At Royal Zayka Indian Cuisine, the vibrant flavours of India are served with a royal touch, offering a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Owner Jaspal Singh Rana brings a rich selection of Indian culinary traditions to the qathet region, a passion which began with a deep-rooted family heritage in cooking.
The inspiration behind Royal Zayka stemmed from a desire to introduce traditional Indian cuisine—dishes that graced the royal palaces and bustling streets of India—to the local community.
“Our goal was to bring a slice of India's rich culinary diversity, from the royal kitchens to the street vendors, to everyone who walks through our doors,” explains Jaspal.
Authenticity is paramount at Royal Zayka. Every dish is meticulously prepared from scratch, from roasting and grinding spices to crafting base sauces and chutneys.
“We strive to cover the extensive regions of the Indian subcontinent, from Kashmir to Kanya Kumari and Assam to Gujarat,” says Jaspal. “This not only showcases the culinary variety but also the cultural expanse of our roots.”
The menu features many dishes catering to diverse palates, including vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian and meat-based options. Some of the most beloved dishes include Tandoori specials, Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani, which reflect the authentic flavours and cooking techniques from various regions of India.
Jaspal’s journey in the culinary world began at a young age, inspired by his father, who cooked for India’s elite. With more than 23 years of experience, including stints at prestigious hotels in India and various establishments in Canada, Jaspal took over Royal Zayka in 2020.
The skilled team of chefs, including Dhanveer Singh, Shakti Prasad and Sandeep Rawat, bring their own regional expertise and innovation to the table, constantly evolving the menu to introduce both traditional and novel dishes. Staff members also include Tamara McIntee, Gurpreet Sudhu, Shaylene Terri Hogan and Jaspreet Kaur. Jaspal’s wife Chanda, daughters Kirti and Rakhi, and son Kartik help out as well.
Royal Zayka isn't just about serving food; it's about creating a memorable dining experience. “Atithi Devo Bhava,” meaning "Guest is God," is more than just a philosophy; it’s the guiding principle in addressing every guest's needs and feedback.
The restaurant is also a staple in community events, participating in fundraisers and local initiatives, which Jaspal deems crucial for giving back to the community that has embraced them so warmly.
While currently not planning further expansions, Royal Zayka aims to continue enhancing the dining experience at the existing locations, including the newly acquired Little Hut Curry in Westview. Jaspal’s vision for the future revolves around maintaining high standards and continuing to serve the community with dedication.
“To our customers, I say this: we are here to stay, to serve and to be a part of this community that has become home for us,” he adds.
Royal Zayka Indian Cuisine is located at 6275 Marine Avenue in Townsite. For more information or to make a reservation, call 604.414.0143 or email [email protected].
