This bold eatery in Kanpur, The Pink Zebra celebrates the old and new with just a hint of whimsy

We love how the visitor is drawn into this magical world from the moment they set eyes on the exteriors. The studio has merged multi-directional, black and white stripes on walls, ceilings, floors, furniture and accessories with solid expanses of bubble gum pink. Highlighted with brass details, the interiors hint at Art Nouveau glitz. You can feel the weight of Wes Anderson’s surreal design ideology seep through the carefully refurbished space – from the offbeat décor and lighting to furniture and even the staff’s uniforms.

The space boasts arched doorways framing zebra themed pendant lights illuminating Colonial-style sofas washed in pink. An artsy, pink hued false ceiling design has dome drop lights while another section features a ceiling with black and white stripes. Empty, arched alcoves in the wall, bar counter and concierge desk hide recessed lights. Contemporary leather banquettes sit across from zebra striped chairs and pop art wall illustrations break the monotony of the stripes and solid colour. 

The owners wanted to bring to Kanpur’s culinary scene a place that the city had never seen, an experience that would have people talking for days and an ‘expertly crafted world whose spaces are a framed treat to the eyes’. Well, they certainly got us all to sit up and take notice.