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Imagine you are dining inside a real aircraft, feeling the ambiance of flight, without ever sitting on a plane. India’s airplane-themed restaurants provide a unique experience, seamlessly blending aviation aesthetics with delectable cuisines. These eateries, ranging from repurposed Airbus A320s to Boeing 737s, offer an unforgettable dining experience. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 airplane restaurants in India, including the famous Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant, and tell us why these spots are a must-visit for foodies and aviation enthusiasts. Whether you are in Mumbai, Delhi, or anywhere else, buckle up for a culinary journey like no other!
Why Airplane Restaurants Are a Hit in India
Airplane restaurants have taken India by storm, offering a new dining experience that’s the perfect combination of the thrill of aviation and delicious food. These establishments often transform decommissioned aircraft into chic restaurants, offering features such as cockpit views, cabin crew-style service, and boarding pass-style menus. They’re perfect for families, couples, and groups who want an Instagram-worthy dining adventure. With a growing craze for unique experiences in India, these restaurants are rapidly gaining popularity.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best airplane restaurants in India, with a special mention of Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant and a focus on options in Mumbai, one of India’s culinary capitals.
1. Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant
Location: To Be Confirmed, India
Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant is a standout in India’s airplane dining scene, offering a one-of-a-kind experience and perfectly capturing the essence of flying. Housed in a repurposed aircraft, this restaurant combines authentic aviation vibes with a diverse menu that caters to both Indian and international tastes. Upon entering, the airplane interior greets you with cozy seating and a photogenic cockpit view. The menu includes Indian classics, Chinese dishes, and continental delights, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Why visit? Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant is perfect for families and aviation enthusiasts seeking a unique dining experience. Its innovative concept and flavorful dishes make it a must-visit destination. Keep an eye on the official opening details or location announcements, as it is going to become a top contender in India’s airplane restaurant scene.
2. Runway 1
Location: Rohini, Delhi
Runway 1, Delhi, is the pioneer of India’s airplane restaurant trend. This family-friendly eatery is housed in a 15-year-old Airbus A320 in the Metro Walk Adventure Park and can seat approximately 100 guests. The aircraft, named Godavari, has been transformed into a swanky restaurant with stunning views of the artificial lake. Guests can enjoy Indian, Chinese, and Italian cuisine and also book space for private parties between 7 and 10 PM for approximately ₹5,000, which includes unlimited food and mocktails.
Highlight: The Cockpit experience is a favorite, where diners can explore the control center of the aircraft.
3. Fly Dine Restaurant
Location: Gaya, Bihar
Fly Dine Restaurant, scheduled to open in 2024, is Bihar’s first airplane-themed eatery in Gaya, located in the Sukhdev Clark Hotel. The restaurant offers a global menu, including Indian, Thai, Japanese, and Sri Lankan cuisines. With an entry fee of ₹300 per person, it is an affordable way to enjoy a unique dining experience. The interior of the aircraft mimics a real flight, which is very popular among tourists, especially in pilgrimage destinations like Gaya.
Highlight: The Divarsay menu and international appeal make it a must-stop for travellers.
4. Highly Aircraft Restaurant
Location: Vadodara, Gujarat
Gujarat’s first airplane restaurant, Highly Aircraft Restaurant, opened in Tarsali, Vadodara in 2021. The restaurant is made from a scrapped Airbus A320, which cost ₹1.4 crore, and offers a true-to-life aircraft experience, which includes actual plane seats and cabin crew-style service. The menu includes Continental, Italian, Thai, Mexican, and Chinese dishes, and one can also enjoy the stunning views from the windows of the aircraft.
Highlight: Owner, Mehmood Mukhi, wanted aviation to be accessible to people who rarely fly, which makes it a unique addition to India’s dining scene.
5. Pista House Flight Restaurant
Location: Shamirpet, Hyderabad
Launched in 2023, Pista House Flight Restaurant is a luxurious dining destination in Hyderabad, built from a repurposed Airbus A320. With a seating capacity of 150, this restaurant offers a full flight-like experience, including a runway, security check, and boarding pass-style ticketing. The menu includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with a focus on Indian and global cuisines. The setup has cost more than ₹1 crore, which ensures a premium experience.
Highlight: Attention to every detail from the runway to the in-flight ambiance makes this restaurant a top choice in Hyderabad.
6. Boeing 737 Aeroplane Restaurant
Location: Khatu Shyamji, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Launched in 2023, Pista House Flight Restaurant is a luxurious dining destination in Hyderabad, built from a repurposed Airbus A320. With a seating capacity of 150, this restaurant offers a full flight-like experience, including runway, security check, and boarding pass-style ticketing. The menu includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with a focus on Indian and global cuisines. The setup has cost more than ₹1 crore, which ensures a premium experience.
Highlight: Attention to every detail from the runway to the in-flight ambiance makes this restaurant a top choice in Hyderabad.
7. Cafe Runway
Location: Borivali, Mumbai
Mumbai’s Cafe Runway in Borivali is an airport-themed cafe that brings the excitement of a runway to your dining table. While not housed in an actual aircraft, the decor mimics an airport with departure boards, airplane-shaped fans, and world map graffiti. The menu is quirky, featuring dishes like Aircraft Bambaiya Sandwich, Loading Burger, and Holiday Flight Mocktail, all priced affordably at around ₹500 for two.
Highlight: Perfect for Mumbai residents looking for a fun, budget-friendly dining experience with an aviation twist.
8. The Flying Butler
Location: Viviana Mall, Thane, Mumbai
Another gem in the Mumbai area, The Flying Butler at Viviana Mall in Thane is known for its aircraft-themed decor and delicious Malvani thalis. The restaurant features frames with scenic views of mountains and seas, enhancing the aviation vibe. Popular dishes include the Chicken Malvani Thali (₹395), Goan Fish Thali (₹545), and Crab and Coriander Cakes (₹345).
Highlight: A great spot for seafood lovers and those seeking an authentic Maharashtrian dining experience.
9. Fly Kouzina
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Fly Kouzina is Kolkata’s first airplane-themed restaurant, offering a vibrant dining experience with an aircraft-inspired interior. With a 4-star rating on Tripadvisor and over 100 reviews, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists. The menu includes Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, served in a setting that mimics an airplane cabin.
Highlight: The immersive ambiance and diverse menu make it a top pick in Kolkata.
10. Hotel Viman
Location: Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
South India’s first airplane restaurant, Hotel Viman, is housed in a converted Boeing 737 in Vijayawada. This eatery offers a unique dining experience with a focus on regional and Indian cuisines. The aircraft’s interior is designed to replicate an in-flight experience, complete with cozy seating and aviation-themed decor.
Highlight: A great stop for travelers exploring Andhra Pradesh’s cultural and culinary offerings.
Airplane Restaurants in Mumbai
Mumbai, the city of dreams, has many aviation-themed dining spots, though not all are housed in actual aircraft. Here are Mumbai’s top picks:
- Cafe Runway (Borivali): As mentioned, this airport-themed cafe offers a fun, budget-friendly experience, with quirky aviation-inspired dishes. It’s perfect for casual dining with friends or family.
- The Flying Butler (Thane): Located in Viviana Mall, this restaurant combines the aircraft theme with delicious Malvani thalis, which are quite popular with seafood lovers.
Mumbai doesn’t have an actual aircraft-themed restaurant like Delhi or Hyderabad yet, but these themed eateries perfectly capture the aviation spirit and are worth a visit. Keep an eye on new openings, as Mumbai’s dining scene is constantly evolving!
Why Visit Airplane Restaurants?
Airplane restaurants don’t just offer food—they provide a complete experience. See here why these are worth checking out:
- Unique Ambiance: Dining inside a real aircraft or in an airport-themed space is a different experience than any traditional restaurant.
- Photo Opportunities: From cockpits to boarding pass menus, these spots are perfect for Instagram.
- Diverse Menus: Most airplane restaurants serve a mix of Indian, Chinese, Continental, and regional cuisines that cater to every taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kaafi restaurants also offer kid-friendly activities, like cockpit tours, which are perfect for family outings.
- Affordable Fun: Entry fees at some places are just ₹100-300, making it an accessible adventure.
Tips for Visiting Airplane Restaurants in India
- Book in Advance: Some restaurants, like Runway 1, offer private party bookings, so plan ahead for special occasions.
- Check the Menu: Menus vary widely, so confirm the cuisine suits your preferences.
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: These spots can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Explore the Cockpit: Many restaurants allow you to check out the cockpit, so don’t miss this unique feature.
- Look for Deals: Some offer combo meals or unlimited food packages for group events.
The Future of Airplane Restaurants in India
The success of Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant and other airplane restaurants shows how much of a craze there is for innovative dining experiences in India. As more entrepreneurs repurpose old aircraft, we can expect that new locations will open across the country. Cities like Mumbai, where the food scene is quite vibrant, are prime candidates for airplane restaurants housed in actual planes in the future.
Conclusion
Airplane restaurants in India offer a thrilling blend of aviation and gastronomy, perfect for those seeking a unique dining experience. From Bharat Aeroplane Restaurant to Runway 1 in Delhi and Fly Kouzina in Kolkata, these eateries deliver memorable moments along with delicious food. Mumbai’s Cafe Runway and The Flying Butler further enhance the city’s aviation-themed dining options, even if they don’t yet use real aircraft. Whether you’re a foodie, aviation enthusiast, or just want a fun outing, these top 10 airplane restaurants in India will definitely take your dining experience to new heights.
So then, what are you waiting for? Book your “boarding pass” and embark on a culinary flight today at these wonderful airplane restaurants!
