Food

Celebrity Owned Restaurants Lighting Up Mumbai’s Dining Scene

Mumbai is known as the city of dreams, and that extends well beyond Bollywood and cricket into its glittering culinary landscape. A growing number of celebrities have ventured into hospitality, fusing their personal flair with luxury dining experiences. From heritage mansions to rooftop lounges, these celeb-owned restaurants offer more than just food—they serve style, exclusivity, and Instagram-worthy moments. Hashtag Magazines gives you a lowdown of Mumbai’s hottest celebrity-backed dining destinations.

1. One8 Commune – Juhu

Owned by: Virat Kohli (Indian cricketer)

In the heart of Juhu, One8 Commune brings together nostalgia and modernity. Set in the former bungalow of music legend Kishore Kumar, this restobar marries casual luxury with a buzzing energy. Virat Kohli’s personality is evident in every corner—from the bold art and neon signs to the laid-back yet upscale vibe.

Cuisine: The menu offers a global tour with gourmet pizzas, Asian stir-fries, sliders, and indulgent desserts, complemented by signature cocktails.

Ambience: Quirky, vibrant, and artsy, the space is perfect for brunches, late-night hangouts, and influencer meet-ups. The lush alfresco section is particularly popular for sunset selfies.

Why go: Celebrity ownership, stylish interiors, and a well-executed menu make it one of Juhu’s trendiest spots.

2. Neuma – Colaba

Owned by: Karan Johar (Filmmaker)

True to Karan Johar’s flair for drama and design, Neuma is more than a restaurant—it’s a cinematic experience. Housed in a restored colonial bungalow in Colaba, the space is divided into multiple zones, each telling a different story.

Cuisine: Modern European and Mediterranean, with dishes like truffle mushroom risotto, burrata salads, and an exquisite cocktail list.

Ambiance: Whether you’re sipping in the Garden Café surrounded by greenery or enjoying a cocktail in the moody Rose Bar, every corner is designed for visual impact. Vintage chandeliers, velvet sofas, and curated dinnerware add to the charm.

Why go: For lovers of design and ambiance, Neuma is a visual and culinary treat—and often a set for editorial shoots and celeb sightings.

3. Bastian – Bandra (Bastian At The Top)

Owned by: Shilpa Shetty (Actress and wellness entrepreneur)

Located atop a Bandra high-rise, Bastian At The Top is where luxury meets indulgence. Shilpa Shetty’s stamp is evident in the health-meets-hedonism concept, catering to the well-traveled, health-conscious elite.

Cuisine: A celebration of global comfort food with a luxe twist—think lobster mac and cheese, sushi platters, gourmet American fare, and towering desserts.

Ambiance: Earthy Cappadocian design, plush lounge seating, and a rooftop pool create a sanctuary above the city bustle. Romantic lighting and elegant service complete the experience.

Why go: It’s one of the most celeb-heavy dining spots in the city—ideal for those who love their meals with a side of glamour.

4. Akina & Privé by Akina – Bandra

Owned by: Aallia Hospitality, with rumored celebrity backers

Offering a refined Japanese experience, Akina and its adjoining speakeasy Privé bring contemporary Tokyo to the heart of Bandra. While officially led by Aallia Hospitality, whispers of celebrity investors—ranging from socialites to TV personalities—add an air of intrigue.

Cuisine: Expect elevated Japanese fare like miso black cod, robata-grilled meats, sushi rolls, and matcha-infused sweets. Cocktails are crafted with Japanese ingredients and techniques.

Ambience: Minimalist yet intimate with moody lighting, deep tones, and sophisticated textures. Privé’s underground setting contrasts with Akina’s elegance, making it a top pick for after-hours gatherings.

Why go: For refined Japanese cuisine in a chic, hidden setting, with the added thrill of possibly dining next to a familiar face from the screen.

5. Yauatcha – BKC (Partnership with Shilpa Shetty, among others)

Owned by: Partnerships with celebrities including Shilpa Shetty (Actress)

What it’s about: A luxe dim sum teahouse blending Cantonese fine dining with sleek, modern design. Though originally part of an international chain, Yauatcha’s Mumbai presence has seen celebrity backing and frequent A-list clientele.

Cuisine: Cantonese cuisine with a heavy focus on dim sum, stir-fried specialities, Peking duck, and handcrafted teas and cocktails.

Ambience: Polished and contemporary with glass walls, soft lighting, and a minimalist aesthetic—perfect for business lunches and intimate dinners.

Why it’s popular: Consistently high food standards, excellent service, and a strong celeb following. A go-to for fine-dining Chinese in the city.

6. Tori – Bandra

Owned by: Tara Sutaria (Actress)

What it’s about: A bold new entrant in Mumbai’s Asian dining scene, Tori reflects Tara Sutaria’s artistic sensibilities and love for pan-Asian cuisine, with a cosy yet chic design focus.

Cuisine: Pan-Asian with a fusion edge—Korean-style wings, Thai curries, sushi, and innovative small plates.

Ambience: Earthy colours, handpicked art, dim lighting, and greenery create a relaxed yet upscale environment, great for date nights and casual celeb-spotting.

Why it’s popular: A fresh take on Asian dining with Tara’s personal touches in both design and menu curation. It’s also quickly becoming a hotspot for younger Bollywood circles.

7. B Café – Andheri

Owned by: Bhumi Pednekar (Actress)

What it’s about: A wellness-forward café that combines sustainability with flavour, aligning with Bhumi’s environmental activism and healthy lifestyle.

Cuisine: Healthy global eats—smoothie bowls, vegan burgers, gluten-free pastries, cold-pressed juices, and Ayurvedic teas.

Ambience: Boho-chic with jute furniture, indoor plants, and natural lighting. Think urban jungle meets LA wellness café.

Why it’s popular: Appeals to the health-conscious crowd, with regular visits from fitness influencers and Bollywood fitness junkies. Eco-friendly packaging and plant-based menus are a big draw.

8. Slink & Bardot – Worli (Co-invested by celebrities)

Owned by: Backed by celebrity investors, including actors and socialites

What it’s about: A modern French eatery that brings Parisian elegance to Mumbai. While the main ownership is professional, several celebrity investors and patrons have helped boost its profile.

Cuisine: Modern French with creative plating—duck confit, cheese soufflés, truffle mashed potatoes, and a fine wine and cocktail list.

Ambiance: Sexy, dim-lit interiors with velvet seating, vintage mirrors, and an ultra-cool bar. It’s as much a social club as a restaurant.

Why it’s popular: A favourite among the fashion-forward crowd, it’s discreet yet glamorous, perfect for intimate celebrations and industry gatherings.

9. The Ministry of Crab – BKC

Owned by: Co-founded by Sri Lankan cricketers Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, with Virat Kohli as an Indian brand ambassador/partner

What it’s about: Mumbai’s outpost of the world-famous Sri Lankan seafood restaurant, known for giant lagoon crabs and a no-fuss, flavor-first approach.

Cuisine: Seafood-centric with a focus on sustainably sourced crab, prawns, and shellfish. Signature pepper crab and garlic chili crab are must-tries.

Ambiance: Modern tropical with wooden decor, open kitchens, and large crab tanks. Understated yet stylish.

Why it’s popular: It’s where food purists and seafood lovers come to feast. Celebrity presence plus world-class cuisine equals instant buzz.

10. Tira Beauty Café – Jio World Drive, BKC

Owned by: Reliance Retail with influencer/celebrity partnerships (featuring Kareena Kapoor, Kiara Advani as brand ambassadors)

What it’s about: A beauty-meets-café hybrid inside Tira’s flagship store. While not fully owned by a single celebrity, its branding heavily relies on star power.

Cuisine: Instagrammable coffee, low-sugar desserts, fruit bowls, and wellness elixirs.

Ambience: Sleek, glossy interiors with pastel colours, ring lights for selfies, and café tables designed to double as beauty consultation pods.

Why it’s popular: It blurs the line between retail therapy and café culture, with a heavy dose of celebrity-led branding and influencer buzz.

Mumbai’s celebrity-owned restaurants go beyond star value—they offer curated experiences that merge personal branding with high-end hospitality. Whether you’re a foodie, a fan, or just looking for your next Instagram post, these celeb-driven hotspots promise a memorable outing.

May 9, 2025

A Meal with a Southern Touch

What: Bhojanam Where: Hyderabad If you’re craving a meal that feels like home, Bhojanam in Jubilee Hills offers a warm, flavourful journey through the heart of Telugu cuisine. When in the South, a thali is one of those experiences that instantly gets your lips smacking, comforting, wholesome food served traditionally on a banana leaf. In the heart of Hyderabad, Bhojanam brings this experience to life with authenticity and warmth. Located in Jubilee Hills, this sprawling 8,000 sq. ft. space has been thoughtfully put together by Pranavi Chekuri and Teja Chekuri under Fullstack Ventures. Every detail reflects a personal touch. Pranavi, who grew up learning traditional cooking from her grandmother, has incorporated her own family recipes into the menu, even something as simple as rasam is crafted with a deeply homely, authentic flavour. The space is simple yet inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating, and an open kitchen where the aromas of freshly prepared dishes fill the air. At its core, Bhojanam celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Telugu-speaking regions—Krishna, Godavari, Rayalaseema, and Telangana, through a thoughtfully curated, region-first thali experience. Since I’m allergic to seafood, I opted for the Krishnamma Bhojanam. We began with fresh sugarcane juice, pressed on-site, with hints of lime and ginger, refreshing and perfectly balanced. What followed felt deeply personal. Pranavi joined us for the meal and made sure everything was served just right. Conversations flowed easily about food, influences, and the stories behind certain dishes, adding a layer of warmth to the experience. The meal included dishes like natu kodi vepudu and pulusu, each carrying a distinct homemade quality, nothing overdone, just honest flavours that felt like they belonged in a family kitchen. During a conversation about local Telangana dishes, anapakaya ginjalu (hyacinth beans) came up, and Pranavi mentioned that they make vadas with

Food

Cool & Nourish: Refreshing Summer Drinks to Beat the Heat

As temperatures rise during the summer months, staying hydrated becomes essential for maintaining energy, digestion, and overall health. While water remains the most important source of hydration, traditional summer drinks made with natural ingredients can provide additional nutrients and cooling benefits. Across India and other tropical regions, seasonal beverages made from fruits, herbs, and dairy have long been used to regulate body temperature and replenish minerals lost through sweat. These refreshing drinks not only quench thirst but also support digestion, boost immunity, and help the body stay balanced during intense heat. Here are some easy summer beverages along with their health benefits and simple recipes you can try at home. Aam Panna (Raw Mango Summer Cooler) Aam Panna is a classic summer drink known for its tangy flavour and cooling properties. It is made from raw mangoes blended with spices and herbs. Health BenefitsRaw mangoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and prevent dehydration. The drink also restores electrolytes lost through excessive sweating and protects against heatstroke. Why You Should Drink ItAam Panna is considered one of the best traditional drinks to combat summer fatigue and heat exhaustion. Recipe Ingredients 2 raw mangoes 3 tablespoons sugar or jaggery (adjust to taste) ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder A few fresh mint leaves A pinch of black salt 2 cups chilled water Method Boil or pressure-cook the raw mangoes until soft. Peel the skin and extract the pulp. Blend the pulp with sugar, mint leaves, cumin powder, and black salt. Add chilled water and mix well. Serve cold with ice and a few mint leaves for garnish. Buttermilk (Chaas) Buttermilk is a light, refreshing drink made from yogurt diluted with water and flavoured with spices. Health BenefitsIt is rich in probiotics, which support gut health and digestion.

Food

From Menus To Memories: Top Hosting Tips For The Ultimate Dinner Party

There’s something magical about a well-executed dinner party. Whether you’re rounding up your best friends for a catch-up or entertaining extended family for a celebratory night in, the joy of feeding those you love never goes out of fashion. As much as we love a night out at a fancy restaurant, there’s a certain charm about staying in, lighting some candles, and serving up your signature dish with pride. For many Indian hosts, a dinner party is more than just a meal it’s a full-blown experience. From the starters to the send-off, every detail adds up to make your guests feel welcome, well-fed, and genuinely impressed. But pulling it off requires more than just a decent butter paneer and some extra plates. Whether you’re a seasoned host or dipping your toes into the world of dinner parties, here are some top tips for hosting with ease, style, and a whole lot of heart. Start With The Invite to Set The Tone Early Planning for a dinner party starts way before the guests come knocking at your door it begins with your invitation. A blasé “Dinner on Friday?” text on WhatsApp doesn’t cut it. If you want to elevate the vibe, design your own PDF invitation cards it’s a small touch that shows thought, effort, and makes everything feel more intentional. Plus, you get a chance to convey the essentials date, dress code (if applicable), theme, and what to bring or not bring (i.e., a bottle of wine, or no surprise plus-ones). Creating your own invitations also helps you set expectations in a classy way. Fancy a relaxed rooftop vibe with finger food and sangria? Or something a bit more traditional, with thalis and mithai? Either way, when your invite looks the part, your guests know what to bring and the

Food

Shruti Mahajan: From Home Kitchens to Digital Food Education

Shruti Mahajan’s relationship with food began long before social media. Raised in a home where meals symbolised comfort and connection, she grew up understanding that food was never just functional; it was emotional infrastructure. Today, based in Delhi NCR, she balances a full-time corporate career alongside a steadily growing culinary platform. Her dual life reflects her personality: equal parts structured and creative. “I’ve always balanced discipline with imagination,” she shares. Managing time, health, and responsibility firsthand shaped her belief that food solutions must work in real life, not just on screen. Simplifying the Everyday Shruti identifies as a culinary content creator and digital educator, but her core mission is simpler: make healthy eating realistic. She noticed that nutrition-forward cooking often felt overwhelming or aspirational. “Food is something we deal with every single day,” she says. “If we can make it easier and healthier, it genuinely improves quality of life.” Her content is built around that practicality, short, efficient recipes designed for busy schedules. Shruti’s signature format includes 30–40 second recipes that viewers can watch, save, and cook without friction. She focuses on ingredients already present in Indian kitchens and has carved a niche by making millets engaging, from Ragi Brownies and Ragi Dhokla to Millet Sambar Khichdi. Built on Consistency Her journey began quietly, experimenting in her own kitchen and sharing what worked. There was no dramatic pivot, only persistence. Balancing content creation alongside a demanding job required discipline. That phase reinforced her core belief: consistency outweighs perfection. The turning point came when followers began writing, “I actually tried this.” That validation signalled impact. Today, she is focused less on virality and more on systems, structured PDFs, nutrition-led education, and scalable tools that empower everyday cooks. Power in Balance Shruti operates on three principles: balance over extremes, progress over pressure,