If you’ve scrolled through Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen Mokai pop up on your feed. This Bandra hotspot has become synonymous with stunning decor that transforms every season, delicious Asian cuisine, and yes those infamous queues that snake around the block. After finally snagging a table, here’s what we discovered.
The Vibe
Let’s start with what Mokai does best: ambience. The decor is absolutely breathtaking, changing every three months or so to match the season. It’s not just aesthetic for the sake of it but there’s a thoughtfulness to the space that makes you want to linger over your meal. From the lighting to the smallest decorative details, everything comes together to create an atmosphere that’s both Instagram-worthy and genuinely comfortable. Ambience? A solid 10/10.
The Food
Mokai’s menu, much like its decor, evolves with the seasons. During our visit, we sampled a good mix of their offerings, and here’s the honest breakdown:
The Seasonal Mango Matcha was an adventurous pairing that didn’t quite land for us. While the concept is intriguing, the earthy matcha clashing with sweet tropical mango creates a flavor profile that’s divisive at best. It’s one of those drinks you’ll either love or leave half-finished—we fell somewhere in the middle, finding it just average.
Mokai also boasts an impressive coffee menu with plenty of options to explore. We tried their cold coffee, and it delivered!!! It was smooth, well-balanced, and refreshing.
Now, the Chilli Garlic Noodles, these are an absolute steal. Perfectly spiced, impeccably flavored, with just the right amount of kick. If you’re only ordering one thing, make it this.
The Strawberry Chocolate Cake was decent but not memorable enough to warrant a strong recommendation. You can skip it without missing out.
Their Hot Chocolate hit the spot creamy, sweet, and comforting. A solid choice if you’re in the mood for something indulgent.
But the real star? The Nasi Goreng. This Indonesian-style chicken fried rice came beautifully plated with fresh salad, a perfectly cooked egg on top, and prawn crackers on the side. Every bite was flavourful and balanced—this is a must-try dish that showcases what Mokai’s kitchen can really do.
We ended with the Milo Tiramisu, and it was everything you’d want in a dessert: rich, chocolatey, creamy, with a light texture that literally melts in your mouth.
Is It Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. Between the food, the ambience, and the overall experience, Mokai delivers on its promise. Yes, the queues can be daunting, but there are ways around them.
Pro Tips to Beat the Queue:
Visit on weekdays rather than weekends
Aim for the 2-5 PM window when crowds thin out
Our Verdict:
Mokai isn’t just another pretty cafe it backs up its aesthetic appeal with genuinely good food and a vibe that makes you want to return. It’s rare to find a cafe that’s equally strong on ambience and execution but Mokai manages both!