The Complete Guide to Izumi Bandra: Mumbai’s Little Tokyo

In the bustling, chaotic streets of Mumbai, finding a moment of Zen is rare. Finding a bowl of authentic Tonkotsu ramen that rivals a shop in Tokyo is even rarer. Izumi Bandra has managed to achieve both. Since its inception, this establishment has not just been a restaurant; it has been a cultural phenomenon that schooled the Mumbai palate on what Japanese cuisine actually looks and tastes like beyond the standard California Roll.

The Complete Guide to Izumi Bandra: Mumbai’s Little Tokyo

In the bustling, chaotic streets of Mumbai, finding a moment of Zen is rare. Finding a bowl of authentic Tonkotsu ramen that rivals a shop in Tokyo is even rarer. Izumi Bandra has managed to achieve both. Since its inception, this establishment has not just been a restaurant; it has been a cultural phenomenon that schooled the Mumbai palate on what Japanese cuisine actually looks and tastes like beyond the standard California Roll.

This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of Izumi Bandra in a question-and-answer format, diving deep into its history, the vision of its owner, the intricacies of its menu, and the practicalities of securing a seat at the most coveted table in town.

Part 1: History and Origins

What is the history of Izumi Bandra?

The story of Izumi Bandra is one of organic growth and obsession with quality. It did not start as the grand establishment it is today.
The journey began around 2018. Before the brick-and-mortar restaurant existed, it was a humble delivery kitchen and a pop-up. The founders wanted to test the waters: was Mumbai ready for authentic Japanese flavors that didn’t cater to the “Indianized” palate? The answer was a resounding yes.

The first physical outlet was a tiny, hole-in-the-wall space in Bandra that could barely seat a dozen people. It became legendary almost overnight. Customers would line up outside on the pavement for hours—rain or shine—just to get a bowl of their signature ramen. It was an open secret among foodies.

Due to this overwhelming popularity, Izumi Bandra moved to its current, much larger location on Perry Cross Road. The expansion allowed them to broaden their menu, install a proper sushi counter, and create an ambience that matched the quality of their food.

What does the name “Izumi” mean?

In Japanese, “Izumi” (泉) translates to “spring” or “fountain.” It symbolizes natural water sources, purity, and life. This is a fitting name for the restaurant, as the quality of water is crucial in Japanese cooking—particularly for the dashi stocks and ramen broths that form the backbone of the Izumi Bandra menu. It also represents a “spring” of authentic culture in the heart of Mumbai.

Part 2: The Owners and The Chef

Who is the owner of Izumi Bandra?

Izumi Bandra is the brainchild of the husband-and-wife duo, Nooresha Kably and Anil Kably. They are veterans of the Mumbai hospitality scene, previously known for the iconic lounge ‘Zenzi,’ which defined Mumbai nightlife in the 2000s. However, Izumi was a pivot toward pure culinary craft.

Who is the chef behind the food?

The culinary soul of Izumi Bandra is Nooresha Kably. Her journey is fascinating and central to the restaurant’s success. She didn’t just decide to open a Japanese restaurant; she immersed herself in the culture.
Nooresha trained at the Tokyo Sushi Academy, followed by intensive training at the International Ramen School in Yokohama. This is a critical distinction. In a city where many chefs learn from YouTube or second-hand instruction, Nooresha learned from the masters in Japan. She learned the precise science of noodle making, the delicate art of slicing fish for sashimi, and the patience required for 18-hour broths. Her dedication ensures that the food at Izumi isn’t an “interpretation” of Japanese food—it is a respectful replication of it.

Part 3: Specialty and Variety of Food

What is the specialty of Izumi Bandra?

While the menu is extensive, Izumi Bandra rests on two primary pillars: Ramen and Sushi.

  1. The Ramen: Before Izumi, “ramen” in Mumbai often meant instant noodles in spicy water. Izumi introduced the city to the complexity of Tare (seasoning base), broth, aromatic oils, and alkaline noodles. Their Tonkotsu Ramen (pork bone broth) is their flagship dish.
  2. The Sushi: They specialize in fresh, high-quality seafood, often flying in ingredients from Japan’s Toyosu Market or sourcing the best local catch that meets sashmi-grade standards.

What is the variety of food available?

The restaurant offers a wide spectrum of Japanese cuisine, moving beyond just the famous staples. The variety includes:

  • Yakitori: Skewered and grilled chicken cooked over charcoal.
  • Agemono: Japanese deep-fried dishes (like Tempura and Katsu).
  • Kozara: Small plates or tapas-style appetizers meant for sharing.
  • Donburi: Rice bowls topped with simmered meats or vegetables.
  • Desserts: Traditional Japanese sweets with modern twists, featuring Matcha, Yuzu, and Sesame.

Is the food authentic or fusion?

Izumi Bandra is staunchly authentic. You will not find “Jain Sushi” or “Masala Ramen” here. The owners have been vocal about maintaining the integrity of the flavors. If a dish is supposed to be subtle, it is served subtle. If a broth is supposed to be rich and gelatinous, it is served that way. This commitment to authenticity is what draws the Japanese expat community in Mumbai to the restaurant, which is the ultimate seal of approval.

Part 4: The Menu Deep Dive

What are the “must-try” items on the Izumi Menu?

If you are visiting for the first time, the sheer size of the menu can be intimidating. Here is a curated breakdown of the essential dishes:

1. The Ramen Selection

  • Tonkotsu Ramen: The holy grail. A milky, rich, pork-bone broth simmered for hours until it is creamy and packed with collagen. Topped with Chashu (braised pork belly), wood ear mushrooms, and a marinated soft-boiled egg (Ajitsuke Tamago).
  • Spicy Miso Ramen: A blend of chicken and pork broth with a spicy fermented bean paste (miso) base. It offers a kick without overpowering the umami.
  • Vegetarian Miso Ramen: Izumi is surprisingly friendly to vegetarians. This broth is made from soy milk and miso, giving it a creaminess that rivals the meat versions.

2. Sushi and Sashimi

  • Hamachi Carpaccio: Thinly sliced yellowtail served with a ponzu truffle dressing. This dish defines the “melt-in-your-mouth” experience.
  • Salmon Skin Roll: Crispy salmon skin paired with cucumber and spicy mayo. A texture bomb.
  • Battera: A unique style of “pressed sushi” from Osaka (Oshi-zushi). The Mackerel Battera is a highlight for those who enjoy stronger, cured fish flavors.
  • Negi Toro: Fatty tuna minced with green onions. Simple, luxurious, and delicious.

3. Small Plates (Appetizers)

  • Pork Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings that are crispy on the bottom and steamed on top.
  • Truffle Edamame: A distinct upgrade from standard salted edamame, tossed in truffle oil.
  • Karaage: Japanese style fried chicken. It is lighter and crispier than American fried chicken, served with a kewpie mayo dip.

Does Izumi Bandra serve alcohol?

Yes. The beverage program is as curated as the food.

  • Sake: They have an impressive list of Japanese rice wines, ranging from floral and sweet to dry and crisp.
  • Japanese Whisky: You can find premium drams like Hibiki and Yamazaki.
  • Cocktails: The bar whips up Asian-inspired cocktails using ingredients like Yuzu (Japanese citrus), Wasabi, and Shiso leaves.

Are there dessert options?

Do not skip dessert at Izumi Bandra.

  • Sesame Toast: A sweet take on French toast, rich with black sesame flavor.
  • Matcha Ice Cream: Made in-house, it has the authentic bitterness of premium green tea, balanced with sweetness.
  • Yuzu Cheesecake: A light, citrusy end to a heavy meal.

Part 5: Ambience and Vibe

What is the interior design like?

Stepping into Izumi Bandra feels like teleporting from Mumbai to Kyoto. The design philosophy is minimalist, embracing the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi (finding beauty in imperfection and simplicity).

  • Wood Accents: The interior is dominated by light pine wood tones.
  • The Sushi Bar: The centerpiece of the room is the open sushi counter where you can sit and watch the chefs slice fish with surgical precision.
  • Mural Art: The walls feature subtle, beautiful Japanese art, including a large koi pond mural that adds a sense of fluidity and movement to the space.
  • Lighting: Warm, amber lighting creates an intimate atmosphere, suitable for dates or serious conversations.

Is it a formal dining restaurant?

It is “upscale casual.” While the food is fine-dining quality, the vibe is buzzing and energetic. It is loud—not from music, but from the chatter of excited diners and the shouts of “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!) from the staff. You don’t need a tuxedo, but smart-casual attire is recommended.

Part 6: Location, Booking, and Logistics

What is the exact location of Izumi Bandra?

Izumi Bandra is located in one of the most posh neighborhoods of Mumbai.

  • Address: Ground Floor, Sunrise Building, Road No. 24, Off Perry Cross Road, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050.
  • Landmark: It is near the St. Andrew’s Church and opposite the small park on Perry Cross Road.

How can I book a table at Izumi Bandra?

Booking a table here is notoriously difficult due to the high demand.

  • Reservation Method: It is highly recommended to call the restaurant directly. They also use reservation platforms like Zomato or Dineout, but phone bookings are often more reliable.
  • Timings: They are typically open for lunch (12:30 PM – 3:30 PM) and dinner (7:00 PM – 11:30 PM).
  • Walk-ins: Walk-ins are risky, especially on weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). You might face a wait time of 60 to 90 minutes. However, if you go early on a weekday (Tuesday or Wednesday), you might get lucky.
  • The “Waitlist” Culture: Even with a reservation, the restaurant is often packed. There is a waiting area outside. The staff is professional and will text you when your table is ready.

What is the cost for two people?

Izumi Bandra is a premium dining establishment.

  • Average Cost: Approximately ₹3,500 to ₹5,000 for two people (without alcohol).
  • With Alcohol: Expect to pay ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 for two people if you order sake or cocktails.
    While expensive, most patrons agree that the price is justified by the portion sizes and the quality of the imported ingredients.

Does Izumi Bandra offer delivery?

Yes, following the pandemic, they established a robust delivery system. You can order via Zomato or Swiggy (depending on service radius).

  • Delivery Note: Ramen is delivered “deconstructed.” The broth comes in a pouch, and the noodles and toppings are separate. You have to heat the broth and assemble it yourself to ensure the noodles don’t get soggy. It is a thoughtful touch that preserves the quality.

Part 7: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Izumi Bandra kid-friendly?

Yes, high chairs are available, and the non-spicy ramen options (Shoyu Ramen) are very popular with children. However, the restaurant can get crowded and tight, so maneuvering a large stroller might be tricky.

Is there valet parking?

Yes, Izumi Bandra offers valet parking. This is a blessing, as parking on Perry Cross Road is virtually impossible.

How does Izumi Bandra compare to Izumi Goa?

The owners opened a second outpost in Assagao, Goa. While the core DNA is the same, Izumi Goa has a more relaxed, outdoor garden vibe and features more locally sourced Goan seafood specials on the menu. Izumi Bandra remains the more traditional, urban Japanese izakaya experience.

What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

To experience Izumi Bandra without the chaos:

  1. Go for Lunch on a weekday (Tuesday or Wednesday).
  2. Go for an early dinner (arrive exactly at 7:00 PM) on a weekday.
  3. Avoid Saturday nights unless you have booked weeks in advance.

Conclusion

Izumi Bandra is more than just a place to eat; it is an education in Japanese gastronomy. Before Izumi, Mumbai had sushi, and it had noodles. But Izumi brought the soul of the Izakaya and the craftsmanship of the Ramen-ya to the city.

Driven by Nooresha Kably’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and Anil Kably’s hospitality expertise, it remains the gold standard for Japanese food in India. Whether you are slurping the rich broth of a Tonkotsu ramen, admiring the knife skills at the sushi counter, or sipping a cold sake, the experience is transportive.

If you are planning to visit, remember: book a table in advance, arrive with an appetite, and prepare your wallet. But rest assured, for every rupee spent, you are getting a taste of Tokyo in the heart of Bandra.