Meghana HarikumarMysuru: The heritage city has always been more than just a city—it’s a mood, a memory, a meandering through heritage-laden streets, jasmine-scented markets, and centuries-old palaces. As one of Karnataka’s most culturally rich destinations, it’s a place where tradition and elegance hold hands. And now, adding a modern flourish to this timeless city is KA 16, the newly launched rooftop dining experience at ibis Styles Mysuru.
Perched atop the hotel, KA 16 is a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. It’s where Mysuru’s gentle breeze meets plush outdoor seating, where sunsets cast golden glows over cocktails, and where Karnataka’s age-old recipes are plated with a playful, contemporary touch. With space for 40 diners, the restaurant offers a stunning view of the cityscape while serving up something equally breathtaking: a menu that redefines local cuisine.
What makes KA 16 special is its rootedness in Karnataka’s culinary soul. Every dish feels familiar but exciting, like an old song remixed just right. The KA-16 Ghee Roast Chicken is spicy, rich, and deeply nostalgic, while the Tuppa Meen Masala Anna brings together coastal and temple-town influences in one bowl of fragrant comfort. And then there are surprising innovations like the Mysore Bonda Soup—an ingenious spin that wraps a beloved teatime snack in the elegance of a plated starter.
But KA 16 isn’t just about food—it’s a vibe. Designed as a relaxed, open-air escape, it’s equally ideal for quiet dinners under the stars and lively gatherings with friends. There’s indoor seating too, but the rooftop patio is where the magic lives, especially when paired with one of their signature cocktails.
The drink menu is as much a love letter to Karnataka as the food. Cocktails like the Black-Headed Ibis, Indian Roller, and Stork-Billed Kingfisher aren’t just delicious—they carry with them the essence of Karnataka’s natural beauty, each named after birds that frequent the region’s lush landscapes. If you’re skipping the spirits, mocktails like the Brindavan Bliss, Sandalwood Spritzer, and Lalit Mahal Fizz do a charming job of bottling Mysuru’s personality in every sip.
As Ganeshram Iyer, Hotel Manager at ibis Styles Mysuru, puts it, “KA 16 brings Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage to life with a contemporary twist, offering an innovative take on local flavors. With its inviting ambiance, panoramic views, and thoughtfully crafted menu, KA 16 reimagines outdoor dining in Mysuru.”
In a city where heritage is celebrated at every corner—from the grandeur of the Mysore Palace to the humble perfection of a Mysore masala dosa—KA 16 finds its place not by replicating the old, but by honouring it with modern creativity. It’s not just a restaurant. It’s a new chapter in Mysuru’s evolving culinary story—one that invites you to sit back, look out over the city, and taste Karnataka in a whole new way.
Editor
Meghana Harikumar
