If an avocado toast is your go-to choice at a cafe, you will love Abokado. This Japanese-inspired cafe is nestled in the bustling bylanes of Bandra and avocado is the star of the show! This cafe is said to introduce the concept of micro dining to Mumbai with its 12-seater intimate experience. Abokado is a portal to a small cafe in Japan and literally means Avocado in Japanese.
Abokado is the brainchild of co-founder Varun Kapoor and chef/co-founder Mitesh Rangras. Chef Rangras is the force behind Juhu’s Tango Tamari which is known for its modern Asian food inspired by the Nikkei cuisine.
Avocado toast and beyond
Chef Rangras showcases his culinary prowess by combining Asian flavours and influences and also to come up with unique innovations of avocado dishes. The menu has small plates, sharing plates, beverage options and desserts for both, vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners. “At Abokado,” says Chef Rangras, “we celebrate the versatility of the avocados by fusing Japanese and global flavours. Our menu, from the vibrant Avocado Toast, to the invention Sapporo Slider, showcases our commitment to innovation. By sourcing ingredients locally and blending traditional Japanese techniques with creamy avocado, we craft dishes that surprise and delight,” he states.
Photos: Abokado
Besides the avocado toast, do try their Abokado Hummus which is complemented by edamame, chilli crunch and pink dragon fruit, Salmon Carpaccio Salad, Avocado and multiple types of Sushi, Tuna Tartare with unagi sauce, Sapporo Slider with katsu, Abokado nuggets, Miso Mushroom Chilli rice bowl or the Katsu Chilli Chicken option for the non-vegetarians.
Abokado also has an extensive beverage menu ranging from their organic pour-over coffee, and hot teas to matcha, kombucha, and other refreshing drinks such as a Lavender Lemonade and a Hibiscus Mint Iced Tea. However, it is their dessert category that caught our eye! Choose between (or have them all, we won’t judge) a Griddled Choco Chip Cookie, The Mango Yuzu Mousse Cage with Matcha Joconde, or the Wasabi Ice Cream served in a cone for the ones looking for bold and adventurous flavours.
A peak into Japanese aesthetics
The interior has a soothing green palette and minimalist decor to create a peaceful atmosphere that transports the diners from the busy streets of Bandra to a quaint little cafe in Tokyo. The interiors have been crafted by designer Shama Shah and the minimalist decor draws inspiration from traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring clean lines, natural materials and a harmonious balance of light and shadow. Wooden furniture, their take on a communal table, and delicate paper lanterns create an intimate experience for the diner.
Photo: Abokado
“[At Abokado], we’ve created more than just a dining space,” says Kapoor. “It is a culinary sanctuary where the concept of micro-dining comes to life. Here, every meal is intimate, every interaction is meaningful, and every flavour is unforgettable,” Kapoor concludes.
