Location: Jio World Plaza, BKC, Mumbai
Opening Date: 12th September 2024
Area: 110 sq metres approximately
Architect/Design Firm: Mr. Giorgio Armani with his team of architects
One can confidently say luxury conglomerate Giorgio Armani ticks all the boxes: fashion with Giorgio Armani boutiques, haute couture ateliers with Armani Privé, bespoke decor with Armani Casa, and premier cafeterias with Armani Caffè. Since its establishment in 1998, the brand’s culinary expansion, Armani Caffè, has been spanning continents, one city at a time. Established in over twenty prominent localities, the cafe finally stops in one of India’s largest metropolitan cities—Mumbai.
Armani Caffè charters a cosy spot at the Jio World Plaza, an upmarket shopping destination in BKC. But we aren’t just going gaga about this luxe cafe’s arrival. What inspires us is how every tranche of this Italian maison replicates the brand’s identity intrinsically. As our author tours this premium cafe, she studies its architectural narrative minutely. And while she grasps and takes it all in, she contemplates getting a sweet treat herself.
Delectable in Design, too!
Folding outward from the caffè is the Giorgio Armani boutique, making luxury a delightful experience that marries all senses. Covering approximately 110 sq metres, the Armani Caffè accommodates over fifty guests at a time. The boutique and the cafe are both designed by the eponymous designer and his team of professionals.
The cafe interiors synchronise with the Giorgio Armani boutique. Beholders witness an embodiment of the signatory style, with the brand Monogram embellished on the facade, Armani motifs in the interiors, and many more. Screen-like installations with palm-tree motifs accentuate the teal-green tones of the cafe, rendering the space a sophisticated renewal. Under the warm track lights, the palette of muted shades is met with champagne-gold accents, minimal yet comfortable furnishings, and a capacious movable space. Overall, various shapes and silhouettes come into play: curvy armchairs and rounded tables contrasting with rectangular niches and wall mirrors.
Just as one enters, the dedicated bistro comes into the spotlight. The linear coverage of the cafe’s structure acts as a catalyst, making the tavern a focal point for innovative design and experience. This corner sets itself apart in style and seating, allowing fluid barkeep and sommeliers to serve freely. Flaunting an enclosed area behind the poseur table lies segregated beverages in the wall offsets, four high stools with matching blue cushioning, and metal detailing in golden. The maison’s home decor segment, Armani Casa, also procures upholstery and decor for the cafe’s interiors.
Fine Food, Fine Designs, Fine Dining
Visitors are met with curated Italian cuisine, from signature Armani servings to Roman-style pizzas. Armani Caffè’s array of desserts ends meals on a happier note.
“I always wanted the Armani brand to become an expression of style as a lifestyle, of sophisticated simplicity as a sign of elegance in every field, and food that is one of the most important elements of everyday life could not be missing”, quotes Mr Giorgio Armani.
Sequestered in contemporary luxury, an Italianate amalgamation of design and aesthetics follows, allowing visitors to indulge in a culinary experience they will never forget. The Armani Caffè encounters an eclectic mix of contemporary elegance inherently rooted in its signature culture. All while adopting this metropolitan city’s architectural background.
Just like its culinary curation, everything about Armani Caffè’s design and decor demonstrates luxury. And you know what else in Mumbai defines bespoke design and luxury? India Design ID. Just a few minutes away next weekend, at Jio World Garden, more delectable gourmet experiences and other design occurrences await you. With a paramount focus on product design and architecture, ID Mumbai is dedicated to delivering an immersive cultural experience of bespoke design and architecture, panels of industry stalwarts, and thought-provoking exhibits and discussions. India Design ID will take place in Mumbai at Jio World Garden, BKC, from the 27th to the 29th of September, 2024. Book your tickets here.
While you plan your visit to the Armani Caffè, our author retires. Meanwhile, she decides to savour a sweet post-work retreat: a classic Tiramisù Chicco.
