A new hang-out has cropped up in Mumbai and we are loving its vibe – Architectural Digest India

'The Terrace - A Maiden Affair' is located in Andheri, Mumbai and has been designed by Saniya Kantawala Design

Stepping through the doors of The Terrace A Maiden Affair, a newly opened restaurant in Andheri, Mumbai, one is greeted by a neon sign, Here comes the sun, hinting at a happy, cheerful experience that awaits inside. Pastel shades, jewel-shaped lighting, comfortable seaters upholstered in rich fabrics, an outdoor space with an alluring ambience and more, make this restaurant an instant attraction. The brand, The Terrace, located in Juhu is owned by Karan and Kaushal Shah. They have franchised it to Kaplan and Nishiket Shah and the interiors of the new Andheri outlet have been envisioned by interior designer Saniya Kantawala.

This restaurant is primarily for the millennials and Gen-X; the entire theme and decor for the space includes elements that are attractive to this generation. For me, designing the restaurant and understanding the client brief and bringing it to life was instinctive, as I am a millennial myself; hence, pink has been used in a variety of ways in the space, says Kantawala. The finishes on the walls and the flooring have been kept fairly restrained. The predominant use of soft pink hues are offset by pops of blue, green andorange and the use of brass imparts a sleek finish to the furniture incorporated indoors. Theexposed ceiling is adorned with dainty, jewel-shaped lighting. The bar, positioned centrally within the 2,200-square-feet indoor space is surrounded by seating that includes high bar seating and circular booth seating. Pop art dots the walls, perking up the interiors and adding an element of quirk.

On the other side of the glass partition lies the outdoor seating area (600-square-feet) and is easily the most endearing spot in the restaurant. A centrally positioned light installation sets an ideal tone, with the space being further enhanced by the inclusion of several potted plants. Quirky bent chair plates accessorise the walls of the garden and the seating has been arranged in such a way that it makes one feel like they are amidst an art garden. A swing installed in the garden also lifts the ambience of the space and creates a visual that makes the restaurant photo-worthy, adds Kantawala.

The food is helmed by chef Rajesh Talwar, who has two more restaurants in the works in Doha and The Bahamas. The menu comprises a diverse selection. We tried the delicately spiced Tandoori Indian Machhi, the Golden Prawns, Chicken Sesame Seekh and the flavourful Tandoori stuffed Mushrooms. If you happen to be in the mood for some comfort food, the menu includes Khichdi, a dish most of us crave for every now and then. Named after Kantawala herself, Saniya ka pakaya hua khichdi can be paired with veggies and chicken (yes, you read that correctly!). Go ahead and indulge!

In this age of social media and Instagram, the fascination with posting about our wheres and whens has completely re-defined the process of conceptualising a restaurant and its design, says Kantawala. This understanding has translated effortlessly into a design that spatially renders a simple yet efficient layout, imparts a cheerful and soothing vibe, offers picture perfect backdrops and makes it an ideal spot to catch up with a group of friends. If you are wondering where to head out this weekend, we suggest you give The Terrace in Andheri a try. Who knows it might just end up becoming a regular hang-out spot for you and your friends.

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A new hang-out has cropped up in Mumbai and we are loving its vibe - Architectural Digest India