At Sector V’s newest restaurant, the aroma of spices mingles with the spirit of cultural exploration. Entrepreneur Apeksha Lahiri has ingeniously infused the essence of Morocco’s vibrant bazaars into her creation: Five & Dime - Skybar & Dining. It is nestled within a sprawling 2,200sq ft space on the 15th floor of The Meridian, a commercial building in the centre of Salt Lake’s IT hub (next to Webel). Five & Dime blends indoor and outdoor seating areas, while the menu celebrates the diverse flavours of Morocco, India, and the world beyond, with a special emphasis on vegetarian dishes.
A Moroccan oasis indoors
The indoor seating
As you step into the 15th floor of The Meridian, you are welcomed by intricately designed chairs and lanterns, and a painting depicting two Moroccan vendors that immediately transports you to a Souk. The tiles are adorned with a distinct style, harmonising with the 16-foot-long bar. The indoor section also features a DJ booth, and scattered dining tables, catering to both clubbing and family-friendly dining experiences. Apeksha Lahiri, the director of Five & Dime, highlights the versatility of the venue, mentioning that the sofa seating area can be transformed into a private section for larger groups.
Al fresco seating with a picturesque view
The cosy outdoor dining space
The outdoor section boasts four distinct seating options, including plush sofas, inviting swing cabanas, high seating, and classic chairs. On a pleasant day, dining al fresco allows guests to savour their meals while enjoying the picturesque view of neighbouring fisheries. The outdoor area complements the Moroccan theme with its charming red stone aesthetics.
A vision inspired by Moroccan marketplaces
L-R: Dining with a view at Five & Dime, and the restaurant's director Apeksha Lahiri
“Although I haven’t been to Morocco, I extensively researched their marketplaces and wanted to capture that theme. The decor and overall look of the place are inspired by Moroccan markets. We aim to create an inclusive space that welcomes everyone throughout the day, without catering to a specific crowd,” said Apeksha Lahiri, director, Five & Dime - Skybar & Dining.
Pop picks on the menu
L-R: Dajaj Moroccan, and drinks Green Blast and Blackcurrant Mojito
The menu is a fusion of tastes. From the zesty Green Blast, a sweet and sour green apple concoction, to the surprising Blackcurrant Mojito, which combines the flavours of blackcurrant, mint, and lime, each sip is an adventure.
But the real magic lies in the food. The Dajaj Moroccan is spin-off of a Moroccan classic, featuring succulent chicken pieces marinated in a blend of masalas. The leading flavour in every bite? Cinnamon! The side of tangy harissa sauce adds an extra kick.
It would be a shame to not use your hands for the Tangri Kebab. Slow-cooked in a tandoori clay pot, the meat falls off the bone.
For a vegetarian option, indulge in the Kolokiti, where the zucchini and brinjal fritters are seasoned with a peri peri mix that adds a burst of flavour with every bite.
L-R: Kolokiti and Mughlai Chicken
Pair the Mughlai Chicken with the Veg Hyderabadi Biryani, where the fried masala in the biryani adds a robust punch to the gravied Mughlai chicken.
The Kute Mirchi Ki Paneer Tikka has paneer as soft as pillows. Each bite has a spicy lingering kick that is mellowed by the accompanying mint chutney.
L-R: Kute Mirchi Ki Paneer Tikka, and Veg Hyderabadi Biryani
Five & Dime - Skybar & Dining
Address: The Meridian, Netguru, E2/5, GP Block, Sector V
Open: Tuesday to Sunday. Alcohol is served on Friday and Saturday only.
Ongoing promotions: Saturdays are Ladies’ Nights with free shots for ladies. On Sundays, the skybar is offering unlimited alcohol for 45 minutes for Rs 855. Host a Corporate Night on Fridays to avail 30 per cent off your bill.