ZEKI: Andheri’s Earthy Bistro Where Community, Cuisine, and Calm Come Together

Tucked away in the lively streets of Andheri West, Zeki is not your average new restaurant. It’s a thoughtfully designed space where modern European and Mediterranean flavors meet earthy aesthetics and a strong sense of community. Conceptualized by actor-turned-entrepreneur Khushank Arora, Zeki goes beyond being just a place to eat — it’s a full experience that blends food, art, nature, and togetherness under one beautifully built mud house roof.

A Modern Mud House in the City
Walking into Zeki feels like stepping into a different world — far removed from the noise of Mumbai. Inspired by the laid-back charm of destinations like Tulum and Bali, the space is built using cob construction, a sustainable method that incorporates natural materials such as mud, lime, clay, rice husk, banana fiber, and cane sourced from Bali.

The interiors are warm and artistic — think handcrafted pottery, cane lighting shaped like mushrooms and flowers, and cozy corners that invite conversation. At the heart of it all is a stunning mural of a “Mushroom Goddess,” an ode to Mother Earth, quietly watching over the space from the bar area. The bar itself is carved from a single monolithic rock, creating a dramatic yet grounding centerpiece.

With seating for about 60 guests split between indoor and outdoor areas, Zeki is designed for people to relax, gather, and enjoy a slower pace. It’s a calming cocoon in the middle of the city.

Food That’s Conscious, Curated, and Best Shared
The menu at Zeki is compact but well-crafted, focusing on European and Mediterranean dishes. It’s ideal for those who enjoy meat, seafood, and global flavors. While there are a few vegetarian options, the offerings shine brightest for those open to exploring bold, non-Indian plates.

The menu is shaped by Chef Consultant Vidit Aren and executed by Brand Chef Debanshu Mondal, both of whom believe in seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and cooking styles that let those ingredients shine. Roasting, grilling, and sharing form the core of Zeki’s food philosophy.

What We Tried:

• Smoked Jalapeno Hummus with Lamb Kawarma: Tender, spiced lamb served on top of creamy hummus, paired with 24-hour fermented pita, toum, and pickles. Rich, rustic, and packed with flavor.
• Gambas Al Ajillo: A classic Spanish dish of prawns in garlic confit oil, served with sourdough. Simple but deeply satisfying.
• Crispy Shrimp Taco: Fun, crispy, and perfect with a cocktail. The textures and seasoning made this an easy favorite.
• Mezze Platter: A mix of traditional Mediterranean dips like baba ganoush and hummus, served with pita — a great starter or sharing dish.

For Dessert-

• Caramelized Dark Chocolate Mousse: Deep, velvety chocolate paired with toasted hazelnuts and raspberry coulis — indulgent and comforting.
• Mango Mascarpone Trifle: Light and fruity, with layers of ripe mango and smooth mascarpone. A summer dessert done right.

Cocktails With Character and Theatre
If Zeki’s kitchen is expressive, its bar is downright dramatic. Here, cocktails are not just mixed — they’re performed. Bartenders build each drink like a mini work of art, often adding spice perfumes or final flourishes at the counter for added drama. Each cocktail tells a story and reflects Zeki’s earthy, crafted aesthetic.

Favorites from the Bar-

• Mudstone: A bold whisky-based drink with dates, bitters, and a smoky cinnamon finish. It’s rich and warming — almost like sipping a cozy bonfire.
• ZEN: A serene mix of blue pea-infused gin, Lillet Blanc, elderflower, and orange bitters. Floral, delicate, and very photogenic.
• Lilac Breeze: Lavender and pineapple-infused tequila topped with a chocolate-coconut foam. Sweet, tropical, and unlike anything you’ve tasted before.
• Citrus Caravan: Grapefruit gin, Aperol, honey, and a kick of jalapeno, topped with sparkling bubbles. Bright and adventurous — just like its name suggests.

Final Verdict
Zeki offers something rare in Mumbai — a dining destination that’s soulful, grounded, and immersive. The food is flavorful, the drinks are artistic, and the space feels like a gentle escape from everyday life. While the menu leans heavily toward non-vegetarian dishes, it’s a must-visit for those who love trying new cuisines, savoring slow meals, and appreciating design that speaks to the soul.

It’s not just a restaurant. It’s a reminder to slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment.