In a grand celebration marked by elegance, flavor, and cultural finesse, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights proudly unveiled its latest offering Zaiqa, a premier Indian fine-dining restaurant dedicated to capturing the soul of India’s vast and vibrant culinary heritage. The inauguration, held on April 7, 2025, was graced by the presence of acclaimed Bollywood actress and cultural icon Ms. Manisha Koirala, who served as the Chief Guest for the event.
Zaiqa, which means “flavor” or “taste” in Urdu, truly lives up to its name. The restaurant aims to be much more than a place to dine; it offers a rich cultural experience for locals, tourists, and Indian food lovers. Located on the 10th floor of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights, Zaiqa not only delivers on flavors but also presents breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu’s skyline, creating a tranquil yet grand atmosphere for every guest.
A Celebration of Culinary Excellence
Behind Zaiqa’s success is the powerful collaboration between Executive Chef Mukesh Singh and Sous Chef Mohammad Ahmad, both of whom bring decades of culinary expertise to the table. Their vision is simple but ambitious to celebrate the timeless flavors of Indian cuisine while presenting them in a modern and elegant setting.
“Zaiqa is more than just a restaurant it is a gateway to India’s culinary heritage, reimagined in an elegant and contemporary setting,” said Vijay Nanmaran S., General Manager of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights. “We are thrilled to introduce this exceptional dining experience to Kathmandu and offer Indian travelers a taste of India while exploring Nepal’s vibrant culinary capital.”
From the moment guests step into Zaiqa, they are transported into a world where culinary art meets warm hospitality. The interiors are a seamless blend of traditional Indian motifs and modern design aesthetics, featuring luxurious seating, ambient lighting, and tastefully curated décor. The restaurant also includes private dining rooms, interactive chef’s tables, and dedicated private butler service, making it an ideal venue for intimate gatherings and special occasions.
A Menu That Tells a Story
Zaiqa’s menu is a carefully curated journey through India’s culinary diversity. From the aromatic kitchens of North India to the coastal flavors of the South, every dish at Zaiqa is crafted to reflect authenticity while embracing innovation.
Signature offerings such as Murgh Shahjhani (a royal Mughlai chicken dish), Nalli Nihari (slow-cooked lamb shanks in rich spices), and Kasundi Jhinga (mustard-marinated prawns) showcase the chefs’ dedication to traditional cooking techniques and bold spices. Each dish is thoughtfully presented, with attention to detail in both taste and presentation.
Vegetarian guests will also find a wide selection of dishes inspired by regional Indian recipes, made using locally sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and sustainability.
Enhancing Nepal’s Culinary Landscape
The opening of Zaiqa marks a significant step in enhancing Kathmandu’s fine dining landscape, especially in the realm of Indian cuisine. As a city that draws a large number of international visitors and Indian travelers, Kathmandu now has a culinary destination that offers an authentic yet contemporary Indian dining experience.
“Zaiqa aims to be a landmark in Kathmandu’s dynamic food culture. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a lover of Indian cuisine, or someone simply seeking an immersive and elegant dining experience, Zaiqa is your new go-to destination,” added General Manager Vijay Nanmaran.
The restaurant’s location at Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights gives it an added advantage. Part of the global Mercure Hotels brand under the Accor Group, the hotel is known for offering experiences that blend local authenticity with international standards. Zaiqa is a direct reflection of that philosophy.
About Mercure: Hospitality with a Local Soul
Mercure Hotels is inspired by Mercury, the Roman god of travelers, and stays true to its namesake by offering more than just accommodation. Every Mercure hotel is a gateway to local culture, encouraging guests to “Feel Local Everywhere” through the brand’s “Discover Local” program. This approach is vividly present in Zaiqa, where Indian culinary roots are brought to life in Kathmandu’s cultural backdrop.
Founded in 1973, the Mercure brand has expanded globally with more than 1,000 hotels in over 60 countries, all committed to quality, culture, and comfort. Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights stands as a testament to the brand’s promise to bring meaningful, localized, and high-quality experiences to travelers from around the world.
Mercure is part of Accor, one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, which operates more than 5,700 properties in over 110 countries. It is also a participating brand in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) lifestyle loyalty program, offering members access to exclusive rewards, services, and experiences.
Final Thoughts
With the grand opening of Zaiqa, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights reaffirms its dedication to redefining hospitality in Nepal one exquisite flavor at a time. Blending culinary tradition, scenic ambiance, and luxury service, Zaiqa is set to become a culinary landmark not only in Kathmandu but in the broader South Asian fine-dining scene.
Whether you’re indulging in a rich Indian feast or enjoying the serene skyline views with a spiced chai, Zaiqa promises an experience that lingers far beyond the final bite.
