From authentic grub to modern experiments, slices of the world to dollops of desi, this year’s batch of new restaurants has really turned it up. We pick the toppers from across the country.

Izumi, Mumbai

Why?

 Izumi puts the A in authentic when it comes to Japanese food in the city. It’s not a large place (a 15-seater, with no reservations accepted), but your meal will surely be memorable. For everybody who is bored of commercial Japanese fare that keeps popping up every other month in every city, Izumi stands out for their attention to flavour and detail, rich produce and trust in traditional techniques.

Our Picks

– Pork Tonkotsu Ramen

– Prawn Urumaki

– Salmon-Tuna Seared Sashimi

– Hamachi Truffle Ponzu With Wasabi Jelly

Sly Granny, New Delhi

Why?

A smaller outpost (a 38-seater) of the hip Bengaluru joint, Sly Granny retains its quirky charm in this split-level space that is running packed in the upscale Khan Market area. The upstairs section transforms into a cocktail bar at night, while there’s a sumptuous selection of teas in the tearoom downstairs.

 Our Picks 

 – Grilled Peaches And Brie

– Salmon Gravalax – Deconstructed Cheese Toast

– Grilled Fish

– Lamb Chops

 – Biscuits & Gravy

– Sly 9 (nine-layered burger)

Uno Más, Mumbai

Why?

The city has always been lacking in authentic – and grandmotherly – Spanish food but that changed this year. Uno Más is casual and chilled out, perfect for late dinners and long brunches, and exudes the kind of warmth beach shacks and European cafés do – cozy, familiar and heady aromas of memorable meals. Do not forget to check out the cocktail menu, and the desserts are to die for.

OUR PICKS 

– Gambas Al Ajillo

– Chuletitas De Cabra

 – Paella De Marisco (the seafood paella cooked with catch of the day)

 – Torrija (Spanish brioche toast; possibly the best in the city)

The Hong Kong Club, New Delhi

Why?

This tastefully designed split-level restaurant-cum-lounge at the popular Andaz Hotel offers an unparalleled experience. Pick a table for two in a quiet nook upstairs as you watch the chefs at work, or book one of their elegant private dining rooms for an elaborate affair.

Our Picks

 – Steamed Chicken Feet

– Stuffed Quail

– Lobster Crab Spinach Shumai

– Cantonese Chicken

Yi Jing, Hyderabad

 Why?

Hi-Tech City’s ITC Kohenur, which opened earlier this year, is home to a bunch of new restaurants. Yi Jing stands out, for its creative spin on classic dishes from the Hunan and Sichuan provinces.

Our Picks

– Spicy Carrot/Wasabi/Sake and Edamame Dumplings

– Xiao-Long Bao

– Chinese Barbeque (with duck, chicken, lamb and pork options)

 – Madagascar Milk Chocolate.

The Wine Rack, Mumbai

Why?

Let’s be honest – there are very few standalone posh restaurants in the city because, well, Mumbai is all about being casual. But it doesn’t hurt to dress up once in a while, and indulge in great food and an excellent selection of wines and spirits. The brainchild of celebrity chef Sarah Todd, The Wine Rack has a decadent menu, heavily influenced by Indian street food and coastal cuisine, and serves up fresh local produce and meats. The spread’s expansive, and the wine list is enviable (you can also purchase bottles you like).

Our Picks

 – Soft Shell Crab Pakoras

 – Red Wine Duck Kulchas With Gorgonzola

 – Kolhapuri Slow Cooked Lamb

-Goan Pork Sausage Risotto

 – Kashmiri-Style Pork Ribs (with apple wine jam and potatoes)

Sanchez, Bengaluru

Why?

Great Mexican food seems to be rather hard to find in this part of the world, so we’re extra appreciative when someone does a good job of it. A bright, relatively new ‘Taquería and Cantina’, as the name says, Sanchez puts a spin on the humble taco with bold, bursting-with-flavour combinations created right in front of you at the live taco bar.

Our Picks