Ammakai is a homely ode to Karnataka's flavours
A warm, soulful space where Karnataka’s flavours and nostalgia come together effortlessly
At the place where Bastian Bandra once stood - the Bollywood favourite that further cemented the suburb’s status as a celebrity hotspot - now stands Ammakai, a homely all-day dining concept rooted in Karnataka soul food.
'Ammakai' means 'mum’s hand', and everything from the fabulous cocktails to the main course reflects this ethos. The destination welcomes guests from morning through night, offering food that feels deeply personal, familiar, and comforting.
The space itself feels like an extension of the menu. Warm terracotta walls, hand-painted patterns, and textured tiles give the space an earthy, lived-in charm while clusters of brass bells cast a golden glow overhead. Quirky signage dotted across the restaurant ("no selling amma's jewellery to pay bills" and "when are you getting married?" being a few) adds moments of humour.
Since its opening on 19 December, Ammakai has gained steady popularity, honouring Bastian’s culinary and social legacy. “Bastian Bandra has always been incredibly lucky for us. Before we say goodbye to the building, we wanted one more year of welcoming our community with something new, while still holding on to what they love,” shares Ranjit Bindra, Founder & CEO, Bastian Hospitality in a press statement.
In that spirit, select Bastian classics remain on the menu - a nod to the dishes that Bandra locals grew up with, celebrated, and kept coming back for - ensuring continuity, familiarity, and comfort even as the space embraces a new identity.
For the food, the team at Ammakai collaborated with chefs who have spent decades mastering Karnataka cuisine, travelling through towns and villages to learn recipes directly from mothers who have safeguarded them with instinct and love.
However, our favourites were the unique cocktails. Our picks below if you're heading there this week:
Malnadu Mist - gin infused with coffee, cascara and orange, rounded out with hazelnut liqueur, vanilla forest honey, lemon, and magic velvet. A spicy delight.
Filter Kaapi Vodka - Vodka shaken with filter coffee decoction, Licor 43, and Kahlúa, topped with a light oat milk foam. Comforting and delicious.
Namma Gova - Tequila Blanco shaken with guava–chilli purée, fresh lime, and a slice of green chilli. Bright and sparkling.
Where Bastian was bold and buzzy, Ammakai feels gentler, holding on to warmth and hospitality. It's definitely worth a visit, especially this holiday season.