About us

At the heart of Zayna is Riz Dar, a visionary whose rich history and culinary experiences have shaped a unique dining destination in central London, celebrating the vibrant flavors of Pakistani and North Indian cuisine.

Hailing from Punjab, Riz was raised in a family deeply passionate about food, immersed in the aromatic world of Indian spices and culinary traditions. His father's restaurant ignited his love for the rich tapestry of Pakistani and North Indian dishes, inspiring him to create authentic culinary experiences.

After honing his skills in high-end restaurants across California, Riz relocated to the UK. In 2008, he opened Zayna, a testament to his lifelong passion for food and his dedication to the restaurant industry. At Zayna, you'll discover the subtle nuances of Pakistani and North Indian cuisine that elevate each dish, inviting you to savor the flavors of his childhood.

Riz’s mission is clear: to share the beloved dishes that shaped his upbringing, offering guests a true taste of his heritage. Join us at Zayna and experience the exquisite blend of spices and traditions that define our menu.

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About Us

Hailing from Punjab, Riz was raised in a family deeply passionate about food, immersed in the aromatic world of Indian spices and culinary traditions. His father's restaurant ignited his love for the rich tapestry of North Indian dishes, inspiring him to create authentic culinary experiences.

Testimonials

"Zayna was highly recommended so I had to visit on my trip to London. It met all expectations. Excellent food and service’’. - The late Paul Allen – Co-Founder of Microsoft

‘’There is only one place I go when I am missing traditional Pakistani food in London. Thank you to Riz and all his staff for always taking care of us.’’ Shahid Khan – Owner of Jacksonville Jaguars and Fulham FC

‘’Zayna Restaurant is my favourite Pakistani and North Indian food on earth. Go immediately!’’

Jameela Jamil - Actress

When a Restaurant is named after the owner’s daughter you know there’s going to be a lot of love around. Zayna reflects the personality of Riz Dar who spent his formative years around Kashmir and Punjab and whose first job was in his father’s restaurant in Pakistan. It’s no surprise then to find a menu of North Indian and Pakistani delicacies. It comes divided according to cooking method, from the pan, grill, tawa or oven; but look out for the refined streed food using offal. He is passionate about produce: spices are roasted and ground in house and only halal meat and free-range chicken are used. Dishes come packed with flavour [...].”— The Michelin Guide

A complete makeover of the interior has rendered Riz Dar’s Pakistani and Punjabi restaurant a seductive haven in this little West End street pleasingly filled with singular shops. Low-slung sofas and intricate woodcarvings distinguish the décor. Free-range meat and traditional recipes such as gurda qeema, where spiced minced lamb is mixed with finely chopped kidneys, make the menu unusually inviting.— Fay Maschler, Food Critic for thisislondon.co.uk

There is no other restaurant in the world that I have visited as many times as Zayna.— David Hasselhoff, Actor