Qualia, Rahul and Malini Akerkar’s newest restaurant, is situated within the upscale podium of the Lodha World One Towers in the culinary hub of Mumbai – Lower Parel. This 100-seater eatery dishes out modern, cuisine-agnostic creations, made with unexpected combinations of locally sourced ingredients, balanced flavour profiles, and a lot of heart.

Grilled Eggplant Pizza, burrata, mint pesto, pickled raisins

“There is no substitute.” This line, straight out of the 1983 Tom Cruise-starrer ‘Risky Business’, fits perfectly in today’s post-covid recovery phase for restaurants in India. We have put behind us prolonged days of staying home, memorizing menus and eating out of paper-pack boxes because nothing can compare to a cozy evening, settled in a chic alfresco setting, dining with friends and family.

The F&B industry in Mumbai and the entire country, have taken a battering for months now due to the seismic shockwaves caused by the coronavirus reverberating through the globe. It has not only left the culinary explorer in two minds, physically but mentally too, questioning the very need to step out and put oneself at risk. However, droves of people, growing by the day now, tired of being cooped up, are willing to don facemasks, carry hand sanitizers and head to their favourite eateries, outdoors.

Qualia's impressive interiors

Bookings have surged, restaurants are getting full with ‘social distancing’ and other measures in place, smiles are back, and normal service has almost resumed. It felt good to be dining at this relaxed, high-street, upscale alfresco setting at Qualia in Lower Parel, Mumbai.

The Bar at Qualia

Inside, a grand space, designed by architect Kapil Gupta, greets you. High-ceilings, a 100-feet high glass frontage, a bar lined with pickled jars, all come together to create a sensorial experience. This brings the name ‘Qualia’ to life, which is about qualities that are perceived by a person. While the restaurant may feel grand, it exudes a relaxed, casual, and comfortable homely ambience.