This year for Valentine’s Day, Vikhroli Cucina asked Shilpa Chawla for her top picks for Mumbai’s most captivating culinary destinations. Among these, the most unmissable is the ongoing Fondue Festival at Out of The Blue, Khar – a perfect escapade for your Valentine’s Day date, running only until the 14th. What better way to spend a chilly February Valentine’s night than with fondue on the side?

Cafe Out of the Blue: Dip into Decadence at the Fondue Festival

Khar

FONDUE FESTIVAL: FEBRUARY 14

Celebrating 25 years of culinary innovation, Cafe Out of the Blue unveiled its Fondue Festival from January 20 to February 14 (Perfect for a Valentine’s Day Date Night!) Known for introducing fondue to India—transforming it into a cozy date night staple—the festival features an irresistible array of savory and sweet creations.

Founder Rahul Bajaj recalls,

"We were one of the first to teach people how to have fondue. From person-to-person introductions to launching innovative fondues like our world-first Tiramisu Fondue, every creation is designed to evoke memories, closeness, and that unique vibe only fondue can offer."

Highlights from the menu include:

• Chocolate Fondues:
  • Tiramisu Fondue: Dark chocolate infused with tiramisu flavors, paired with finger biscuits, fresh fruits, and tea cake.
  • Double Dark Fondue: Decadent Vanhouten dark chocolate with brownie bites, fresh fruits, and tea cake.
  • Salted Caramel Fondue: Creamy Callebaut gold chocolate with salted caramel, served with a tempting selection of brownies, fruits, and tea cake.
  • Baileys Fondue: A luscious blend of Vanhouten dark chocolate and Baileys.

• Cheese Fondues:
  • Crispy Bacon Fondue: A heavenly blend of cheese with crispy bacon bits.
  • Crab et Homard Fondue: A luxurious mélange of Gruyere and Emmenthal cheeses, served with crab cakes, sourdough croutons, and sautéed vegetables.
  • Swiss Cheese Fondue: A classic mix of Swiss cheese and Grover, served with crispy sourdough croutons and sautéed vegetables.
  • Desi Fondue: A bold, curry-based fondue bursting with spices and cheese, paired with sautéed vegetables.
  • Cracked Pepper Fondue: A zesty mix of homemade spice, Emmenthal, and cheddar.
  • Peri-Peri Fondue: A fiery, bold Mexican-inspired twist.
  • J.D. Melting Pot Fondue: Sharp cheddar meets Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, served with pretzels, sourdough croutons, and sautéed vegetables.
  • Curry Leaf Fondue: A chef’s masterpiece featuring fragrant curry leaf pesto, served with sourdough croutons and sautéed vegetables.

Join the festivity at Cafe Out of the Blue in Khar and get ready for a flavour adventure that you’ll be talking about for years to come!

Luv: Savor the Flavors of Love

Andheri

Top Picks: Burrata, Persimmon & Cherry, Aloo Leaf & Lemongrass Beurre Blanc with Charred Corn-Stuffed Chilli, Sea Bass Roulade with Beurre Blanc, Butter-Poached Persimmon & Passion Fruit Mousse

Luv is a vibrant new dining destination in the heart of Andheri, and they are set to celebrate love with an exclusive Valentine’s Day menu available from February 13 to February 16, 2025. Curated by brothers Luv Deshpande and Chef Akash Deshpande, this thoughtfully crafted menu promises a memorable culinary experience.

Start your meal with appetizers such as the Burrata, Persimmon & Cherry—a delightful pairing of creamy burrata with sweet, fruity notes— or the Charred Veg Dumpling with Broth, featuring smoky vegetable dumplings in a light, comforting broth. For non-vegetarian diners, the bold flavors of the Crab Masala & Pav (a delicious twist on the Mumbai classic with soft, buttered pav) await.

For the main course, vegetarians can enjoy the unique Aloo Leaf & Lemongrass Beurre Blanc with Charred Corn-Stuffed Chilli, a fusion of earthy and zesty flavors with a spicy twist. Non-vegetarian options include the delicate Sea Bass Roulade with Beurre Blanc and the indulgent Chicken Wellington—succulent chicken encased in flaky puff pastry, served with a luxurious red wine reduction.

Finish your meal on a sweet note with the Butter-Poached Persimmon & Passion Fruit Mousse, perfectly balancing richness with tang. Signature beverages like Book Me an Uber and Your Place or Mine add a playful yet sophisticated touch to the celebration.

Set in a cozy yet vibrant ambiance, Luv isn’t just a dining destination—it’s a sanctuary where relationships and food create unforgettable experiences. Reserve your table now and make this Valentine’s Day truly special!

Mazi: A Cozy Escape for Culinary Connection

Bandra

Top Picks: Tiramisu Coffee

Mazi is a beloved spot known for its homely vibe and consistently impressive offerings. A place Shilpa returns to time and again, Mazi is where artisanal coffee meets globally inspired-cuisine.
Top favorites include the Tiramisu Coffee, which takes you on a journey to another world, the Hummus Platter—a reliable go-to during meetings—and the irresistible Cheesecake that wraps up the experience perfectly.

Owned by Shashank Kadam, Chinmay Shetye, and Chef Mohnish Kothare, Mazi derives its name from the Greek word for “together.” It embodies the spirit of connection, community, and shared experiences. At Mazi Coffee Bar and Kitchen, the focus is on bringing people closer—whether over a carefully brewed cup of coffee, a plate of soulful, comforting dishes, or simply the joy of being in a space that feels like home.

Chef Mohnish Kothare recommends trying the Mumbai Lamb Kheema Toast—a true reflection of Mumbai’s essence on a plate—as well as the Burrata Kale Salad, a creamy, perfectly balanced dish, and the ever-popular Tiramisu Cappuccino.

Whether you're celebrating milestones, unwinding after a long day, or sparking creativity, Mazi is more than just a café—it’s where flavors, cultures, and people come together in harmony.

The Dim Sum Room

Kala Ghoda, Fort.

Top Picks: Lobster Hargov; Roast Lamb with House Special Sauce

At The Dim Sum Room, every dish is a masterpiece that makes choosing a favorite nearly impossible! From delectable dim sums and indulgent desserts to signature cocktails, every bite and sip is infused with magic.

The ambiance is pure perfection. Whether you’re unwinding in the Listening Room or soaking in stunning terrace views, the vibe is all about great energy, company, and unforgettable moments.

As founder Mayank puts it,

"The Dim Sum Room is more than a restaurant; it’s an exploration of how sound and flavor can create unforgettable memories. We’ve drawn from the vibrancy of Hong Kong and the charm of Kala Ghoda to craft an experience that’s deeply rooted in both place and tradition. The food and beverage offerings are thoughtfully curated to blend authenticity with innovation—delivering bold, unexpected flavors that leave a lasting impression. From meticulously crafted dim sums to signature cocktails inspired by Hong Kong’s rich tea house and nightlife traditions, every element has been designed to take guests on a sensory journey. The Listening Room further elevates the ambiance, offering guests a unique blend of music that complements the dining experience."

This is a must-visit spot in Kala Ghoda—head there before the secret’s out!

HyLo: A Celebration of Hyperlocal Indian Flavor

Top Picks: Green Thetcha Prawns, Shahi Chicken Shorba

HyLo in Kala Ghoda is redefining comfort food with a focus on hyperlocal Indian cuisine that evokes a sense of nostalgia. With every dish, you experience a heritage of authentic, home-cooked flavors presented in an inviting, cozy setting.

Owner Mayank Bhat shares his vision:

"HyLo is dedicated to building a food and drinks community that honors local produce and food cultures, blending them with the philosophy of HYperLOcal Indian cuisine. Our signature cocktails celebrate creativity and local flavors while also paying homage to classic cocktails with their rich history and balance."

Head Chef Swati Harsha adds:

"HyLo is our canvas to celebrate the stories, traditions, and flavors that define India’s culinary soul. Each dish is inspired by our journey through India—from heirloom recipes in village kitchens to blending the simplicity of home-cooked meals with modern sophistication. At HyLo, we don’t just serve food; we serve memories and connections."

A must-visit for anyone seeking authentic flavors and creative culinary experiences!

Indulge in unforgettable dining experiences at these handpicked gems—each offers a unique blend of ambiance and flavours. Which one are you trying first?

But that’s not all! As a little extra special surprise, here are some other must-try places in Mumbai that should be on your list on Valentine’s Day, each with their own exclusive menu, suited for the occasion!

So, if you’re in the mood to hop around, explore everything’s that happening in town, we’ve got two on our mind –

Lyla, BKC, is doing ‘Valentine’s Special Pours’ featuring some of the headiest cocktails. Our pick? The Love Spell Gin with Vermouth and Sparkling Wine, to cast a spell and enchant your evening.

For those with a sweet-tooth, head to Gigi a Bombay, Bandra, one of the most happening places in town, with a décor and boudoir to die for! Try their Noir Miso Raspberry for that ‘something’ dark and praline-tinged.

But if you’re in the mood for a one-stop destination and want to be seated for an ‘8-course’ meal, Eight, Palladium, Lower Parel, is hosting a Valentine's Special soiree, starting with a glass of sparkling wine and salmon nilgiri on arrival. And their cocktail offerings? You'd be spoilt for choice — Vodka, triple sec and pomegranate or gin, lavender and simple good ol' ale?

So, which one will it be? Let us know in the comments!