India’s culinary scene has earned global recognition once again, with two standout restaurants securing spots on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list—one from bustling Mumbai and another nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh.
Leading the charge is Masque, which has firmly established itself as one of India’s most innovative fine-dining destinations.
Headed by chef Varun Totlani, Masque is known for its 15-course tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients with a modern twist. Located in a repurposed textile mill, the restaurant blends contemporary design with a deep respect for India’s diverse produce.
Its seasonal menu features creative dishes such as:
Since opening in 2016, Masque has consistently ranked among the country’s best, earning multiple accolades and cementing its place on the international stage.
Equally exciting is the rise of Naar, a destination restaurant founded by Prateek Sadhu.
Set in the serene hills of Kasauli, Naar focuses on Himalayan cuisine, using wild ingredients, seasonal produce, and traditional cooking methods.
The restaurant has made a remarkable leap from 66th place last year to entering the top 30 this year—highlighting its growing global appeal.
The name “Naar,” meaning fire in Kashmiri, reflects its philosophy of storytelling through food, with menus inspired by the region’s six distinct seasons.
This year’s top honour went to The Chairman, known for its refined take on Cantonese cuisine. Owned by Danny Yip, the restaurant has gained acclaim for focusing on flavour and authenticity over fleeting trends.
With both Masque and Naar ranking within the top 30, India’s presence on the global culinary map continues to grow stronger. From urban innovation to regional storytelling, these restaurants showcase the diversity and depth of Indian cuisine.
