seating that lays out low tables and floor cushions. Or gather your friends around the live Korean BBQ tables for a smoky Hot Experience you can cook yourself.

Tabletop grilling sets ups have been arranged too, for meats and banchan, allowing guests to personalise their meals. Those feeling adventurous can “leave it to the chef” at the restaurant’s stone and wood Omakase counter that guarantees a surprise.

The Drinks

The dramatics certainly don’t end there. The beverage programme is a standout feature, helmed by self-proclaimed “Liquid Chef,” Vishvesh Koli, containing a curated a selection of 12 Korean and Japanese-inspired cocktails serving as a playground for inventive drinks that flirt with tradition. His creations are firmly grounded in authenticity, featuring syrups, cordials, and even pickles are made in-house using locally sourced ingredients.

Take the Gochujang Picante, for example—a fiery Korean rendition on the classic that’s equal parts spicy, smoky, and strangely addictive. Or perhaps their clear cocktails such as Sakura Hiaboru that is as visually deceptive as it is floral and delicious. Or, for the uninitiated, the Sake and Soju tastings led by in-house experts who allow you the privilege of a dabble while keeping your glass generously topped up.

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When you’ve had a tad too many glasses of grapefruit Soju you can tap along to the rock music energising the kitchen crew, or grab the mic to perform the show of a lifetime. It’s a place where you don’t just eat—you experience. And who knows? You might leave not only with a full belly but also a new go-to karaoke anthem.