India, June 2 -- There's a new trend brewing in India's cafe scene - the rise of 'DIY cafes'. Inspired by the cosy, interactive experiences of konbinis or convenience stores in Japanese and Korean dramas, these cafes are putting a twist on dining by letting customers roll up their sleeves and cook their own meals. Whether it's preparing a steaming bowl of ramen at a hot-water counter or crafting the perfect cup of coffee, these cafes are inviting patrons to become active participants in their culinary journeys. This hands-on approach has resonated deeply with youngsters seeking personalisation and novel experiences. At the heart of this trend is The Noodles Cafe in Manipal. Cafe owner Disha Shetty, who moved to the Karnataka suburb to start the outlet, shares, "We wanted a culture where people walk in to cook and truly experience their own meal. It's not just about ordering and eating - it's about the whole process." Customers can choose from a range of ramen packets and customise their toppings, with the staff ready to assist if needed. Delhi's K Friends Cafe operates similarly, offering a slice of everyday konbini magic. Rejakshi Chatterjee, a 23-year-old postgraduate student who often frequents the joint tells us, "You grab a ramen packet, cook it yourself, and enjoy it or take it along. It's about being in the moment, but capturing it for your Instagram too!" Mauji Cafe in Pune also taps into this spirit, especially for those looking for a light bite or a warm drink. "We have a snack bar where people can make small bites or brew their own tea and coffee," says owner Vandita Kedia Purohit, adding, "It's a fun way to engage with customers, and it makes things easier for our team, too." DIY is finding a sweet spot in the world of desserts, too. MyFroyoLand gives customers the chance to swirl their own frozen yoghurt and load it with toppings. Founder Avinash Dowlwani remarks that this model bridges the gap between cafes and traditional dessert parlours. "DIY trends are growing as customers demand more personalisation and unique experiences," he notes. The rise of DIY cafes reflects a global shift toward slow living, where creativity and connection take centre stage. Cafes inviting customers to turn their meal into a memory, has attracted not just students and young professionals, but families as well. Pratyusha Paul Chowdhury, an engineer and mother of two, shares, "My kids love being able to choose their flavours and toppings. It turns a simple outing into an interactive experience."...