AT LA LOCA MARIA,
PAELLAS, COCKTAILS &
CULTURE COME ALIVE
LA LOCA MARIA, BANDRA
From Features Desk
Nestled in the vibrant Pali Hill area of Bandra,
La Loca Maria has risen above its humble
beginnings as a neighbourhood restaurant to
establish itself as a renowned culinary
destination in Mumbai.
Under the skilful leadership of Spanish Chef
Manuel Olveira and his Indian wife, Pratima
(Mickee) Tuljapurkar, La Loca Maria has been
captivating diners since 2019 with its Modern
Spanish Cuisine and an equally enticing bar
program. ‘La Loca’ translates to ‘the crazy’,
and pays homage to Chef Manuel Olveira’s mother Maria, who ignited his passion for
cooking from a young age.
Inspired by Toledo’s Timeless Charm
As guests step into the 75-seater restaurant, they are enveloped by a space that beautifully interprets Spanish architecture, combining modernity with a comforting touch. Thoughtfully arranged, the restaurant layout ensures almost every table enjoys a view of the bustling kitchen.
As guests step into the 75-seater restaurant, they are enveloped by a space that beautifully interprets Spanish architecture, combining modernity with a comforting touch. Thoughtfully arranged, the restaurant layout ensures almost every table enjoys a view of the bustling kitchen.
Inspired by Chef Manuel’s hometown, the UNESCO heritage city of Toledo in Spain, the restaurant boasts a colour palette reminiscent of an old town, featuring shades of beige, green, white, and brown. A magnificent art deco chandelier graces the central dome, casting a soft glow on the hand-painted murals depicting various facets of Spanish culture, setting the stage for the delightful dining experience ahead.
Every design detail
feels intentional, quietly reinforcing the
restaurant’s philosophy of honouring
tradition while embracing a contemporary,
lived-in elegance.
The menu features a large variety of flavours: from Chef Manuel’s signature Paella dishes, BFF Carpaccio, Spanish-style flatbreads known as Cocas, to delectable offerings like Mushroom Truffle & Ham Croquettes, Gambas Al Ajillo, and Tacos. Not to be missed is their most sought-after deconstructed La Loca Tiramisu, an absolute favourite that keeps many guests returning for more.
A Bar Program Crafted With Heart
At the bar, they take immense pride in crafting every element of their drinks program in-house, with a focus on zero waste.
At the bar, they take immense pride in crafting every element of their drinks program in-house, with a focus on zero waste.
From infusions, cordials, and syrups to bitters and tinctures, their drinks bear a unique La Loca Maria flavour and character that stems from the care and attention they put into their preparation.
Just like their food, the handcrafted cocktails have become an irresistible part of the La Loca Maria experience. From the meticulously prepared ‘Aeropressed & La Loca Negroni’ to the refreshing ‘Pisco Sour’ and the spicy ‘Carambola Margarita’, all cocktails are just irresistible.
La Loca Maria is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Spanish heritage, culinary artistry, and heartfelt hospitality brought to life in the heart of Mumbai. Whether one comes for the soulful paellas, inventive cocktails, or the warm ambience that blends tradition with modernity, every visit promises an unforgettable experience.
