Scarlet House Sparks Price Debate in Mumbai

Bollywood actress Malaika Arora has successfully ventured beyond the silver screen into the business world, with her premium dining venture ‘Scarlet House’ in Bandra, Mumbai, recently becoming the centre of social media attention. The restaurant has sparked heated debates among netizens, primarily over the comparatively high prices of everyday dishes.

Housed in a 90-year-old Portuguese bungalow spanning approximately 2,500 square feet, Scarlet House is co-owned by Malaika and her son Arhaan Khan, with the duo holding 50 per cent of the establishment. Designed to appeal to health-conscious diners, the restaurant’s menu reflects Malaika’s personal dietary preferences, focusing on nutritious and balanced meals. Yet, the pricing has left many patrons surprised.

The menu includes seemingly ordinary dishes at premium prices, such as a plate of spiced khichdi for INR 550 (roughly BDT 750), avocado toast for INR 625, a signature salad for INR 720, and Ludhiana-style butter chicken for INR 750. Drinks have similarly raised eyebrows, with bottled water priced at INR 350 (BDT 475) and a special beetroot and fenugreek concoction at INR 450 (BDT 610). For those seeking luxury indulgences, Scarlet House also offers champagne and cocktails priced at approximately INR 29,000 (BDT 39,000+) per bottle.

The following table summarises some of the restaurant’s highlighted offerings and their approximate prices:

With around 100 seats, Scarlet House has rapidly gained popularity among Bollywood celebrities, thanks to its modern décor and aesthetic appeal. Malaika has emphasised that the menu is a reflection of her own commitment to a healthy lifestyle, combining taste with nutrition.

Several high-profile actors have already been spotted dining at Scarlet House, but public discussions around the high prices of otherwise ordinary dishes continue unabated. While some view it as an exclusive luxury experience tailored for an affluent clientele, others question the justification for such costs.

Food critics note that premium restaurants in Mumbai often charge elevated prices, particularly when quality, ambience, and celebrity association are factored in. Nonetheless, Scarlet House remains a talking point, offering a blend of gourmet health-conscious cuisine and celebrity charm, making it both admired and debated in equal measure.