Evolving Dining Scene in Gurugram: A Focus on Experience and Ambience

Gurugram’s dining scene continues to evolve with thoughtfully designed spaces that prioritise experience as much as flavour. From immersive tasting menus and soulful regional kitchens to community cafés and globally inspired comfort food, these new openings reflect a shift toward slower, more intentional dining. The focus is no longer on excess, but on ambience, craft, and conversations that linger over good food and drinks. Whether you’re looking for a serene café, an elegant dinner setting, or a place to unwind with inventive cocktails, these fresh addresses offer something for every mood and moment in the city. Singh Sahib unveils Mehr-o-Mah, a destination that re-envisions calm, considered dining in Gurugram, bringing the romance of royal India to life through design, ritual, and cuisine. Inspired by centuries-old mirror-work craftsmanship, Mehr-o-Mah is an intimate, candle-lit space crafted with lakhs of hand-set mirror fragments that softly refract light, creating an atmosphere of quiet splendour where time seems to slow down. Designed as a destination for immersive dining, Mehr-o-Mah offers a thoughtfully curated five-course chef’s tasting, pre-set menu, ceremonial in spirit and indulgent in execution. The menu journeys through layered flavours and regional nuances, featuring signatures such as Sahjan ka Shorba, Chettinad Kozhi Rasam, Nawabi Gucchi, Murgh Shahi Neelam Tikka, Mehr-o-Mah Mutton Curry, and the ethereal Daulat ki Chaat. Each course unfolds unhurriedly, paired with refined alcohol-free beverages crafted to complement the meal with balance and grace. Blending royal aesthetics with contemporary finesse, Mehr-o-Mah is envisioned as a space for discerning diners seeking elegance, intimacy, and storytelling through food. It sets a new benchmark for experiential dining in the city, where heritage meets hushed luxury and every evening feels like a celebration. Location: M3M 65th Avenue, Sector 65, Gurugram, Haryana 122101 Cost: Vegetarian – INR 2999 + taxes | Non-vegetarian – INR 3999 + taxes A gem for soulful South Indian cuisine in Gurugram, Atmanam expands its presence with a new outlet at Elan Miracle, Sector 84, following the success of its AIPL Joy Central, Sector 65 location. A pure vegetarian restaurant rooted in tradition yet designed for today’s urban diner, Atmanam draws its name from Sanskrit, referenced in the Bhagavad Gita, meaning ‘the self’ or ‘the soul’—a philosophy reflected in both its food and ambience. Built on the belief that good food should feel comforting, nourishing, and sincere, Atmanam focuses on clean, wholesome South Indian preparations made with care and intention. Naturally fermented batters, balanced spices, and time-honoured techniques form the backbone of the menu, presented in a refined, contemporary way without losing authenticity. Highlights include Benne Dosa, Mini Podi Idli tossed in aromatic podi and ghee, Masala Vadai, Lemon Rice, Bisi Bele Bath, and Paneer Chettinad served with Malabar Parotta. Desserts such as Pineapple Rava Kesari and Payasam complete the experience. The interiors are understated yet elegant, with brass crockery, minimal design, and a calm ambience that keeps the focus on the food. Location: AIPL Joy Central, Sector 65 & Elan Miracle, Sector 84, Gurugram Timings: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm Cost for two: Approx. ₹600 Kokoy, a café evolving into a warm, community-driven space, has opened its new outlet at Plot 703, Sector 23, Gurugram. Designed for unhurried mornings and reflective evenings, it offers Chikmagalur coffee in a serene setting inspired by the Aravalli hills. The café pairs global comfort dining with artisanal brews, featuring wholesome breakfasts, fresh salads, café-style sandwiches, signature burgers, and Italian favourites. Its coffee programme ranges from classic espressos to creative signatures like Cran Cran Coffee and Cheese Whip Cappuccino, complemented by matcha, smoothies, shakes, and non-coffee options. Location: Plot 703, Opposite Ansal Plaza, Sector 23, Gurugram, Haryana Cost for two: Approx. ₹1800 In the heart of Gurugram, INGRI at Museo emerges as a thoughtfully designed, globally inspired café that invites diners to slow down and savour the moment. Crafted for leisurely meals, it fits seamlessly into any time of day—whether for a wholesome breakfast, wood-fired pizzas, comforting pastas, or creamy risottos. The space balances intimate indoor seating with a serene outdoor garden, making it ideal for long conversations or quiet meet-ups. With its relaxed pace and inviting ambience, INGRI offers a calm retreat in the middle of the city. Location: Museo Camera Centre for the Photographic Arts, Sector 28, Gurugram Cost for two: Approx. ₹1800 Farzi Café at CyberHub reinvents itself for a new generation of diners. While its soul remains rooted in playful Indian flavours, the new menu shows restraint and maturity. Dishes like Dal Chawal Arancini, Banarasi Tamatar Chaat, Rogan Josh Shepherd’s Pie, and Taftan pizzas strike a thoughtful balance. Desserts such as Mithai Tiramisu and Parle-G Cheesecake evoke nostalgia, while the Cocktail Safari featuring drinks inspired by Indian cities elevates the experience. Location: CyberHub, DLF Cyber City, Gurugram Timings: 12 pm – 12 am Cost for two: Approx. ₹2000