‘I believe in creating my own identity’: Arpita Khan Sharma on her love for food, new culinary venture, and bond with brothers | Lifestyle News

Imagine being surrounded stalwarts of Indian cinema — Salim Khan, Helen, and Salman Khan — and yet choosing a path away from the camera to build something of her own. That is what Arpita Khan Sharma has done. Taking her love for hospitality further, Arpita Khan Sharma — known for hosting lavish Iftar and Ganesh Utsav celebrations — has co-founded Mercii, a luxury European dining destination in Mumbai.In an exclusive conversation with , she talks about her journey, her love for food, the inspiration behind Mercii, and the brother she shares the most laughs with (spoiler: it’s not Salman Khan). She also shared some childhood memories, what food means for the Khan-Sharma family, and balancing career and motherhood. Read the edited excerpts below:
Q. Despite growing up in a film family, you chose to create your own path. Tell us about your journey.
Arpita Khan Sharma: Cinema was always a huge part of my world, but I felt a pull toward exploring my passions and creating something uniquely mine. I believe in creating my own identity, whether through interior design or, now, hospitality. My journey has been about discovering what truly excites me, learning, evolving, and embracing new opportunities. I’ve always been driven a desire to create something meaningful, and that’s what has guided me.
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Q. You’ve added another feather to your entrepreneurial cap with Mercii. What can guests expect?
Arpita Khan Sharma: Mercii is incredibly close to my heart—something I’ve envisioned for a long time. I’m grateful to be on this journey with partners Ketul Parikh, Gaurav Parikh, Vicky Chugh, and Anuj Chugh. It’s an extension of my home and my first step into the hospitality industry. At Mercii, you can expect exceptional food, ultra-luxe interiors, amazing cocktails, and, most importantly, a warm, personalised experience that makes every visit special.

Q. Take us through the menu, the decor, and your personal favourites.
Arpita Khan Sharma: The menu reflects my culinary journey, developed in collaboration with our talented Chef Dennis Koll after countless tastings. It’s inspired my travels across Europe and some of my favourite dining experiences in Dubai. Among my favourites are the vibrant Mushroom Ceviche, the delicate Asparagus Carpaccio, the indulgent Four Cheese Pizza, the rich Truffle Pasta, and the flavourful Garlic Prawns. The interiors are designed to captivate the senses—airy spaces, stunning Klove lights, a luxurious bathroom, and a soothing colour palette. I’m also incredibly proud of our cocktail menu; my current favourite is the refreshing Tomatine.
Q. What role does food play in the Khan-Sharma family?
Arpita Khan Sharma: Food is an integral part of our family. It is a language of love, a reason to celebrate, and a way to connect. Our best memories are made around shared meals.
Q. While you may have officially ventured into the hospitality industry now, your Ganesh Utsav and Iftar parties are the talk of the town. Tell us about your passion for hospitality.
Arpita Khan Sharma: I love hosting—it’s something that comes naturally to me. Having my family and loved ones over reminds me of my childhood in Galaxy Apartments and the barkat (blessing) it carried. I want my home to feel like an extension of my parents’ house—filled with the same warmth and energy. I love ensuring everyone eats well, enjoys their favourites, tries something new, and ends on a sweet note with a delicious dessert. It’s about creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.

Q. What do mealtimes at home look like? How do they compare to your childhood?
Arpita Khan Sharma: Honestly, not much has changed! We still eat our favourite dishes, and mom still sends food over, so there’s always that sense of comfort and nostalgia. The table is always full, and the spread is always lavish—because for us, food is all about love, warmth, and sharing.
Q. You’ve been a styl, an interior designer, and now an entrepreneur. Which role do you enjoy the most?
Arpita Khan Sharma: While I studied fashion, I never pursued it professionally. Instead, I channelled my love for design into interiors. I love designing homes and personal spaces, it brings me immense joy. At the same time, I’m fully embracing my journey as an entrepreneur and looking forward to new ventures.Story continues below this ad
Q. How do you balance all these roles while being a mother to two young children?
Arpita Khan Sharma: I wouldn’t call it challenging—Ahil and Ayat are incredible, and my biggest cheerleaders. With the unwavering support of my husband, family, and friends, I’ve been able to balance my roles, and that makes the journey all the more rewarding.

Q. Do you seek professional advice from your brothers––Salman, Sohail, and Arbaaz? Who are you closest to, and whom do you play pranks on the most?
Arpita Khan Sharma: I discuss almost everything with my brothers and often seek their advice on various aspects of my life. I love and respect all three equally, but if I had to pick, I’d say I share a little more and joke around the most with Sohail bhai.
Q. Since we’re discussing food, do you follow a strict diet? Any guilty indulgences?
Arpita Khan Sharma: Hahaha, does it look like I follow a strict diet? I believe in enjoying life’s pleasures, especially when it comes to food. I indulge without guilt.