Shilpa Shetty's New Culinary Venture Shakes Up Mumbai Dining Scene
Iconic actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra continues to expand her footprint beyond Bollywood as she opens her latest restaurant, marking another exciting chapter for her Bastian Hospitality Group.
On December 18, 2022, Shetty's Bastian Hospitality unveiled Bastian Chinois, located in Lower Parel, Mumbai, which aimed to serve exquisite Asian cuisine under the guidance of renowned chef Hemant Oberoi. Yet, just over a month later, by January 29, the restaurant abruptly shut down, with the management candidly citing the need for transformation.
Ranjit Bindra, CEO of Bastian Hospitality, addressed the closure directly, explaining, "While we poured our passion and energy to create Chinois, your feedback indicated it didn’t meet the benchmark we desire. This realization prompted us to rethink our approach. The product truly matters.” He emphasized the restaurant's goal was to provide nostalgic Mumbai flavors to their guests, but inconsistency led to the decision to pivot.
The former Asian inspired restaurant has now been reborn as 'inka,' which sets to open its doors on February 28, 2023. Led by Peruvian chef Kinyo Rodas Tristan, the restaurant combines Peruvian and Asian flavors, offering diners something unique within the vibrant Mumbai food scene.
The dining space, encompassing 6,000 square feet and seating 200, is distinguished by its immersive design. Minal Chopra, the interior designer, envisioned the restaurant to evoke the thrill of exploring the wild, integrating indigenous and modern graphic elements. The black and earthy palette is accentuated with bold patterns, geometric motifs, and tribal sculptures, creating both drama and sophistication. Bindra described the atmosphere as intended to transport patrons on “a holiday from their daily routine.”
The innovative menu at inka is split between three sections—Mar (sea), Montana (mountain), and Basque (forest)—featuring eclectic starters, sushi, and signature main dishes. We sampled various offerings, such as the refreshing Suika Salad made with watermelon and the Alphonso Ceviche, infused with vibrant flavors and textures. Though some dishes showed potential, several others highlighted areas of improvement, particularly the Shiitake Goma Salad, which fell short on flavor.
Beyond the culinary changes, the recent Maha Shivratri celebration also showcased Shetty’s enduring connection with her cultural roots. Bollywood figures, including Shilpa Shetty and Kareena Kapoor, took to social media to celebrate this auspicious occasion with heartfelt messages, reflecting on spirituality and excited devotion.
Shetty's Instagram revealed her Mahashivratri wish: "Where there is devotion, there is dignity. Where there is Shiva, there is eternity. May this Mahashivratri awaken the light within you.” This resonates with many followers, uniting them through shared beliefs and aspirations during religious celebrations.
On the festive side, many actresses turned heads with their saree looks this season, but Shilpa Shetty stood out with her exquisite green and golden drape, perfectly embodying the spirit of the occasion. This seasonal celebration added another dimension to her public persona, blending high fashion with cultural tradition.
Meanwhile, as notable celebrities like Akshay Kumar, Vicky Kaushal, and Rani Mukerji also shared their Mahashivratri wishes, the day served not only to celebrate deities but also to highlight unity within the film fraternity. The gathering of stars expressing collective beliefs and inspirations adds depth to the festive atmosphere.
From the culinary transformation at her restaurant to her vibrancy amid traditional commitments, Shilpa Shetty continues to capitalize on the intersection of her professional endeavors and personal beliefs, reinforcing her status as both a Bollywood icon and cultural influencer.
Overall, the recent months have marked significant developments for Shilpa Shetty both within the culinary industry and the heart of the film community, emphasizing her role as more than just an actress, but as someone contributing meaningfully to Mumbai's vibrant lifestyle and cultural fabric.