Just good coffee isn’t enough anymore. With the popularity of social media, coffee shops in India have had to conceptualise unique interiors to attract people. From coffee shops with arresting interiors that transport visitors to magnificent international destinations to cafes housed in ancient buildings, these are the most picturesque coffee shops in India.
1. Machan, Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi: COFFEE SHOPS
The re-imagined Machan features awe-inspiring interiors. Custom designed wall coverings recreating scenes of the jungle-scape depict the beauty of nature and magnificence of the Indian tiger. The arresting cane tree canopies, a series of terracotta animal masks specially created by local artists, contemporary lanterns, and elegant banquette seating set the backdrop for a wonderful dining experience. We also love that most of the materials used at Machan have been sourced locally and created by artists from neighbouring states. Order their refreshing beverages and snacks inspired by the rich heritage of the Indian forests, and you will not be disappointed!
The Machan is an iconic restaurant located in the Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, known for its inviting ambiance and a creative menu that caters to a diverse palate. Opened in the early 1970s, The Machan was one of the first themed restaurants in India and remains beloved for its forest-inspired décor, which evokes the feel of a luxurious jungle lodge.
The menu at The Machan offers an eclectic mix of global and Indian cuisines, celebrating flavors from across the world with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include their unique takes on Indian classics, European-inspired plates, and a range of breakfast options. Known for both its buffet and à la carte options, the restaurant is especially popular for breakfast, brunch, and late-night meals.
In addition to its food, The Machanhttps://elledecor.in/article/coffee-commitments-risking-caffeine-overload-heres-what-we-find-on-a-coffee-culture-hunt-around-mumbai/‘s cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a favored spot for hotel guests and visitors alike, maintaining its reputation as one of New Delhi’s most iconic dining destinations.
2. KMC* Mumbai: COFFEE SHOPS
Situated in the heritage building of Kitaab Mahal, KMC* is an interpreted space that promotes a culture, free of boundaries. The interiors of the cafe feel like a natural extension of the colonial architecture. It is a place that feels young and old at the same time, a place that feels familiar and unconventional. Every element of KMC* has been thoughtfully curated to bring together a warm embrace of comfort, from food to space. Menu highlights include the Americano, Cappuccino, Vietnamese Coffee, and Cortado, and dishes like Smoked Pork Tacos, Buff Sando, and Quiche x Cheesecake, a unique savoury take on cheesecake.
KMC* Mumbai, or the Kamala Mills Compound, is a well-known commercial and entertainment hub located in Lower Parel, Mumbai. Originally an industrial area, it has been transformed over recent years into a bustling complex filled with trendy restaurants, cafes, bars, boutiques, and office spaces. KMC* has become one of Mumbai’s hottest destinations, drawing both locals and tourists with its vibrant nightlife, variety of dining options, and unique, upscale vibe.
The area is popular for its diverse culinary experiences, featuring an array of cuisines from local Maharashtrian to Italian, Japanese, and contemporary fusion. Restaurants in KMC* often have stylish interiors and rooftop setups, making it a favorite spot for weekend brunches, dinners, and nightlife. Additionally, many innovative eateries, concept bars, and experiential dining spots have chosen Kamala Mills as their base, adding to its reputation as a trendsetter in the city’s food and beverage scene.
The Kamala Mills Compound continues to expand and evolve, blending Mumbai’s industrial heritage with modern lifestyle offerings. It’s an essential part of Mumbai’s urban landscape and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s thriving culture.
3.MAAI, Goa:
Nestled in a 123-year-old Portuguese villa, MAAI is a picturesque eatery and coffee shop. Its interiors are inspired by trendy summer holiday destinations from around the world. MAAI offers alfresco seating under the stars or inside the mansion it is located in. The welcoming space features warm yellow lights, walls with black and white photographs of Goa, and rustic decor accessories. MAAI’s food and drinks menu is a celebration of Goa’s rich culinary heritage. The extensive menu features traditional Goan and Portuguese-inspired dishes and coffee made using beans roasted in-house.
MAAI is a chic restaurant and lounge located in the charming Fontainhas neighborhood of Panaji, Goa. Situated in a beautifully restored Portuguese-era mansion, MAAI combines the rich heritage of Goa with a modern culinary twist, creating an inviting space that pays homage to Goan culture and history.
The restaurant specializes in a fusion of Goan, Indian, and international flavors, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Dishes are often reimagined with modern touches, offering diners a fresh yet nostalgic experience. Known for its inventive cocktails and warm ambiance, MAAI is a popular choice for both locals and travelers seeking an authentic yet contemporary Goan dining experience.
The decor of MAAI reflects its unique location, with vintage elements, handcrafted details, and an elegant blend of Indo-Portuguese design. This makes it not only a dining destination but also a picturesque spot to soak in Goa’s cultural essence while enjoying a sophisticated meal or drink.
4. Elgin Cafe, Amritsar:
Conceptualised by architecture and interior design studio Renesa, Elgin Cafe is a bistro by day and a restaurant and wine bar by night. The eatery’s interiors are evocative of dining in nature and is awash in emerald green granite from Udaipur. The eatery features green granite wall panelling and tabletops, gold furnishings, tan leather seats, wicker chairs, and plenty of plants. Elgin Cafe’s multi-cuisine small plates and cocktails are worth ordering.
Elgin Cafe is a popular cafe and dining spot in Amritsar, known for its elegant colonial-inspired decor and cozy atmosphere. Situated in the heart of the city, this cafe offers a welcoming ambiance with vintage touches, like high ceilings, wooden furnishings, and soft lighting, creating a refined yet comfortable environment perfect for casual get-togethers, dates, or family gatherings.
The menu at Elgin Cafe features a blend of continental, Italian, and Indian dishes, catering to a wide range of tastes. From hearty breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches to pasta, pizzas, and innovative Indian fusion dishes, the cafe offers something for everyone. Their desserts, especially the cheesecakes and pastries, are also well-loved by patrons.
Elgin Cafe is also popular for its beverage selection, which includes freshly brewed coffee, specialty teas, and refreshing mocktails, making it an ideal place to unwind. Known for its quality food, attentive service, and serene ambiance, Elgin Cafe is a cherished spot for both locals and visitors in Amritsar.
5. The Bhawanipur House, Kolkata:
Showcasing colonial architecture, The Bhawanipur House transports visitors back in time. The bistro’s owners hope people slow down and spend hours at their establishment. The outdoor seating area houses an imposing mango tree that towers over the compound and a serene lotus pond. The cafe offers delicious multi-cuisine plates and steaming hot pots of coffee and tea. Our favourites from their menu are the Chicken Tetrazzini, Moussaka, Spaghetti Bolognese, Lahme, Egg Quattro Formaggi, Tuscan Potato, and the Mediterranean Buddha Bowl.
The Bhawanipur House in Kolkata is a stylish dining destination that beautifully combines Kolkata’s rich cultural heritage with a modern, upscale dining experience. Housed in a charming heritage building in the historic Bhawanipur neighborhood, the restaurant is known for its elegant interiors, featuring classic wooden furnishings, vintage decor, and touches that echo the nostalgia of old Kolkata.
The Bhawanipur House offers a curated menu that brings together Bengali, North Indian, and contemporary fusion dishes, providing guests with a taste of both local and pan-Indian flavors. Traditional Bengali dishes are given special attention, celebrating the local cuisine with authentic ingredients and recipes that capture the essence of Kolkata’s culinary heritage.
With its warm ambiance, refined interiors, and a menu that appeals to diverse palates, The Bhawanipur House is a sought-after spot for family gatherings, intimate dinners, and cultural events. It provides guests with a memorable dining experience that honors Kolkata’s history while catering to modern tastes.