In Lucknow, retro chic meets modern pulse at Sidewalk Bakehouse & Café

In the sphere of hospitality, where does the line between a simple meal and a cherished experience blur? Sidewalk Bakehouse & Café offers a glimpse into this synthesis.

Tucked within the bustling commercial core of Lucknow, the cafe unfolds as a retreat where epicurean delights and creative expression coalesce. Spanning 3000 sq ft across two meticulously crafted floors, this destination—shaped by For each Studios—marks yet another collaborative venture of the design firm with the same family that brought forth its Kanpur sibling, continuing a legacy rooted in the restaurant business.

“They envisioned an all-day dining space that transcends mere culinary pleasures,” reflects Aman Pasricha, who co-designed the space with Pranat Singh. “A place that’s inviting and relaxed, yet also adaptable to host events like art exhibitions, music nights, and gatherings that foster a sense of community.”

Inspired by the spirited essence of retro flair, Aman and Pranat assembled a vivid spectrum of colors and furnishings, reminiscent of classic diners. With carte blanche over the café’s rectangular expanse, they sculpted an environment that reflects a confluence of nostalgic elegance and contemporary panache. As one approaches the café, the outdoor seating area greets with metal-framed chairs, a nod to mid-century chic. Stepping inside, a set of sofas anchor the informal lounge, perfect for moments of repose and leisurely indulgence.

Expansive windows invite a cascade of natural light, bathing the space in a luminous sheen that amplifies its sense of airiness. The central beverage counter, realized in an island configuration and topped with red marble, becomes the focal point of this dynamic setting. “A deliberate choice to create an interactive area to align with the clients’ ethos and encourage social exchange” asserts Aman. Encircling it, seating arrangements are varied—from wall-mounted benches to two- and four-seater tables, inviting a fluid interaction among guests.
“A curated ensemble of contrasting textures and hues forge a captivating environment”, says Pranat, when asked about the aesthetic lexicon. “The warm embrace of rust mingles with distinct greens – tranquility of sage walls and the opulent depth of emerald in furniture. The somber tone of rust on the false ceiling establishes a cohesive visual flow, discreetly masking the exposed services.”

A collection of abstract artworks by local talents punctuates the white ash veneer walls, their tints gently resonating with the café’s chosen palette. Floating shelves hover gracefully, offering a delicate stage for merchandise display. An earthy balance is introduced through bespoke furniture, where wood and cane meet the soft touch of linen upholstery. Above, fabric pendant lights cast an amber glow, their thematic presence underpinning the cafe’s nostalgic mien.

Fashioned as a semi-open space, the upper floor is characterised by an array of whimsical doodles by Arushi Bhatia, an illustrator whose eclectic touch extends to the intricate branding details of the cafe. Kitkat tiles in soft beige bring a subtle dimension, their presence complemented by geometric-patterned flooring that whispers of modernity without overwhelming. Slender chairs framed in metal and jute rope insinuate an adept interplay between the tactile and the refined. Yet, the pièce de résistance amidst the subtle design elements is the custom-made brick oven, sourced from Pondicherry. Dressed in mosaic tiles, it introduces an artisanal beauty to the space. The ceiling features a composition of MS frame with fabric interlaced throughout, bestowing a vintage aura.

Aman reflects in contemplation, ”It was all about creating a space where every visit is an opportunity to savor more than just a meal, but moments of genuine connection and joy.” The cafe continues to thrive at the intersection of style and substance, becoming a cherished addition to the city’s cultural fabric.

Text by: Mehar Deep Kaur
The Author is a Faculty at School of Design & Innovation, RV University, Bengaluru