From festive feasts to lively brunches, HELLO! India's 25+ restaurants to dine at for Diwali 2026

Diwali is a time for coming together, sharing a meal and making memories with the people who matter. Whether you’re planning a leisurely brunch, a festive family dinner or a lively evening with friends, restaurants across India offer plenty of ways to celebrate around the table. From special Diwali menus and indulgent Indian feasts to contemporary Pan-Asian spreads and music-led gatherings, HELLO! India picks the best restaurants across the country which bring their own flavour to the season of togetherness.

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1. Alta Stella, Mumbai

This Diwali, Alta Stella invites guests to bring family and friends together over a special festive brunch. With indulgent dining, warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere, the restaurant offers a setting for a leisurely afternoon of good food and conversation. A fitting choice for those looking to celebrate the season of togetherness around a table.

2. Sweeney, Mumbai

For a relaxed festive catch-up, Sweeney brings a Thai-inspired twist to the traditional brunch. Its Sunday Thai Brunch features Bangkok-inspired breakfast plates, seafood, crispy bites and desserts such as Mango Sticky Rice 2.0 and Thai Tea French Toast. A Thai-inspired Spritz Bar and Mango Sticky Rice Waffle Cart add to the experience, while melodic house beats set the mood in the garden. The restaurant’s Sweeney Garden Sessions also spotlight female DJs, singers, musicians and performers, making it a lively option for a festive gathering with friends.

3. Eve, Mumbai

Eve, Santacruz, embraces the festive season with special Diwali décor, a curated menu and a sweet collaboration with Meethi Elaichi. From 3 to 21 November, floral installations, cane baskets, red and mustard-gold drapes, marigold accents and candlelit details create a warm, celebratory setting. The Diwali menu brings together a mix of familiar favourites and indulgent flavours, including Eve Croquettes, Butter Garlic Prawns, Cream Cheese Chicken, and Mapo Tofu with Burnt Garlic Rice. For dessert, the Rasmalai Tres Leches and Gianduja Mousse offer a sweet finish. From 6 to 8 November, a Meethi Elaichi cart at the entrance adds a festive gifting experience, with contemporary Indian sweets such as Aam Badaam Mithai Macaroon, Coconut Red Velvet Laddoo, Coffee Almond Burfi and Walnut Burfi. Guests can sample the selection and pick up thoughtfully packaged boxes for loved ones.

4. SALT Indian Restaurant Bar & Grill, Across India

SALT Indian Restaurant Bar & Grill brings the spirit of Diwali to the table with a special menu available across its outlets. The menu features Choti Plates and Badi Plates, with dishes such as Dahi Masala Bombs, Pappu’s Potli Bomb, Peri Peri Paneer Cigar, Chicken Cafreal Croquettes and Malwani Prawn Phuljhadi. For the main course, Paneer Pasanda Shahi and Kashmiri Dum Aloo offer comforting, indulgent flavours, while Mewe Makhane ki Kheer and Tender Coconut & White Chocolate Kulfi bring the meal to a sweet close. A festive drinks selection completes the experience. Lal Chingari combines hibiscus and kokum with gin, while Shaam-e-Diwali brings together roasted fig, dark rum and black tea. Dhamaka offers a spiced whisky-based option, while Phuljhari and Garlands provide refreshing non-alcoholic alternatives.

5. Millo, Mumbai

For a festive meal in a welcoming setting, Millo brings together warm lighting, floral accents and contemporary vegetarian dining. Oversized orange and white floral installations, fairy lights and candlelit details lend the restaurant a celebratory atmosphere, making it an inviting choice for a family dinner or a catch-up with friends. Its contemporary vegetarian menu features comforting Indian favourites such as Cottage Cheese Twists with Sundried Tomato Olive Naan, Cheese Kofta, Paneer Rogani, Dal Makhani, Tini Mini and Sali Bhurjee. Gulab Jamun Rabdi and Kulfi Rabdi offer a familiar, indulgent finish. With its festive décor and comforting menu, Millo is a lovely option for those looking to celebrate over a leisurely meal.

6. Deck 88, The Astor Goa

For those looking to celebrate Diwali with a change of scenery, Deck 88 at The Astor Goa offers a relaxed setting for a festive escape. Located within the all-suite boutique hotel in Candolim, the restaurant brings together globally inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and Goa’s laid-back charm. Whether it’s a leisurely meal with family, a special dinner with friends or part of a longer festive getaway, Deck 88 offers an inviting backdrop for reconnecting and enjoying the season at a slower pace.

7. Oye Kake, Bengaluru

A celebration of Punjabi hospitality, Oye Kake is a natural fit for a big, boisterous Diwali meal with family and friends. The 100 per cent vegetarian restaurant marks 15 years of bringing the flavours of Punjab to the table. Rooted in the traditions of langar, street food and the Punjabi home kitchen, Oye Kake celebrates generous portions and familiar comfort. Following its Bengaluru debut on MG Road in April 2026, the restaurant has opened a second address at EcoWorld, Bellandur, offering another setting for a festive gathering over Punjabi favourites.

8. Bombay Brasserie, Mumbai

Bombay Brasserie reimagines Indian dining through a contemporary brasserie lens, bringing regional influences and nostalgic flavours to a lively setting. Its shareable plates make it an appealing choice for festive lunches, family dinners and catch-ups with friends. The menu offers a culinary journey across India, with dishes such as Aam Papad Paneer, inspired by Amritsar’s beloved aam papad; Prawn Thecha, bringing Maharashtra’s fiery flavours to the plate; and Gunpowder Potatoes, a take on South Indian flavours with milagai podi and curry leaf cream. Seven Sisters Chicken Skewers draw on the flavours of Northeast India, while Kashmiri Naan Kebab and Franco Tamil Fish celebrate the culinary traditions of Kashmir and Pondicherry. With its modern interpretations of regional dishes and lively atmosphere, Bombay Brasserie offers a festive meal that feels both familiar and refreshingly different.

9. Goonj – Indian Food House, Bengaluru

Goonj – Indian Food House celebrates Diwali with a specially curated menu that brings together traditional Indian flavours and contemporary touches. The festive spread begins with starters such as Chakunder Akhrot Ki Seekh, Peshawari Paneer Tikka and Murgh Gilafee Kebab. For the main course, guests can choose from Paneer Pasanda, Dal Bukhara, Gosht Korma and Murgh Mussallam. The dessert selection includes Angoori Rasmalai, Zafrani Phirni and Gulab Aur Kala Jamun, while the drinks menu features signature cocktails such as Gulal, Saffron, Nazakat and Jugalbandhi, alongside festive mocktails inspired by pomegranate, rose, saffron, jasmine and seasonal ingredients. With its mix of Indian flavours, celebratory drinks and indulgent desserts, Goonj offers a setting for a memorable Diwali meal with loved ones.

10. Gulmurg, Mumbai

With a legacy dating back to 1962, Gulmurg has long been part of Mumbai’s dining culture, bringing generations together over generous Indian meals. This Diwali, the restaurant offers a festive spread of chaats, kebabs, curries, freshly prepared breads, rice and classic desserts, making it a natural choice for a family gathering. The vegetarian selection includes Palak Patta Chaat, Agra Aloo Tikki, Dahi Ke Kebab, Classic Kadhai Paneer, Amritsari Chole and Dal Makhani. The non-vegetarian offerings include Lucknowi Mutton Galouti, Murg Tangri Kebab, Dum Ka Murg, Tawa Keema and Prawn Ghee Roast. Malai Kulfi and Gulab Jamun round off the meal.

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11. HyLo, Mumbai

For those looking to take their Diwali celebrations into the evening, HyLo in Kala Ghoda hosts Raya’s Roof | Diwali Edition on Saturday, 7 November 2026, from 5 pm onwards. The music-led gathering brings together festive sundowners, drinks and an energetic night out in the heart of Mumbai. The line-up features Takeshi, Badtrip, Dhiraaj, Shlok Chiplunkar and Kimeraa, alongside Raya and a few surprises. Located in a restored pre-Independence building, HyLo combines contemporary bar culture with a distinctly local sensibility, offering a lively setting for friends looking to celebrate the season with music and good company.

12. Saffron, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

Saffron brings the grandeur of an erstwhile royal darbar to the Diwali table with specially designed vegetarian and non-vegetarian set menus. The experience draws on the elaborate feasts and gracious hospitality associated with Awadh’s royal dining traditions. The vegetarian menu features Dahi Akhrot Ke Kebab, Rahra Beet Paneer and Noor Mahal Biryani, while the non-vegetarian selection includes Gosht Ki Galouti, Gosht Ki Nihari and Gosht Dum Biryani. Both menus conclude with mini ghewar served with nolen gur ice cream and kale gajar ka halwa. Candlelit tables, gilded accents, the delicate fragrance of ittar and live classical music create an atmosphere inspired by a royal court, making the meal an occasion in itself.

13. Susegado, The St. Regis Goa Resort

Susegado at The St. Regis Goa Resort welcomes Diwali with a three-day culinary showcase in collaboration with Aasmana, the award-winning rooftop Indian restaurant from The Ritz-Carlton Pune. Taking place from 6 to 8 November 2026, the experience brings contemporary Indian cuisine and festive flavours to the resort’s beachfront setting. The showcase features chef-curated small plates, signature kebabs, regional specialities and indulgent desserts, accompanied by live music. On 8 November, the celebrations culminate in a festive barbecue dinner and a fire show, offering a memorable way to mark the season with family and friends.

14. The Bareekk Experience, InterContinental Marine Drive, Mumbai

Marking a new chapter for Kebab Korner, affectionately known as KK, The Bareekk Experience brings more than five decades of culinary legacy into a contemporary dining setting. Founded in 1971, Kebab Korner has long been known for the robust flavours of Old Delhi, Amritsar and Lahore. Its reimagined space at InterContinental Marine Drive retains the dishes and traditions that have made it a Mumbai institution, while introducing a renewed dining room, an intimate bar and a lantern-lit terrace overlooking the Arabian Sea. The menu continues to honour the restaurant’s heritage, with the much-loved KK Dal Makhani, simmered for 24 hours, and Mutton Seekh Kebab remaining central to the experience. Under Head Chef Mayank Kannauji, the culinary offering spans small plates such as Cold Shakarkandi Chaat with miso saunth chutney and Jaipuri Bhindi with chhonk waali dahi dip, alongside tandoor, sigdi and tawa preparations. Highlights include wood-fired Paneer-e-Khaas, Saunfiya Salmon Tikka, Lamb Shank Nihari, Gucchi Yakhni and Lobster Pepper Masala. Familiar Indian desserts receive a contemporary treatment, too, with Khasta Rasmalai beneath flaky pastry and a reimagined Motichoor Laddoo.

15. FOO, Across India

FOO brings a Pan-Asian spread to Diwali celebrations with a specially curated festive brunch across its outlets. The menu begins with soups and salads, followed by favourites such as Salmon Truffle Maki, Wasabi, Truffle & Edamame Dumpling and FOO Chilli Chicken. FOO Yellow Curry and Blue Butter Japanese Fried Rice bring a hearty finish to the savoury spread, while Mango Cheesecake and Snickerz Nut Crunch offer a sweet ending. With plenty to choose from, FOO’s Diwali brunch is an invitation to gather over distinctive flavours and generous plates.

16. Escobar, Mumbai

With Diwali around the corner, Escobar in Bandra, is bringing a festive sparkle to Mumbai’s dining and nightlife scene with a special Diwali Soirée from November 6–8. The celebrations pair festive cocktails, indulgent desserts and an elegant setting, making it an inviting choice for a seasonal catch-up or an evening out with friends. The specially curated Diwali Cocktail Collection features four signature creations: 24 Karat, Gulabi Nights, Midnight in Mumbai and The Diwali Spark, each bringing its own festive character to the bar. For those with a sweet tooth, the Diwali Dessert Collection includes Saffron and Pistachio Tiramisu, The Golden Sphere, and Rose and Rabri Cheesecake.

17. Kaanan, The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa, New Chandigarh

Set amidst 8,000 acres of protected forest and overlooking a tranquil water body, Kaanan at The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa offers an idyllic setting for festive gatherings. Meaning 'a place of abundance and harmony', the restaurant celebrates Punjab's culinary heritage through treasured household recipes and forgotten regional flavours. Its menu features signature preparations such as Amritsari Chole with kulcha, Dal Kaanan slow-braised with butter and clove smoke, Punjabi Kadhi Pakora, Khatta Meetha Murgh Musallam, Raan and Gucchi Kofta Curry. Desserts such as Kaanan Gulab Jamun, Phirni and Rabri Cheesecake provide a fitting finale. With elegant indoor seating and al fresco dining overlooking the Siswan Forest, Kaanan makes for a memorable setting for festive lunches and intimate family dinners.

18. Masque, Mumbai

Nestled within one of Mumbai's old textile mills, Masque is an ingredient-driven restaurant founded by entrepreneur Aditi Dugar, with Head Chef Varun Totlani helming the kitchen. Known for its innovative approach to Indian gastronomy, the restaurant offers 10-course chef's tasting menus that marry tradition with contemporary techniques. Evolving with the seasons, the menus spotlight ingredients sourced from local farmers, independent producers and foraging trips, placing emphasis on provenance and craftsmanship. For those looking to make Diwali celebrations a little different, Masque offers an immersive gastronomic experience that takes diners beyond conventional festive dining.

19. INDY by Q'la, New Delhi

Located in Malviya Nagar, INDY by Q'la reimagines familiar Indian flavours through a contemporary culinary lens. Pairing a thoughtfully curated menu with creative cocktails and sophisticated interiors, the restaurant offers an inviting setting for festive brunches and celebratory evenings. Its approach to Indian cuisine brings together familiar culinary influences with modern interpretations, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed Diwali gathering with friends and family over distinctive flavours and conversations.

20. Aangan Reloaded, Hyatt Regency Delhi 

 

Returning for the cooler months from October through March, Aangan Reloaded at Hyatt Regency Delhi brings back the pleasure of dining beneath open skies in the hotel's lush gardens. Curated by Chef Anil Khurana, the menu celebrates India's regional culinary traditions through tandoor specialities, kebabs, curries and slow-cooked biryanis. Highlights include Bharwan Gucchi, Khumani Paneer Tikka, Mutton Makhmali Boti, Lehsuni Jhinga and Raan-e-Aangan, alongside Gucchi Methi Malai Mutter, Gosht Nihari, Dal Makhani and Butter Chicken. An assortment of freshly prepared Indian breads and Gosht, Murgh and Subz Dum Biryani complete the spread. Traditional desserts such as Jalebi Rabri, Gur ki Rasmalai and Gajjar ka Halwa make for a nostalgic finish to a festive evening under the stars.

21. Burma Burma, Delhi NCR 

Burma Burma's limited-edition menu, Across Borders: Journeys From India to Burma, available from November 1 to December 15, 2026, celebrates the culinary connections between the two countries. Tracing the journeys of traders, sailors and migrant communities between Indian port cities and Yangon, the menu brings together dishes shaped by generations of cultural exchange. Highlights include Spiced Guava Salad, Gone Yi Street Salad, Samoza Kari, Khao Sa, Burma Roti and Sailor's Curry Palata. The experience continues with desserts such as Shwe Pu Faluda and Jaggery & Rice Pudding, alongside distinctive beverages including Mont Let Saung and Sattu Caramel Cooler. Available across Burma Burma restaurants in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chandigarh, the menu offers a fascinating way to discover how food carries stories and traditions across borders.

22. Nadoo, New Delhi and Gurugram  

Located in Greater Kailash III and Gurugram, Nadoo brings the diverse culinary traditions of South India to Delhi through a menu that goes beyond the familiar dosa and idli repertoire. Helmed by Chef Shri Bala and restaurateur Sahil Sambhi, the restaurant explores regional cuisines spanning Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. From Cucumber Kosambari and Bengaluru-style Masala Puri to Curry Leaf Lobster, Chettinad-inspired preparations and traditional biryanis, the menu celebrates the region's rich culinary heritage with a contemporary sensibility. With its earthy interiors and thoughtfully curated dining experience, Nadoo makes for an interesting choice for a festive gathering centred around regional Indian flavours.

23. Yyaki, Gurugram

For those looking to explore something beyond conventional festive dining, Yyaki at Japonico, Gurugram, offers an exclusive counter-dining experience centred around duck. Conceived by restaurateur Sahil Sambhi and Chef Roberto Blondi, the restaurant presents an elaborate nine-course tasting menu exploring the ingredient through different cuts, textures and cooking techniques. From duck-skin nigiri and duck breast to inventive interpretations such as duck ice cream, each course offers an unexpected culinary discovery. Complemented by thoughtfully paired cocktails and an intimate dining setting, Yyaki makes for a distinctive choice for a special Diwali celebration with fellow food enthusiasts. 

24. Louve, New Delhi

Set in the heart of Lutyens' Delhi on Humayun Road, Louve is a chef-led dining destination that brings together modern European cuisine and contemporary Chinese flavours under one roof. Envisioned by restaurateur Shikha Begwani, the restaurant features a European menu led by Chef Selim Fidan, drawing on French and Italian culinary techniques, alongside an Asian offering by Chef Phankri Bey. The experience is complemented by signature cocktails crafted by Head Mixologist Vasile Dorofeev, with creations inspired by moods, memories and personal philosophies. With its elegant interiors, garden-facing gazebos and thoughtfully curated menus, Louve offers a refined setting for a celebratory Diwali lunch or an intimate evening with friends and family. 

25. Royal China, New Delhi 

This Diwali, Royal China Delhi presents The Art of Gathering, inviting guests to celebrate togetherness over thoughtfully prepared Chinese cuisine, signature cocktails and memorable conversations. The menu features favourites such as Har Gow Dumplings, Steamed Prawn Dumplings, Chicken Shanghai Soup Dumplings, Burnt Garlic Prawns and Vegetable Lettuce Wraps. For the main course, guests can savour Chicken in Chilli Oil and Spring Onion, Braised Fish in Chilli and Black Bean Sauce, Edamame and Garlic Fried Rice and Burnt Chilli Garlic Noodles. Chocolate Mud Cake and Sticky Toffee Pudding bring the meal to a sweet close, while a specially curated cocktail selection adds to the festive experience. With refined interiors and warm hospitality, Royal China offers an elegant setting for family lunches and evenings with friends.

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