Yazu, a name now synonymous with Pan-Asian gastronomy in Mumbai, has unveiled another remarkable outlet in South Mumbai, touted as its flagship location. This new space is a testament to the brand’s evolving identity, artfully sculpted into a vibrant biophilic outdoor area and an invitingly earthy indoor dining environment.
Project Name: Yazu
Studio Name: Sumessh Menon Associates
Area: 6,000 sq ft
Location: Lower Parel, Mumbai
Principal Designer: Sumessh Menon
Photography Credits: 21 Frames
Designed, developed, and meticulously executed by Sumessh Menon Associates, the space is centred around the curation of carefully orchestrated visual experiences, each element contributing to the restaurant’s distinctive ambiance.
The journey through Yazu begins with an awe-inspiring custom-made sculptural light feature that spans the entire ceiling. Crafted from natural wood and jute fabric, adorned with delicate floral motifs, this lighting installation sets the tone for the space, offering a perfect blend of nature and artistry. Below, the flooring mirrors this theme with an in-situ concrete design, featuring floral imprints and inlays that echo the patterns above, creating a cohesive and immersive environment.
One of the standout features, a hallmark of Sumessh Menon’s design philosophy, is the hand-carved wooden feature wall. This intricate backdrop frames a long seating area, where warm textures like cane and rich deep red leather create a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere. The space is further enriched by iconic design elements such as the vertical bottle display, larger-than-life sculptural lamps, and columns treated to resemble sculpted stone pillars. Each of these elements adds layers to the visual narrative, making Yazu a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate.
Every corner of Yazu and every design element within it have been carefully crafted, reflecting a deep understanding of the social and cultural contexts that are reflected in the space. The materials — natural stone, wood, cane, and jute — along with the rich, earthy tones of greys, browns, and burgundy, are thoughtfully chosen to exude the warmth and vibrancy of Asian culture. These are complemented by intriguing details like floral artwork and Asian-inspired sculptures, which further immerse guests in a culturally rich experience.
The outdoor space is a vision brought to life by Sumessh, designed to evoke the feel of a conservatory-style dining area. Enclosed within a biophilic-enhanced metal structure, this outdoor module not only defines the space but also creates the perfect ambiance for a dining experience that is as close to nature as it is to the heart of Pan-Asian culinary traditions.
Inside, the interiors are a carefully composed poetic ode to Asian culture. Every aspect of the design is intended to enhance the immersive experience of dining at Yazu, allowing guests to not only savour the culinary delights but also to fully engage with the space that surrounds them. The result is a restaurant that is as much about the visual and sensory experience as it is about the food, offering a holistic journey into the rich traditions and modern interpretations of Pan-Asian gastronomy.
