La Loca Maria, the newest entrant to the thriving cultural scene in the city is situated in an iconic spot formerly occupied by Birdy’s since the past thirty years in Bandra. Instead of opting for a stereotypical Spanish name, Rohit Bhoite along with co-founders Chef Manuel Olveira Seller and Mickee Tuljapurkar cast their sights on a creative iteration of the much-touted cuisine. Having decided that the name of the restaurant had to symbolise Manuel’s passion for food and his cultural heritage, they decided to throw in a punchline for maximum effect. Thus, La Loca Maria was born, with ‘la loca’ translating to ‘the crazy’. After ideating some more, we realized that they wanted to add a strong positive feminine energy to the space. His real inspiration — Maria, his mother mirrored boldness and fearlessness. She did not choose to abide by societal norms. Her inimitable zest for life and self-confidence means that she is an eternal muse for Chef Manuel, and the interiors have been modeled after this pulsating energy that his mother radiates. The final result is a creative collaboration with local street artists, with Za Works bringing the murals of the eponymous Maria to life on the walls. Leaving ladylike conventions by the wayside, you’ll find her sitting with her legs uncrossed, sipping on sangria in between bites of a wholesome burger. The studio wishes for every visitor that walks into La Loca Maria to resonate with Maria’s confident persona and her independent identity. The founders also wanted a personal stamp on the place by inculcating a painting of their pet dog, Max on the walls. The flooring of the space was an added bonus where continuing the same pattern inside and outside helped bring out the real charm of the space. The pattern and the symmetry were in direct contrast with the wall murals which brought a fresh amalgamation of design and conformity. Contemporary styles was the main head turned, from cane chairs that sublimely graced the onlooker with semi hidden distressed paneling going along the walls. The arched doors and fluted glass acquired and made locally beautifully embraces the look and feel of ‘La Loca Maria’. The food mirrors the joie de vivre of the interiors, and Spanish classics are thoughtfully reimagined to tease and tempt the palates of the city’s foodie folk. The spirit of simplicity is celebrated in full force in the kitchen that occupies half the size of the restaurant, so people can see the food on their plates being made before their eyes.