MOAI is a game-changer in Hyderabad’s dining and cocktail culture.
MOAI is a game-changer in Hyderabad’s dining and cocktail culture. This 24,000-square-foot restobar takes the food scene in the city up a notch with its extraordinary culinary offerings not to mention breathtaking ambience. The moment you step in, you are hit with the vibe of a global cuisine theatre, and the décor is stunning.
The menu is a masterclass in balance and innovation, led by Michelin-trained Chef Mohib Farooqui and Global Menu Curator, Chef Parampreet Luthra. “Mohib’s forte is Middle Eastern cuisine, but he’s not afraid to experiment and give dishes a small desi touch,” says Shashidhar Kasi, one of the co-founders. The chef’s avocado gelato is a must-try, and his corn-fed chicken is piped with crab and prawn. “Parampreet, on the other hand, is a genius at fusionizing global cuisines with local flavors. His lamb adana kebab is a standout, and his desserts are exotic and decadent,” adds Shashi.
But what really sets MOAI apart is its cocktail offerings. Created by renowned mixologists Claudio Caprio and Saurav Samanta, the menu is a bold expression of “Local Alchemy. Global Spirit.” Claudio’s background in Barcelona and Saurav’s expertise in India come together to create unique and innovative cocktails that blend global influences with local ingredients.
One of the things that sets MOAI apart is the attention to detail. From the locally sourced artwork to the bespoke cocktails, everything is designed to create an immersive experience. The service is top-notch, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.
The interior design of MOAI is stunning, with a focus on earthy elements like fire, stone and water. The cabanas and island seating areas are perfect for families and groups, while the nightclub, Big Bull, is a whole different beast. With its massive LED walls and kinetic motors, it’s a space that’s unlike anything else in India.
The Big Bull boasts the largest LED backstage in India, measuring over 46 feet wide. “What’s unique about our setup is the use of kinetic motors to drive these LED walls, which can drop down to 9 feet. This technology is a first in India, and it’s incredibly versatile. With kinetic motors, we can customize the setup to fit various needs—we can adjust angles, align motions, and even display names, logos, or images,” says the co-founder.
Big Bull is designed to be a premium nightclub experience, with a focus on live music and DJs. The VVIP tables are elevated, and the island seating areas are perfect for groups.
MOAI and Big Bull are must-visit for anyone looking for a unique dining and nightlife experience in Hyderabad. With its focus on innovation and premium offerings, the place sets a benchmark in the city’s hospitality scene.
The food, of course, is exceptional. The food options at MOAI are plentiful and diverse. Highly recommended starters include Khichdi Khatta & Keema, Muhammara & Feta, while the Charred watermelon salad and Pumpkin & chickpea salad offer refreshing twists. The main course menu boasts a range of options, from Indian and Mediterranean to Pan Asian with a desi touch, making it particularly appealing to local tastes. At MOAI, the food is all about exploring global cuisine.
We bake our own breads, do our own desserts, and make our own ice-creams in-house—nothing's outsourced, beams Shashi proudly.
But what really impressed me is the passion and dedication that has gone into creating this experience. From the Michelin-trained chef to the award-winning mixologists, every single person involved in this project is a master of their craft. And it shows. If you are a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good night out, look no further than MOAI and Big Bull in Hyderabad’s Financial District is a must-visit destination. The sheer scale and ambition of this project is mindblowing. It is clear that the team has put their heart and soul into creating something truly unique.
