Scarlett House’s Caramelised Onion Pasta Is Comfort In A Bowl

I’ll admit that as much as I love discovering great dining spots, I hate the thought of stepping out of the house. This puts me in a tough spot—one that I reconcile by ordering in. However, with Scarlett House’s newest outpost in Juhu, I may have struck a lucky deal. Wondering how? Let me tell you. 

Cozy Corners 

I am not the one for huge spaces and high ceilings. But lots of natural light and cosy corners? Sign me up! Scarlett House in Juhu is nothing like its branch in Pali Village, sparing the signature deep-red and white façade. Unlike the first restaurant, which is housed in a charming two-storey old mansion, the new one in Juhu is within what once was a film studio. However, there’s barely any sign of that past life. 

The founders’ resolve to make it as homely as possible has made this space look like a cosy cabin up in the hills—think cute wall art in colourful frames, vintage-styled light fixtures, exposed brick walls, and decor accents that will instantly set you off on a nostalgic trip. I certainly was on one, at once feeling comfortable like at home and still out! 

However, if you’re more sprightly than I am, the outdoor space at Scarlett House is right up your alley. If you’re worried about the bewitching Mumbai heat and humidity, drop it. While still indoors, the transparent roof lets ample natural light float in, setting a perfect vibe for a hearty and healthy brunch after your morning run. The hydration bar located here just adds to the reason—here, you can order from a range of healthy and immunity-boosting concoctions. 

What’s On The Menu?

Like the vibe, the menu is all about flavours that are warm, indulgent, and comforting. Thoughtfully curated to kind of give you a peek into what comes out of Malaika Arora Khan’s kitchen, the menu does not stick to a specific cuisine but reveals a lot about what the actor and co-founder loves. 

We, of course, started with the Instagram-famous Paneer Thecha that lived up to the hype. I am not a fan of cottage cheese, but this spicy Maharashtrian spin made me reach out for seconds. Another appetiser that I enjoyed thoroughly was the Edamame Phylo Mousse. Shaped like tiny tarts and filled with edamame flavoured cream cheese, this fused two textures I go weak in the knees for—crunchy and creamy. 

For the main course, we found ourselves digging into the Caramelised Onion Pasta and the Malabar Prawn Curry served with steamed rice. As a devoted seafood-lover, I expected to steer towards the latter, but I couldn’t resist the umami of the creamy caramelised onion pasta. Inspired by Arora’s travels and created for her son Arhaan Khan (who is also a co-founder, along with Dhaval Udeshi and Malaya Nagpal), the pasta does feel like something you’d whip up if you really, really love the person you’re making it for. It is cheesy, slurpy, indulgent, and a worthy guilty pleasure.  

Another win at Scarlett House is the fun and engaging cocktail program spearheaded by Fay Barretto. The cocktail menu at Scarlett House is designed like a crossword, and choosing your drink involves spotting a word. Each word has been interpreted by Barretto into a flavourful drink that’s not overwhelming despite the quirky flavours. I went ahead with ‘Power,’ featuring Bombay Sapphire gin, truffle, ricotta rosso, and strawberry fig leaf shrub—a perfect mix if you like your drinks not too sweet. 

All in all, the new Scarlett House in Juhu is a perfect spot for days you want to go out but keep it low-key, while delivering on all the fronts like good food, playful drinks, and a vibe that feels just like home.