Nestled in the creative space that is Comuna inside Makati, Agni announces itself discreetly. The newest restaurant from Ranjit Chimni, the force behind Mantra Indian Kitchen & Bar, opened only early this year, yet it already feels settled. Agni comes from the same lineage as Mantra, but it resists comparison. Where Mantra is rooted in the comforts of northern Indian cuisine, Agni looks outward. Its focus is regional, drawing inspiration from across greater India, and its approach is modern without being performative. It’s an evolution shaped by focus and direction. The restaurant seats about 25 diners across two levels, and that sense of limit defines the experience. The room is elegant without excess, calm without formality. It’s the kind of space that encourages attention to the food and drink and one that is meant for grown-up conversation. That same sense of edit carries through to the menu. Structured around small..
