Sunny Dua
In a seamless blend of refinement and timeless hospitality, Vivanta, the eminent jewel in the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) portfolio, stands as a tribute to the visionary Jamsetji Tata, who established the first iconic Taj hotel in Mumbai in 1903. Now, in a poignant testament to its enduring legacy, Vivanta graces Jammu – The City of Temples, enveloping the sacred city with its culinary delights, warm hospitality, and a seasoned staff. Nestled along the storied Maharaja Gulab Singh Marg, the hotel finds its rightful place of honour, further enriching the cultural tapestry of this revered city.
Brought in the town by eminent industrialist Raju Choudhary of KC Group, Vivanta emerges as a symphony for the senses, a sanctuary for food connoisseurs, and a haven of unparalleled hospitality that leaves an indelible imprint on its guests – a phenomenon reverentially termed “Tajness” by its esteemed hosts. IHCL which has earned the distinction of being the world’s renowned and one of the oldest hospitality companies and also having India’s strongest brand Taj under its umbrella now through Vivanta offers its patrons an unforgettable culinary odyssey and hosting within the embrace of its iconic spaces.
SEASONED WITH LOVE-VII
Exquisitely curated realms of restaurant ‘Mynt’, adorned with artistry that whispers rather than shouts, and banquet halls bearing names steeped in elegance – The Imperial Ballroom, Rendezvous, Tango and Strategy – each with an intimate capacity ranging from an intimate gathering of 50 to a grand assembly of 500 guests. Having made a mark in indoor and Outdoor Catering (ODC), Vivanta is all geared up to take the culinary experience anywhere in Jammu where hosts intend to entertain their guests lavishly and on any occasion.
‘Mynt’ offers a culinary odyssey from Sunrise to Starlight. Located in the heart of Jammu, where the sun’s first rays kiss the earth, lies ‘Mynt’ – an all-day restaurant that exhales warmth until the moon takes its throne. It’s a haven for those seeking both local comfort and global culinary classics. From the moment one steps inside, ‘Mynt’, it dazzles the senses with an unparalleled breakfast experience. The menu reads like a gastronomic adventure, featuring organic cereals, an assortment of healthy fruit, tree nuts and nutrient rich edible seeds, delicate imported French croissants and varieties of morning bakeries crafted with T55 flour for a protein-rich embrace in the breakfast. Mediterranean Mezze platter, low fat milk, lactose free milk, freshly brewed Lavazza coffee, smoothies and shakes, choice of fresh fruits and juices, virgin Mary to detox in the morning, egg preparations like egg benedict, south Indian & north Indian specialties top the list.
Delightful symphonies of flavours continue with the likes of hot smoked salmon, a testament to ‘Mynt’s’ dedication to providing an omega-3 rich journey for its patrons. For those in search of an authentic touch, fresh Himalayan honeycomb and Greek yogurt stand tall, ensuring every bite tells a story of quality and tradition.
As the day progresses, ‘Mynt’s’ culinary prowess only grows stronger. Lunch and dinner beckon with Lobster in XO sauce and the mutton ‘Rogan Josh’, painting a portrait of a kitchen that cherishes diversity. For dessert, the ‘Waffle-Wich’, a delightful play on tradition, and the heavenly ‘Jammu Gadbad’ – a symphony of sweets, beckon guests to revel in their collective indulgence. Stepping beyond the plates, ‘Mynt’s’ ambience welcomes with open arms, boasting vast windows that invite natural light to dance across the room. With a seating capacity of 66+ and an additional charming outdoor space for 24, it’s a sanctuary for travellers, social gatherings, and corporate endeavours alike. Whether for a quick on-the-go breakfast, a relaxed corporate meeting, or a leisurely morning to relish, ‘Mynt’ crafts an experience that encapsulates the essence of a vibrant start to the day. The menu spans the globe, with Asian, European, and Indian treasures, including regional Kashmiri and Dogri specialties, like the legendary ‘Khatta meat’ and soul-soothing ‘Rista’.
Ujjawal Bhimwal, General Manager Vivanta, Jammu City Centre believes that ‘Mynt’ is not merely a restaurant; it’s a celebration of authenticity, a dance of flavours, and a canvas of memories waiting to be painted. In each meticulously curated dish, in every detail, lies a dedication to excellence. It’s a testament to the belief that a meal is not just sustenance, but an art form, a journey, and a moment in time. He adds, “Dining experience at ‘Mynt’ is great – all across Vivanta hotels we maintain consistency in quality and taste. The place with wide and floor to ceiling windows gives an open feel and nice view of the Jammu city located on banks of river Tawi and Trikuta hills”.
Another jewel in crown, ‘Wink’, a snug haven for those seeking a contemporary twist on classic libations. ‘Wink’ exudes the timeless charm of an English pub along the banks of the River Thames, its polished wood and inviting ambience beckoning you to unwind and savor the moment. Bhopinder Langeh, F&B In- charge revealed, “With seating for up to 30 patrons, you’ll find yourself seamlessly at home in this classic bar, with an experience tailored for the new age and modern palate”.
He said, “At ‘Wink’, libations are an art form, each cocktail and mocktail a testament to authenticity and creativity. Indulge in a symphony of flavours with offerings like the Dragon Martini, Butterfly Wink, and the uplifting Strawberry Mojito. As day fades into evening, ‘Wink’ graciously extends its Happy Hours from 1300 hrs to 2030 hrs, ensuring that time spent here is a leisurely, uninterrupted affair. Step into this intimate space, where every detail whispers of a time-honoured tradition of conviviality”.
The essence of ‘Wink’ lies not only in its meticulously crafted drinks but also in the feeling of belonging, of finding solace in the company of kindred spirits. Experience a relaxed and social evening, where the spirit of camaraderie flows as freely as the libations themselves. At ‘Wink’, time slows, and the world beyond fades away, leaving only the moment, the company, and the embrace of warm, polished wood. To add to the ambience; warm lighting, beautiful décor and music plays a wonderful symphony.
Beneath the cosmic canopy, “6 Senses” at Vivanta unveils itself as an ethereal realm tailor-made for celestial celebrations. Its rooftop expanse bestows an aura of theatricality upon the sacred union of two souls. “For those who have chosen the opulent embrace of our Imperial Ballroom for their familial nuptials, ‘6 Senses’ emerges as the perfect symphony, harmonizing in flawless companionship”, said Rahul Bakshi, sales manager, Vivanta.
Ujjawal Bhimwal cited that Vivanta reflects IHCL’s core values of trust, awareness, and joy and it’s establishment in Jammu is well positioned in a culturally rich and demographically promising region to enable guests experience top-notch services and an impeccable hospitality. IHCL’s youthful brand Vivanta is finely attuned to the preferences of the current generation in terms of offerings, style, and hospitality, he asserted adding that the newly renovated lobby of property in Jammu also showcases the cultural convergence of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh in an artwork created by artist and an avid art lover Madhu Kuthiala. She has cared to depict three major rivers Tawi, Jhelum and Indus using artistic elements, ably. While, traditional Jammu heritage pictures welcome guests, safety measures include heavy-duty scanners, digital and contactless check-ins for convenience. The corridors feature highlights of prominent tourist destinations, providing a vivid sense of Jammu and Kashmir’s unique character.
( The author is senior journalist and food blogger)
Follow our WhatsApp channel
