Image Source: Curly Tales
Fireback, Mumbai’s newest culinary hot spot, is stoking the city’s adventurous appetites with a bold and thrilling take on Thai cuisine. Housed within the plush Nilaya Anthology in Lower Parel, Fireback’s Mumbai debut is already making waves by celebrating the fire, flavour, and soulful drama of Thai food—far beyond tired Pad Thai and ubiquitous green curry.
Key Highlights
A Culinary Concept from EHV International: The creative force behind celebrated venues like Indian Accent and Comorin, EHV International brings Fireback to Mumbai after a successful Goa launch. Legendary chef David Thompson, a globally recognized authority on Thai food, serves as Culinary Director, mentoring young talents and shaping a daring, authentic, yet playful menu.
Dynamic Space & Inspired Design: Russell Sage Studio’s interiors blend contemporary chic with warmth and Thai motifs. The restaurant’s name and design draw inspiration from the Siamese Fireback—Thailand’s national bird—a symbol of flamboyance and depth. Expect bamboo detailing, wave-like ceilings, and soft, inviting lighting that’s perfect for a convivial meal or a celebratory cocktail session.
Not Your Usual Thai: Fireback deliberately distances itself from the “curry-and-basil” stereotype. Dishes like the Coconut & Galangal Soup—a refined take on Tom Kha—balance coconut’s richness with galangal’s earthiness and a gentle herb lift. The Miang Kham uses betel leaf, pomelo, toasted coconut, and roasted peanuts for a zesty, one-bite explosion reminiscent of Indian paan, but with a distinctly Thai twist.
Dishes That Dazzle
Smoked, Grilled, and Charred: Grilling and fire-smoke define the menu. The Fried Pork Belly with Charred Cabbage and Tamarind Dip is an addictive, textural masterpiece. King Mushrooms, grilled and finished with a smoky edge, deliver a meaty depth that surprises even the staunchest carnivores. Thai-style grilled Lamb Chop Gorlae and Banana Leaf-Wrapped Sea Bass bring oceanic and land flavours to life, layered with house-made pastes and sauces.
Plant-Forward Surprises: Unafraid of vegetables, Fireback’s pumpkin and sweet potato, glazed and grilled with gorlae sauce, take centre stage for vegetarians and omnivores alike. Mushroom Lab and Thai-style herbed salads mingle sweetness, acidity, and heat—letting the produce shine.
Inventive Curries: Dig into Massaman Curry with pumpkin, peanuts, and heady coriander seeds, or venture for the “Jungle Curry” of grilled pork. Flavours are layered, assertive, and refreshingly different from Mumbai’s typical Thai offerings.
Rice & Sides: Crab Fried Rice turns a humble staple luxurious; the Chicken Krapow is peppery, herbal, and unapologetically punchy—a dish that reflects the restaurant’s bold attitude.
Cocktail Confidence and Sweet Endings
Bar Magic: Varun Sharma’s cocktails play with smoke, fruit, and spice. The Mango Rice drink, Thai Spiced Diablo with tomato water, and a standout tamarind cocktail—each delivers its own adventure, expertly paired with the kitchen’s heat and tang.
Memorable Desserts: Don’t miss the Mango Sticky Rice—restrained and true to its roots—while Cashew Nut Pudding with Caramelised Taro is rich, slow-cooked, and satisfyingly subtle, letting natural flavours linger.
Ambience, Service, and The Verdict
Fireback’s blend of modernity and tradition—a clever ceiling, lush plants, dimmed lights—creates a sophisticated yet full-hearted vibe. The staff, described as warm and attentive, further elevates the dining experience, making the journey through unexpected Thai flavours feel both comfortable and exhilarating.
Fireback isn’t just about rehashing Thai standards; it’s a deep dive into the country’s culinary soul, brought alive by passion, boldness, and flair. For Mumbai food lovers seeking the next big thing, this is a seat at the table not to be missed.
Sources: NDTV Food, Indulge Express, CNBC TV18, Curly Tales, Free Press Journal, Tripadvisor
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