Imagine stepping into a world where every bite tells a story of Himalayan valleys and every sip feels like royalty. That’s exactly what Kriti Saxena Agarwal, our favorite lifestyle explorer, found at Loya, the dazzling new restaurant at the Taj Mahal Palace & Towers, Mumbai. Nestled in this century-old icon, Loya is serving up North Indian cuisine like you’ve never tasted before — think Uttarakhand’s white Rajma and Kashmir’s morel pulao, paired with cocktails that scream sophistication. Kriti sat down with Taljinder Singh, the Brand Custodian, to spill the chai on what makes Loya the ultimate lifestyle destination for 2025. Ready for a flavor-packed adventure? Let’s go!
A North Indian Feast Like No Other
Loya isn’t your average Mumbai restaurant — it’s a love letter to North India, crafted with rare ingredients and age-old techniques. Kriti was blown away by the menu, which skips the usual butter chicken for bold dishes from Uttarakhand, Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. “I tried the Daal ki Chaat from Kangra, and it was like a flavor party in my mouth!” she gushed. Other highlights? The Korea Gosht, a Pahadi mutton curry with hand-ground char walnut, and the Bhuji Kala Moti Pulao, a Kashmiri morel mushroom pulao paired with zesty Ori raita.
What’s the secret sauce? Ingredients like Lakhori chili, Bangjeera, and Ori mustard, sourced straight from their origins. Taljinder shared, “Our chefs traveled to remote villages, learning from locals to perfect every recipe.” Whether it’s the smoky Tandoor or slow-cooked Dum method, each dish feels like a warm hug from the mountains — perfect for foodies craving something new.
Kriti Chats with Taljinder: The Heart of Loya
Kriti got the inside scoop from Taljinder Singh, the Brand Custodian at Taj Mahal Hotels. “Loya’s only three years old, but it’s built on generations of stories,” he revealed. “We dug into ancestral kitchens, from grandparents’ recipes to forgotten spices, to bring authenticity to every bite.” He pointed out the decor, where stone carvings mimic five Himalayan rivers and vibrant fabrics echo the region’s energy. “Even our napkins and uniforms reflect that vibrancy — it’s all connected,” he added with a smile.
Kriti couldn’t stop raving about the little details, like Punjab’s glassy goblets and black clay lumpy cleaves on every table. “It’s like dining in a cultural treasure chest!” she said. For lifestyle lovers, Loya’s ambiance is a vibe — think Instagram-worthy elegance meets cozy heritage, ideal for date nights or chic brunches.
Cocktails That Redefine Luxury Dining
If you thought Indian food and cocktails don’t mix, Loya’s bar will change your mind. Kriti sipped on a cocktail infused with Himalayan spices and was hooked. “It’s bold, unique, and totally elevates the meal,” she said. Taljinder explained, “Our drinks use local ingredients you won’t find elsewhere — nobody can copy this!” From vibrant mixes to subtle infusions, the cocktail menu is a must-try for Mumbai’s trendsetters.
“Loya proves Indian cuisine and cocktails are a match made in heaven,” Taljinder added. Whether you’re a mixology fan or just love a good drink, these creations make Loya a hotspot for 2025’s lifestyle scene.
Why Loya’s Your Next Mumbai Must-Visit
For Kriti, Loya was more than a meal — it was an experience. “It’s perfect for anyone who loves food, culture, and a touch of luxury,” she said. The Taj Mahal Palace & Towers has always been a Mumbai legend, and Loya adds a fresh chapter with its Himalayan charm. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night out, a family feast, or a solo treat-yo-self moment, this place delivers.
Ready to taste the Himalayas in Mumbai? Book your table at Loya and let your senses soar. Share your foodie plans in the comments, and keep sipping the latest lifestyle scoops with Chai And Churan!
Check out feature video on Kriti’s visit to Loya at the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai below