By Mewati Sitaram
Neuma, the multi-specialty hospitality collective co-owned by filmmaker and tastemaker Karan Johar along with Truepalate Hospitality founders Ankit Tayal, Anshul Goel, and Vartik Tihara, has unveiled OJU in Mumbai following its blockbuster debut in Gurgaon, New Delhi. Set within the historic bungalow on Mandlik Road, Colaba, the new opening brings together Neuma’s European classics in a renewed format and OJU on the upper level, creating a dual-dining destination under one roof.
OJU Mumbai positions itself as a cocktail-forward, high-energy Japanese dining space where traditional craftsmanship is interpreted through a global lens. The atmosphere is calm, tactile, and grounded, complementing a menu built around elevated cuisine, signature highballs, and innovative cocktails. The culinary program is led by Chef Mahmoud Mohamed Awadalla Gaber (Moh) and Chef Nitin Bhardwaj. Chef Moh brings experience from Michelin-starred kitchens including Nobu, Mimi Kakushi, and Kodo, while Chef Nitin, known for representing India at the World Sushi Cup in Tokyo, adds depth rooted in Japanese tradition and contemporary technique.
The menu blends refined Japanese craftsmanship with global flavours, featuring signatures such as Grilled Edamame, Mushroom Miso Soup, Seaweed Salad with Yuzu Goma, and an array of cold plates including Tofu Carpaccio, Hamachi Ponzu, and Tuna Tataki. The sushi bar highlights classic cuts like Otoro, Hamachi, and Hotate, alongside inventive maki such as Prawn Tempura Maki and Spicy Tuna Maki. The robata section offers dishes like Miso Black Cod and Hokkaido Scallops, while desserts such as Matcha Tiramisu, Milk Cake with Mango Compote, and the OJU Molten Cake complete the experience.
The beverage program is spearheaded by Mukesh, winner of Best Bartender of the Year 2025, known for his refined yet approachable style shaped through acclaimed bars including Perch and Sidecar. The menu features inventive cocktails such as Beet and Miso, Genmaicha, Lima, and Piccolo, alongside a strong zero-alcohol selection. Highballs inspired by Japanese izakaya culture and a Japan-Peru cocktail dialogue define OJU’s signature drinking philosophy.
Designed by Aayushi Malik, the interiors combine an intimate bar room with a lush outdoor glasshouse. Artistic lighting, deep lounge seating, and a live sushi and robata grill create a warm, immersive atmosphere.
With OJU’s debut, Truepalate Hospitality strengthens its portfolio of distinctive dining concepts across India and beyond, bringing Mumbai a space that is inventive, high-energy, and thoughtfully contemporary.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
