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

Monsoon Menus to Explore This Season

From cosy cafés perfect for slow afternoons to destination restaurants offering immersive seasonal menus, this monsoon is all about savouring flavour in its most comforting form. Here’s a curated guide to the most exciting monsoon menus that promise to turn every meal into a memorable escape. LOYA, Taj West End | Bengaluru: This monsoon, LOYA at Taj West End invites guests to savour the season through an immersive dining experience set amidst lush gardens, tranquil water features, and elegant alfresco seating. Inspired by the culinary heritage of North India, the seasonal menu features standout dishes like the smoky Wari Spiced Sigdi Macchi, the tangy Burni Ka Jhinga, the slow-cooked Cha Gosht, and the earthy Chaunk Wali Arbi, alongside the comforting Tudkiya Bhaath from Kangra. The experience is elevated with signature cocktails from the Vriksh menu and the evocative sounds of Jashn 2.0, creating a refined celebration of the monsoon. The Deli | Mumbai: The Deli introduces Good Mood Food, a thoughtfully curated menu inspired by the everyday moments that bring comfort and joy. Celebrating the café as a space to reconnect, unwind, or simply indulge, the menu brings together wholesome all-day dishes, comforting favourites, and satisfying desserts designed to suit every mood. Whether it’s a leisurely breakfast, a mindful lunch break, or a relaxed dinner with friends, Good Mood Food transforms simple café dining into a feel-good experience that lingers long after the meal. Hunaaan | Bengaluru: Hunaaan is bringing warmth to Bengaluru’s rainy season with its exclusive Dim Sum Festival, celebrating one of Asia’s most beloved culinary traditions through a thoughtfully curated menu of handcrafted dumplings and baos. Running across its Indiranagar and BEL Road outlets, the festival showcases authentic Pan-Asian flavours that are perfect for the monsoon. Vegetarian highlights include the indulgent Charcoal Mushroom & Cheese Truffle Dumpling,

Food

The Tricolour Food Guide

Celebrate the spirit of India through its vibrant flavours and colours. From saffron-inspired delicacies to fresh greens and pure whites, explore a tricolour feast that brings pride to the plate. Saffron – The Colour of Warmth & Celebration 1. Kesari Bath – Karnataka: A beloved South Indian sweet dish, Kesari Bath gets its golden saffron hue from saffron strands and saffron-coloured ingredients. Made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and cardamom, it is a festive favourite across Karnataka. 2. Zafrani Pulao – Hyderabad: A royal rice preparation infused with saffron, dry fruits, and aromatic spices, Zafrani Pulao reflects the rich culinary heritage of Hyderabad. Its delicate flavours and golden colour make it a celebration-worthy dish. 3. Kesar Peda – Uttar Pradesh: A classic Indian sweet made with milk solids, sugar, and saffron, Kesar Peda is synonymous with festivities. Its rich flavour and vibrant colour make it a timeless favourite across the country. 4. Rajasthani Gatte Ki Sabzi – Rajasthan: A royal Rajasthani delicacy, this dish features gram flour dumplings simmered in a rich, spiced yoghurt gravy. Its warm golden tones and aromatic spices make it a festive favourite. 5. Manipuri Chak-Hao Kheer – Manipur: Made with the rare black rice of Manipur, this traditional kheer takes on a beautiful purple-golden hue when prepared with milk and saffron. It is a celebration of the region’s unique culinary heritage 6. Kesar Shrikhand – Maharashtra/Gujarat: A creamy dessert made with strained yoghurt, sugar, saffron, and cardamom, Shrikhand is a staple at celebrations across western India. Its rich saffron colour and delicate flavour make it a festive classic. White – The Colour of Purity & Balance 1. Appam with Stew – Kerala: Soft, lacy white appams made from fermented rice batter are paired with a mild coconut milk-based vegetable or meat stew. This comforting combination reflects

Food

Oiya Panjim Review: Best Mediterranean Food in Goa

From what might just be Goa’s best pita bread to rich muhammara and light shawarmas, Oiya proves that great Mediterranean food doesn’t need to shout. Tucked into the colourful lanes of Fontainhas, Oiya brings together flavours from Turkey, Greece, Spain and the wider Mediterranean with a menu that feels thoughtful, comforting and refreshingly unpretentious. Founded by entrepreneur Vishal Salgia, whose travels across Turkey and the Mediterranean inspired much of the concept, the restaurant focuses less on theatrics and more on getting the food right, and that’s exactly where it shines. The meal began with what was genuinely one of the best pita breads I’ve had. Served warm with just enough char on the edges, it arrived soft, airy and impossibly fresh. Before we started, the server suggested we “smell, cut and dip,” and strangely enough, it completely changed the experience. Paired with the muhammara, the table went silent for a moment. Smoky, nutty, slightly sweet and rich without becoming heavy, it was easily one of the strongest dishes of the evening. Oiya’s Mediterranean influence leans softer and creamier compared to sharper Middle Eastern interpretations. Their hummus and dips carry a richness that feels indulgent yet balanced, making even simple dishes memorable. The veg pide followed and immediately stood out because of the bread itself, crisp at the edges with a pillowy centre that tasted unmistakably house-made. The chicken shawarma was another highlight: light, juicy and deeply flavourful without the greasiness that often comes with the dish elsewhere. Everything felt balanced and clean instead of overloaded. Then came the mutton lahmacun, thin, crisp and layered with beautifully spiced minced meat that carried just enough heat without overpowering the dish. Nothing at Oiya felt overworked. Every plate arrived with restraint and confidence. The owner confidently claimed they serve “the best falafel in

Food

India’s Best New Food Spots and Culinary Experiences

New menus, exciting launches and fresh culinary concepts are redefining the way we dine. Hashtag Magazine rounds up the latest food spots and flavour-forward experiences worth checking out. What: RumBabaaWhere: Mumbai Mumbai’s café culture welcomes a refreshing new entrant with RumBabaa, an all-day coffee and vinyl-led space in Andheri that feels less like a conventional café and more like a carefully curated pause from the city’s pace. Rooted in Japanese minimalism and slow-living philosophy, the space combines warm lighting, natural textures and an intentionally unhurried atmosphere where music, coffee and conversation take centre stage. The vinyl setup at the heart of the café gives the space its soul, creating a rhythm that evolves gently from calm mornings to relaxed evening wine sessions. The menu balances nourishment with indulgence thoughtfully. Breakfast bowls, inventive egg dishes and globally inspired small plates sit comfortably alongside playful desserts and elevated comfort food. Dishes like the Krapow Omelette, Kataifi Prawns and Tiramisu French Toast showcase the café’s willingness to blend familiar flavours with creative presentation. The coffee programme is equally expansive, featuring everything from V60 pour-overs and cortados to flavour-forward creations like Mango Matcha, Black Sesame Latte and Salted Caramel Espresso Oat Latte. What makes RumBabaa stand out is its emotional warmth. It doesn’t rely on spectacle or excess, instead offering a slower, more mindful hospitality experience where good music, thoughtful food and excellent coffee come together effortlessly. Quietly stylish and deeply comforting, RumBabaa feels like the kind of neighbourhood café Mumbai didn’t realise it needed. What: ButterBrewsWhere: Pune Pune’s café culture continues to evolve, and ButterBrews’ newest outpost in Aundh arrives with a format that feels larger, more polished and intentionally experience-driven. Designed as an all-day café built around comfort and community, the new space balances functionality with warmth through thoughtfully divided indoor, outdoor