Avatara of Taste and Flavours In the bustling streets of Mumbai, where the aroma of spices and sizzling pans is a symphony to the senses, a new culinary star has emerged. Avatara, the celebrated vegetarian restaurant that has won the accolade of two Michelin stars (a first for a vegetarian restaurant) in Dubai, has now unveiled its Mumbai outpost, promising a culinary experience that transcends borders and tantalises the palates. By Spiritz Desk 12 Jul 2024 | Updated On 12 Jul 2024 14:50 IST in Destination New Update Nestled in the heart of Mumbai, Chef Rahul Rana's brainchild has found its rightful home in Juhu Tara road, helmed by the very talented Chef Sarfaraz Hussain and supported quite ably by Chef Sanket. As you step into the restaurant, you are immediately enveloped by an ambience that exudes sophistication and warmth. The minimalist décor, with its clean lines, soft sea blue walls and understated elegance, sets the stage for an epicurean adventure. The open kitchen where the dishes are plated adds to this elegance and adds further to the diner's experience. Here, diners are not just passive guests but active participants in the culinary process; witnessing first-hand the artistry that goes into crafting each dish. And what dishes they are! From the first bite to the last, every morsel at the Avatara come across as a revelation, a testament to Chef Rahul Rana's culinary vision and the skill of his proteges. Be it the way he has married bitter to mango sambhar gelato or moringa chokha with sattu kachori inspires awe. Each dish here is a clever version of the traditional classic. Taking a cue from the Vedas, the menu focuses on the elements highlighted in our ancient texts and weaves a magical culinary story around it. The menu thus starts off with Naivedhya wherein diners are served Panchamrit with mishra and makkhan malai to kick-start the meal and then moves along through 13 more courses; engaging the sensory nerves in an enthralling fashion. Wines & More... But what truly sets Avatara apart is its ingenious wine pairing. The restaurant boasts of an expansive wine cellar, curated with meticulous care to complement the diverse flavours of its 14-course tasting menu. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or a novice wine enthusiast, the selection at Avatara is sure to delight and surprise. From crisp, aromatic whites to bold, robust reds, each wine at the restaurant is carefully chosen to enhance the nuances of the accompanying dishes, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours on the palate. Labels like Chateau Angelus rub their shoulders with Chablis Hamelin in a magical list that is sure to tantalise your palate. Under the expert guidance of Prateek, the in-house sommelier, diners are taken on a journey through the vineyards of the world; exploring new varietals and rediscovering old favourites with each course. From the delicate notes of Chateau la Mascaronne to the earthy complexity of Parusso Dolcetto, every sip here is a revelation, enhancing the flavours of the food and elevating the dining experience to new heights. There is something to suit varied pockets on this wine list. Labels ranging from Rs.3500 to all the way to Rs. 2,70,000 find their place on this list, which reads like the who's who of the fine wine world! A Culinary Adventure As you dine at the Avatara, you can't help but marvel this seamless synergy between food and wine, with each element complementing and enhancing the other in a perfect union of taste and texture. It is a testament to Chef Rahul Rana's culinary prowess and his unwavering commitment to excellence. This is further accentuated with the fact that ubiquitous ingredients like paneer and mushroom are absent and uncommon ingredients like bitter gourd, okra, moringa, parsnip and alu vadi find their due in the menu. In a city known for its culinary diversity, Avatara stands out as a shining beacon of vegetarian gastronomy, a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in the kitchen. With its impeccable service, exquisite cuisine, and unparalleled wine pairing, it is no wonder if Avatara quickly become the talk of the town in Mumbai. So, if you are looking for a dining experience in Mumbai that transcends the ordinary and transports you to a world of culinary bliss, look no further than Avatara, and don't miss out their lovely wine pairing. I am sure this will re-define vegetarian gastronomy for you! You May Also like Read the Next Article