Sunny Dua
sunnydua55@gmail.com
There are restaurants that feed you well, and then there are those that alter your sense of place. Mei Skye, the rooftop poolside lounge at Vivanta Jammu City Centre, belongs decisively to the latter. It is not simply a dining venue perched atop a hotel; it is a carefully imagined experience that brings together architecture, skyline, fire, water, flavour and feeling – so seamlessly that leaving feels almost premature.
In a city where culinary spaces have traditionally remained grounded, Mei Skye dares to look upward. And in doing so, it has quietly redefined what rooftop dining in Jammu can be.
A design that breathes light and space
Step inside Mei Skye and the first impression is one of lightness-not just visual, but emotional. The interiors are flooded with natural daylight, courtesy expansive glass panels that frame the horizon rather than block it. The colour palette is calming and confident: soft whites, pale blues, muted neutrals and warm wooden textures. Together, they create an atmosphere that feels open, unhurried and gently luxurious.
The design language subtly recalls Mediterranean coastal dining spaces – think Santorini or the French Riviera – where air and light are integral to the experience. At the same time, the clean geometry, minimal clutter and structured seating echo modern Asian lounges seen in Singapore or Hong Kong. This fusion gives Mei Skye a global sensibility without stripping it of warmth.
The architectural lattice ceiling deserves special mention. Light yet intricate, it adds rhythm and dimension overhead, creating the illusion of a stylised canopy rather than a solid roof. Pendant lights hang gracefully, casting a warm glow after sunset and transforming the space without altering its character.
Seating that understands people
Mei Skye’s seating arrangement reflects thoughtful intent rather than decorative impulse. Communal tables invite families and groups to share space comfortably, while intimate two-seaters cater to couples seeking quiet conversations. There are also relaxed sofa-style arrangements that encourage guests to lean back, slow down and stay longer.
The teal-accented chairs, cushioned and ergonomically designed, add a gentle pop of colour without disrupting the overall harmony. The flooring – wood-toned with a slightly weathered texture – grounds the space, lending warmth and approachability to what could otherwise feel too polished.
Potted greens are placed sparingly, softening the geometry and lending freshness. Nothing here is excessive; everything serves a purpose.
The rooftop poolside: Drama, fire and water
If the interiors are refined and calm, the outdoor poolside rooftop is where Mei Skye turns theatrical. The infinity pool stretches confidently across the terrace, its deep blue surface reflecting the sky by day and city lights by night. Surrounding it is a striking hexagonal-patterned floor, rich in tone and texture, instantly elevating the visual drama.
Plush loungers and low tables line the pool, evoking luxury rooftops in Dubai, Bangkok or Bali, where evenings stretch long and conversations flow easily. Yet what anchors this experience firmly in Jammu is the view.
From here, the city unfolds generously. The River Tawi winds its way below, bridges glow softly after dusk, and Bahu Fort stands illuminated, a reminder of history amidst modern indulgence. As night deepens, Mei Skye begins to dominate the skyline. Five flaming mashals, burning steadily along the edge of the rooftop, rise against the dark sky. These flames are visible from afar, turning the restaurant into a beacon-an unmistakable presence above the city.
Fire, water and sky interact effortlessly here, creating an ambience that is both celebratory and intimate.
Day to night: A seamless transformation
Few restaurants manage the transition from day to night as gracefully as Mei Skye. Daytime is relaxed, bright and expansive-ideal for leisurely lunches, early dinners or reflective conversations under open skies. The view is calming, the atmosphere almost resort-like.
Nighttime, however, is when Mei Skye truly asserts itself. Lighting softens, flames glow brighter, reflections ripple across the pool, and the rooftop acquires a cinematic quality. It becomes romantic without being contrived, lively without being loud. Time slows here, often unnoticed.
The Food: A global journey with an Indian soul
While the setting draws you in, it is the food that ensures you return. Mei Skye’s menu is an ambitious yet confident exploration of Indo-Asian and global fusion cuisine, spanning South Asia, China, Japan and Korea. It is not fusion for novelty’s sake, but for balance-respecting Asian cooking technique, ingredient and palate.
The journey begins with handcrafted dim sums that immediately set the tone. The Truffle Edamame Dim Sum is indulgent and aromatic, while the Pakchoi and Feta Kothe bridges East and West with surprising ease. Non-vegetarian offerings like Lemongrass Chicken Dim Sums, Chicken Pan-Fried Kothe, Crystal Prawn Dumplings, and Steamed Lamb Coriander Dumplings are delicate yet robust in flavour.
Small plates live up to their promise of big impact. Thai Pani Puri is playful and refreshing, while the Schezwan Bhel Burrata Mash-up is bold, textured and deeply satisfying. Refined options like Beetroot and Feta Carpaccio and Zucchini with Pomegranate Molasses showcase restraint and finesse.
Sushi, Skewers and Crisp indulgences
The skewers, flame-kissed and globally marinated, pair perfectly with the rooftop’s fire-lit ambience. Sushi lovers are well catered to, with options ranging from Asparagus Tempura Rolls and Crispy Vegetable Sushi to Hot Smoked Salmon and Barbeque Chicken Rolls. More adventurous creations like Sriracha Paneer, Dynamite Chicken, and Crispy Corn Salt & Pepper Sushi deliver bold, confident flavours.
The Fritto Misto-style section-Italian in inspiration, Asian in execution-offers addictive bites such as Tempura with Spicy Wasabi Mayo, Honey Chilli Lotus Stem, Rock Shrimp, and Fried Sushi, striking a perfect balance between indulgence and elegance.
Comfort bowls, hot pots and soul food
For those seeking warmth and depth, the Hearty Bowls provide comfort with global flair-Harira Cantonese-Style Lamb, Chicken Wonton, and Rassam Thai-Style preparations that feel both familiar and exciting. The Hot Pots, rich in broth and gravies, pair beautifully with steamed rice or silky noodles.
The Bibimbap section stands out for its interactive approach-guests can choose bases and sauces, from Spicy Korean to Butter Garlic Pepper, mixed with vegetables or chicken and served with sticky rice. It is flavour-first dining done right.
Comfort classics like Nasi Goreng and Burnt Garlic Fried Rice are executed with precision, proving that simplicity, when done well, can be deeply satisfying.
Sweet endings and lingering evenings
Desserts provide fitting conclusions without overwhelming the palate. Date Pancake, Chilled Mango Pudding, Tender Coconut Ice Cream in Waffle Shells, and Honey Nut Crunch with Salted Caramel offer comfort with a modern edge. The Yamcha selection adds a refined nod to tea-time traditions, perfect for winding down under the stars.
Service and the reluctance to leave
Service at Mei Skye is attentive, informed and unobtrusive. The staff understands the rhythm of the place-never rushing, always anticipating. It is this combination of food, ambience and service that creates a subtle resistance to departure. Guests often find themselves ordering one more dish, staying one more hour, planning the next visit before the current one ends.
Mei Skye is more than a rooftop restaurant; it is Jammu’s elevated dining moment. With its globally inspired design, commanding skyline views, poolside drama, fire-lit nights and a menu that travels continents, it offers an experience that feels rare and complete. You may arrive for the view, but you return for the feeling-the sense that some places are not meant to be rushed, only revisited.
(The writer is senior journalist and food blogger)
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