Soumya Maheshwari
23-Jul-2025
At Loya, Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, take your palate on a comforting and delectable trip to the flavours of North India
In Mumbai, a city that practically lives and breathes food, it’s rare to find a place that doesn’t just serve great cuisine but tells a story while doing it. Loya, the North Indian restaurant at The Taj Mahal Palace, is exactly that. Dining at Loya is an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. With its opulent interiors and regionally inspired menu, Loya offers a thoughtfully curated celebration of northern Indian flavours, and the vegetarian offerings are nothing short of exquisite. So when I finally got the chance to dine there, my taste buds were more than ready to embark on a culinary journey that promised something extraordinary.
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How do you know you're in a place that honours the richness of North Indian cuisine? The food, of course, but it’s also the space that speaks volumes. The moment you step in, you’re welcomed into a warm, richly layered setting that’s deeply rooted in northern artistry. Handwoven textiles in vibrant colours, handcrafted brass elements from Moradabad, the mammoth grey stone at the bar, chandeliers that resemble ancient relics, and murals on the walls that tell stories of a lost age all come together to make you feel you are in a place that not only serves but also celebrates the North Indian culture.
Loya’s immersive dining is structured around Pella Swaad (starters), Saajha Swaad (mains), and Mittha (desserts). The menu resembled the vastness of North India and right from the welcome drink to the dessert, each dish reflected a different region. From the snow-capped valleys of Kashmir to the rugged terrains of Ladakh, the warmth of Punjab and the tanginess of Uttar Pradesh – you can expect everything!
I began with a selection of kebabs, and the Cholai Seekh, a plant-based innovation, surprised me with how beautifully it captured both texture and flavour. You can also try the one with a paneer base with cashew paste in between layers seasoned with mustard oil for the perfect pungent taste. A highlight was the chef wheeling over a gas trolley to prepare Daal Chaat at our table – mixing lentils with tangy chutneys and spices, bringing theatre to the table and deepening the connection to the dish.
Among the mains, it was the Nadru Yakhni, a Kashmiri-style lotus stem curry cooked in a creamy yoghurt base, that particularly stood out. It was creamy, aromatic, subtle, and deeply comforting. Served alongside were an assortment of rotis, including the flaky Bakarkhani and robust Bajra Roti or the Gola roti. Another standout option is the Sepu Wadi, a Himachali urad dal dumpling served in a yoghurt- and tomato-based gravy. A perfect meal always ends with an indulgent dessert, and the crisp jalebi with doodh and assorted kulfi along with saffron foam over thick rabdi did the job for me.
What stayed with me, beyond the flavours, was how thoughtfully the staff introduced each dish, offering insights into its origin, cooking style, and cultural significance. Loya doesn’t just serve North Indian food; it honours it. If you're looking for a dining experience that’s as rich in storytelling as it is in flavour, this is one meal you won't want to rush. Come hungry, and leave with a full heart.
