Jai's Contemporary Fusion Cuisine
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Hours
Mon
6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Tue
6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Wed
6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Thu
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Fri
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sat
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
5.0
Travelers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Contemporary, Healthy, Fusion, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Special occasions, Romantic, Business meetings
Does this place accept credit cards?
Details
About
Jai’s culinary journey began over 14 years ago when he spent most of his free time in the kitchen. From helping his mom and experimenting with different flavors, spices, and dishes, Jai soon discovered his ever-growing passion for food. He started off working with Chef Dino Jagtiani at Temptation for three years and went on to develop his skills at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Following his educational career, Jai has experienced the bustling food industry in New York City, putting his skill sets to use at several restaurants including Tabla, Oceana, North End Grill, Tuome, and The Bombay Bread Bar. After 13 years of being away from Sint Maarten, Jai decided to bring his culinary talent back home. By combining flavors from his heritage with his years of experience, Jai’s Contemporary Indian Cuisine is aimed to redefine the dining scene on the island. Now open!
CUISINES
Contemporary, Fusion, Healthy
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Free Wifi, Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Non-smoking restaurants
Contribute
5.0
290 reviews
Excellent
269
Very good
14
Average
4
Poor
2
Terrible
1
Marjorie M
12 contributions
Feb 2022 • family
This is the only time I have ever reviewed a restaurant. Jai has earned my respect. Everything we ordered (Beet salad, Byriani Shrimp, Lobster Thermidor-like no other, or and the braised ribs was remarkable. Jai’s art is to use bold flavors in precisely balanced ways to create a palette that is both novel and familiar at the same time; genius! The baklava with rose water cream and pistachio ice cream was beautiful, delicious, authentic, and worth the trip to Simpson Bay! Bravo and Salute! We will be back.
Only 15% gratuity is included and the service is perfect so throw some $$$ down for the staff, please.
Written March 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ItalyLovers4Ever_10
233 contributions
Jan 2023 • couples
We haven’t been to SXM since 2020, pre-pandemic, so we were interested to see which of our favorite restaurants were still open, and what new restaurants had replaced them. One of the “new” restaurants ( open two years) that we went to was Jai’s Contemporary Fusion, and it did not disappoint. The interior dining room, with an open kitchen, was tastefully done, in a modern style, but it was a bit small with not many tables. Since we arrived without a reservation, we were relegated to the outside dining area, which was perfectly fine, and maybe preferable given the beautiful climate. The wait staff was very attentive and friendly, and patient in explaining the daily specials that were offered in addition to the regular menu. The food, a fusion of Indian and Caribbean spices and ingredients, was artfully prepared and very filled with flavors. We had the Chicken Tikka Marsala, served with white rice, and glazed Salmon on an eggplant purée with roasted fennel. We also ordered a side of roasted broccoli with garlic. Spectacular! We finished with a scoop of homemade pistachio ice cream, and coffee. It is not an inexpensive restaurant, but if you want a special treat while in St Maarten, this is definitely a place to consider. We will be back!
Written January 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Drew
Sint Maarten2 contributions
Jun 2021 • family
This is not your traditional Indian restaurant. It’s an an Indian fusion with a modern take on traditional Indian dishes and Indian flare added to non Indian dishes. We had the Buffalo cauliflower, tandoori chicken sliders, duck breast, braised ribs; and lobster tail.
The Buffalo cauliflower was on the spicy side, but it wasn’t spicy to be spicy, it was spicy with flavor. Our son who hates spicy food was asking for more of the cauliflower after it was done. The flavors of the Tandoori chicken sliders complimented each other very well.
Our son, the duck connoisseur, had the duck beast - now says this duck is his favorite duck, period. It was perfectly tender with a crispy skin and the black garlic oil really brings out the flavor of the duck.
My wife was skeptical of the braised ribs, but she ended up loving them. The ribs are the large St. Louis style pork ribs. You could pull the meat off the bone with just the fork and flavors were in the meat itself not just the sauce.
I had the lobster. It was tender enough to be cut with just the fork, but I used my knife because I was wanted to make sure every bite had the sauce, corn nibs, and fried fenugreek.
We had a bottle of the Chateau du Beaune with our dinner and it complimented every dish In a different way. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks their Indian lemonade is a nice spin on traditional lemonade. It had hints of Indian spices added to it, but make sure to ask for a straw to stir the spices in.
For dessert, we had the Kulfi of the day, mango kulfi with mini gulab jamun. And we had the Sizzler. The kulfi and mini gulab jamun were great with each other. If you’re a fan of lava cake you’ll enjoy their sizzler. It’s a brownie with a consistency and texture very similar to a lava cake. The syrup poured over it complimented the chocolate very well.
The service was good. Our server was very knowledgeable about the food and was able to perfectly describe every dish we asked about.
We’ll definitely be back.
Written June 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
360nirt
London4 contributions
Aug 2021 • family
The decor and ambience at Jai’s is perfect for an intimate evening in a small or large group. Modern, classy and elegant!
I tried several dishes and what a delight for the palette. Every dish is bursting with flavour. The chicken sliders, buffalo cauliflower and beetroot salad were the best way to start the evening.
In the mains, I managed to taste a friend’s salmon risotto - which was perfectly made. It was cooked to perfection with flavours that leave you wanting more. We also had a vegetarian version of the same which was also a delight.
The current special was gnocchi tikka masala and I have to say the way Jai has managed to fuse the flavours here was something I’ve never experienced before - despite living in London. It was wow! I hope it and the salmon risotto get a permanent place on the menu!
If you are looking for somewhere to go for a special occasion or just to treat yourself to some amazing food and service check out Jai’s.
It’s a contemporary place so don’t go in expecting traditional or authentic Indian food, but what you get is an experience you won’t forget.
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeannie G
New York City18 contributions
Jul 2022 • none
We recently visited Jai's place for dinner with our family. The food was delicious and the service from our server, Victoria, was pleasant. We were offered a sample of their mango lassi as some of us never had any before and didn't know if we would like it. We each got a small sample in a glass to taste and we ended up ordering 2.
When we got our bill, we noticed that we were charged for 3 lassis. We brought this to the attention of our server. She told us that the samples added up to serving of lassi, hence the additional charge.
I am not one to make a big deal of things but, where I come from when you are OFFERED a sample, you should not charge for it. We didn't ask for a sample, it was offered. Very disappointing, especially since we paid over $250 for our dinner.
We will not be returning.
Written July 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jai's Contemporary Fusion Cuisine
Hi Jeannie,
I do apologize for the misunderstanding. I was not aware that she had offered a sample of the mango lassi. You are completely right and should not have been charged for it.
I would like to offer a full reimbursement for the additional mango lassi. I understand you said you will never return, but I would also like to extend a $50 gift voucher to Jai's for the inconvenience and to give us another try.
Please send an email to info@jaissxmresto.com to follow up. We hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerest apologies,
Jai
Written July 31, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
brakow
19 contributions
Nov 2021 • family
My family and I had an amazing dinner experience at Jai's in Simpson Bay last night. While I have some but limited experience with Indian food, my wife and children do not. Jai and his staff were so accommodating and helpful with our selections, and by the end of the evening everyone loved all of the food.
The indoor atmosphere is second to none in Sint Maarten. Everything in the place is so week done, from the chairs to the glass wear. The place is so elegant, yet still so comfortable. Amazing whiskey selection, and liquor selection for that matter. Prices were all very reasonable for some amazing contemporary Indian cuisine. It was fun to sit and watch the open air kitchen and chat with the very friendly and accommodating staff.
If you are looking for something fresh, unique and an overall great experience, do yourself a favor and visit Jai's in Simpson Bay.
Written November 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christian H
St Martin / St Maarten17 contributions
Sep 2021 • couples
Amazing experience. Food was simply exceptional. I had the pan seared duck breast and it was a top 5 meal out of anywhere I have eaten. Personal and attentive service, focused care on each dish (tandoori chicken sliders are a must), and a wonderful, intimate setting make Jai’s a must stop on the island. Can’t wait to go back!
Written September 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Devin M
Palm Beach Gardens3 contributions
Nov 2021 • none
Wonderful food and service. My husband and I went after a long day of activities. The food had wonderful portions and the waitress was knowledgeable when explaining certain ingredients on the menu. We had to "special prep" some things and the kitchen staff made our food wonderfully regardless of the restrictions. We met Jai the owner and he's just wonderful and has a passion for cooking. Highly recommend if you're in for an Indian treat. Also, the price was magnificent for the quantity!
Written January 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PALoving
Washington DC9 contributions
Dec 2022 • friends
A delightful find based on a recommendation from another sayfied customer. The food was exceptionally flavorful and beautifully presented. We had the duck breast and couldn't stop dipping each bite in the sauce. Yhe black lentil dal was so good we had legtover duck because we ate too much dal amd rice. The St Louis ribs marnated in soy & lemongrass weren't fatty and just fell off the bones it was so tender and well braised. The cocktails we tried were well made, and each had a liitle flavor twist taking them out of the ordinary. The sorbet portions were unusually large and well priced. Strawberry was refreshing and tasted like sun ripened berries. The mango tasted like perfectly ripe ftozen fruit eas pureed for our pleasure. We will be back when ahain in Sint Maarten.
Written December 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maddie
Chattanooga3 contributions
Oct 2021 • couples
My husband and I were referred to Jai’s from a liquor store owner in Philipsburg. He said it was the best restaurant and that we had to go. My husband LOVES Indian food so we decided to try it out. We are creatures of habit so we tend to stick to what we know and this we did not know. However, the second we walked in I knew we made the right choice. When I tell you this was the BEST food I have had on our trip so far- I am not kidding. We had the Buffalo cauliflower, duck, lamb chops, naan, and baklava. No joke we will be back before we leave the island. This food is insanely good, the service was amazing and welcoming and you will leave with the fullest heart and happiest belly! It was a bonus that the owners family was in the restaurant for an anniversary dinner, so we got the entire package while dining. We love this place and will recommend it over and over again!
Written October 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sharon S
Boston28 contributions
Feb 2023 • friends
So the 3 of us had lamb chops after reaching out to the owner. Normally lamb chops are a special but he agreed to have them for us at lunch. They were delicious and perfectly cooked. We also had beet salad, naan appetizer and chocolate cbd brownie. Thank you Jai and Rhea for a wonderful lunch!!
Written February 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susas S
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • couples
The food is pleasant but not copious. For chicken tika marsala, the sides, and essentially the rice, are not included in the price. We would have expected better value for money and were told we had to sit outside, on plastic chairs with traffic passing by, and did not experience the comfort and atmosphere of the interior, even though there was enough space. It's a pity that the fusion between Indian and Caribbean food was not recognisable.
Written March 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike_and_Pina
Montreal111 contributions
Jan 2023 • none
We reserved for my beautiful partner's birthday celebration. We chose Jai's given we enjoy new experiences in the culinary realm & were not disappointed.
Having full access views to the activities in the kitchen witnessing the choreography between chef & team was a highlight. This restaurant is thoughtfully decorated exuding a contemporary vibe.
We enjoyed 3 appetizers as to enjoy the very most of the flavour blends being expertly constructed by the chef.
Our mains were perfectly presented & the explosion of flavours on all regions of the palate were truly exquisite. It was not a sensation previously experienced elsewhere on our travels.
Service is of high quality, food suggestions were spot on & were appreciated.
Given it was my partner's birthday & the reservation did request if there was a special occasion being celebrated, I was a little disappointed that a small token of the event was not offered to her. An offer of a nice cappuccino would have been perfect. More puzzling was that one of the staff members provided best wishes for her birthday at the table during the meal.
Notwithstanding, a great restaurant to experience something different from the ordinary. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy.
Written February 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
arimur1
1 contribution
Dec 2022 • family
It was our first time at Jai’s and we will definitely be back! Everything (nems, octopus, chicken tikka masala— to name a few) was delicious. I’ve been coming to St. Maarten for over 20 years and recently developed a gluten intolerance, changing my entire dining experience on the island. I can confidently say there were plenty of options that could be made gluten free. The chef and waitstaff were very knowledgeable of what I could and could not have, making me at ease.
Written December 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janzmail
Allen111 contributions
Nov 2022 • couples
What an amazing evening. We started off with drinks. The wine and Tamarin Margarita were amazing. They even made the margarita without the alcohol. It was delicious. For appetizers we had the Tandoori sliders and lamb samosas! Both were exception. The flavors were so perfect. Our mains were short ribs that I could have eaten with a spoon, they were so tender and tikka masala for my husband. Again, the flavors were so delicious. The servers and bar tender were friendly and helpful. You can tell they take pride in their jobs and are proud of the food they are serving. Unfortunately we are only here for one more day, or we would be back for another incredible food experience. The view of the kitchen also gives you confidence. It is organized and tidy with great attention to detail. When we visit the island again this will be on our list to visit again!!!
Written November 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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