Hyderabad: In an age where speed and simplicity dominate daily life, there’s a quiet resurgence of places that challenge the norm—spaces that value nostalgia, layered craftsmanship, and the slow joy of sitting down for a thoughtful meal.
Hyderabad, with its ever-expanding culinary landscape, has recently welcomed three such spaces—each different in its mood, but connected by a shared attention to detail and comfort. Whether you’re looking for regal fine dining, breezy rooftop comfort, or a monsoon-friendly throwback to childhood, these new eateries promise something beyond just food.
Asli: Old-world elegance, rooted in regional depth
Jubilee Hills – Rs 2,800 for two
For those who miss the opulence of slow dining and ornate interiors, Asli offers a return to grandeur. A wooden spiral staircase leads into a space reminiscent of royal ballrooms, complete with twenty-foot-high ceilings, chandeliers, and arched windows. The outdoor seating, flanked by traditional jaali latticework, evokes Rajasthan’s palatial charm.
What to order
I.M.L.I: A tamarind-based mocktail served with a chilli-salt rim, echoing the flavours of childhood sour candy.
Marag: A Hyderabadi meat broth, served with birista (crispy fried onions) — warm, rich, and ideal for a slow meal.
Khaima Undey: Mutton meatballs tossed with green chillies and coriander, delivering a satisfying textural contrast.
Vazhaipoo Vadai: A vegetarian pick featuring banana flower fritters and a refreshing kosambari salad — a nod to Tamil home-cooking.
Kathal ki Haleem: Jackfruit replaces meat in this wheat-based dish, served with khameeri roti and topped with edible gold — indulgent and thoughtful.
Khaja Cassata: Combines Nellore’s khaja with praline ice cream and salted caramel. This layered dessert pays homage to regional sweets with a modern flair.
Asli is a destination for slow, intentional meals — best saved for when you have time to linger.
Celavie Rooftop Lounge: Comfort food with a pan-Indian beat
SR Nagar – Rs 600 for two
A far cry from fine dining but just as deliberate in its curation, Celavie hits the sweet spot between casual and clever. The space appeals to everyone — students, professionals, families — offering crowd-pleasers without compromising on flavour or creativity.
Highlights from the menu
Kaffir Lime Ginger Potion: A clear soup with shredded chicken, kaffir lime, and fresh ginger — warming and aromatic.
Masala Hash Browns: Indian spices meet Western breakfast, resulting in a crispy and well-spiced appetiser.
Paneer 65: Tossed in garlic, curry leaves, and chilli, this spicy Indo-Chinese classic is a vegetarian staple.
Parmesan Fries: No frills, just thick-cut fries with grated parmesan — a dependable snack for long conversations.
Hyderabadi Butter Chicken Bowl: Served with rice and garnishes, this dish balances rich gravy with the familiar touch of local spices.
Kiwi Orange Fruit Soda: A fizzy, fruity cooler topped with kiwi seeds — refreshing and fun.
The rooftop setting adds to the experience, especially as the city lights up at dusk.
Coffee Sangam: Monsoon nostalgia on a plate
Jubilee Hills – Rs 600 for two
There are few things as comforting as warm snacks and milky drinks during the rains. Coffee Sangam leans into this sentiment with a menu inspired by 90s bakeries, South Indian street food, and childhood beverages.
Seasonal and sentimental picks
Navrang Onion Samosa: Known as chota samosa, this version is packed with caramelised onions — a perfect rainy-day snack.
Peri Peri Punugulu: A Telugu classic given a spicy twist, served with robust tomato chutney.
Pistachio Podi Idli: Ghee-laden mini idlis tossed with nutty podi and crushed pistachios — a smart mix of texture and tradition.
Classic Chicken and Cheese Omelette: Done street-style, this dish offers comfort without complication.
Dinosaur Milo: Milo powder heaped onto a chilled Milo drink — a nostalgic favourite making a strong comeback.
Bobbattu Croissant: A hybrid of traditional bobbattu filling with flaky French pastry — surprisingly balanced in taste.
Condensed Milk and Milo Toast: Sweet, crunchy and entirely aimed at reviving your inner child.
Coffee Sangam feels like a place made for rainy afternoons and childhood flashbacks, ideal for unwinding solo or with a close friend.
The Verdict: Food, feeling, and time travel
In a city where new cafés and eateries open by the dozen, Asli, Celavie and Coffee Sangam stand out not just for what’s on the menu but for how they make you feel. Each one invites a pause from the noise, the rush, the sameness. Whether you’re in the mood for regal indulgence, comfort classics, or nostalgic bites, these spaces remind us that food isn’t just about sustenance — it’s a way of remembering, reflecting and reconnecting.
Sometimes, a plate of well-made food—steeped in memory, crafted with care—is all it takes to slow down.
