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There are places you walk into once, and then they stay with you. Maybe a restaurant where the first bite makes you pause. A lush dining room where the warmth of hospitality lingers long after the meal is over. These spaces quietly earn admiration, turning first-time guests into lifelong patrons. Because when food is crafted with care and hospitality feels instinctive, it is more than just an outing; it turns into a moment that feeds your soul. Through flavours that tell stories, service that feels personal, and experiences that keep calling you back, again and again; that’s how favourites are born.
We’re sure you have experienced this, and the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 is your chance to express gratitude. For the uninitiated, The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards is back with this year’s edition, where we celebrate excellence and innovation across India’s food, travel, and lifestyle landscape. Honouring individuals, brands, and creators who embody the ‘Unlimit’ mindset, the awards are a great way to recognise institutions redefining boundaries through creativity, community impact, and stories that inspire.
Voting lines for the Zee Zest Unlimited Awards are officially open, giving you a chance to support your favourites. From standout Japanese kitchens across the country to exceptional regional gems that have had us swooning, the nominees span the best of India’s ever-evolving foodscape. If any of our nominees has moved you, surprised you, or become your go-to recommendation, this is your moment to make it count. Cast your vote now!
Different categories at Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026
Cuisine-based contenders
Start with the best Japanese restaurants. From subtle umami to artful presentation, this category celebrates spots where simplicity and precision come together for an exceptional meal. Nominees include Naru Noodle Bar and Wabi Sabi, Oberoi in Bengaluru, Mizu Izakaya and JSan in Goa, and Gaijin in Mumbai. The next category spotlights places that champion India’s rich local flavours, putting lesser-known culinary traditions at the heart of unforgettable meals. For the best regional Indian restaurants, the nominees include Tresind in Mumbai, Amar Khamar and Rannaghar by Sienna in Kolkata, Rynsan in Shillong, Ikk Punjab in Chandigarh, and OOTA in Bengaluru.
Then move on to the category that honours the spots that whisk you across Asia with bold flavours, vibrant spices, and ever-evolving menus. Best Asian restaurant is a tough spot to win, but there are big names like Yazu Pan Asian Supper Club and Oryn, Fairmont in Mumbai, Tsuki in Pune, Wabi Sabi, Oberoi in Bengaluru, and The Spice Route at The Imperial in Delhi competing for the top spot. Exciting! For plant-forward pioneers who prove meatless doesn’t mean flavourless, the next category is the one to watch. Nominees include Street Storyss and Kalpaney in Bengaluru, Tsas by Dolkhar in Ladakh, Soam and Avatara in Mumbai, and Agashiye The House of MG in Ahmedabad.
With bold spice, sweet heat, and soul in every bite, Thai food is loved well across the country. Our next category honours the places that transport you to the vibrant markets and serene kitchens of Thailand, one serving at a time. Khao Man Gai by Seefah, Toa 66, Banng in Mumbai, Baan Phad Thai and Rim Naam at Oberoi in Bengaluru, and Benjarong in Chennai compete for the best Thai restaurant this year.
Then come eateries that serve up Europe’s rich culinary legacy, from rustic Mediterranean to refined Parisian plates. Crowd favourites like La Panthera, The Table, Mezzo Mezzo at JW, Olive Bar & Kitchen in Mumbai, The Second House in Goa, and Le Cirque at The Leela Palace in Delhi are the nominees for the category of best European restaurant. The vibrant diversity of South Indian cuisine is still heavily underrated but this next set of places is changing that, and how! With deep heritage, rich spices, and soulful dishes, the next category you should look at is the best South Indian restaurant. Nominees include Dakshin at ITC, The Konkan Cafe, Benne in Mumbai, OOTA and Restaurant chef Pillai in Bengaluru, and Carnatic Cafe in Gurugram.
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