Wednesday, June, 03,2026

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Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 celebrates ‘Redefining Excellence’ across Food & Lifestyle

Mumbai (Maharashtra): The fourth edition of the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 concluded on a spectacular note, bringing together some of the country’s most influential voices from the food and lifestyle ecosystem. Held at Taj Santacruz, Mumbai, the evening celebrated innovation, creativity and excellence across a range of dynamic categories, further reinforcing the platform’s position as one of India’s most credible industry recognitions.

Centred around this year’s theme, ‘Redefining Excellence,’ the awards recognised avant-garde restaurants, bars, cafés, spirit brands, hospitality concepts, experiential dining formats and content creators who are redefining the contours of India’s cultural and culinary landscape.

The evening witnessed a distinguished gathering of industry stalwarts, creative leaders and cultural icons. Leading names from the entertainment world, Shalini Pandey, Madhurima Tuli, Karan Tacker, Avneet Kaur, Harleen Sethi and Armaan Jain graced the red carpet, adding glamour and excitement to the celebrations. The ceremony also honoured the finest talents from the culinary world, presenting awards across categories and applauding winners for their craft, consistency, and spirit of innovation.

The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 drew strength from an exceptional jury, a powerhouse lineup featuring veteran food critic Rashmi Uday Singh, restaurateur AD Singh, chefs Doma Wang, Rahul Akerkar, Ajay Chopra, and Karishma Sakhrani, food historian Sadaf Hussain, food writers Priya Ganapathy and Rukshana Kapadia, and mixologist Nitin Tewari, among others. With their diverse expertise and uncompromising standards, the panel ensured each winner was chosen with a thoughtful balance of quality, originality, and cultural context.

Talking about the event, Kartik Mahadev, Chief Marketing Officer – ZEEL & Zee5, said, “At ZEE, we believe excellence deserves a platform as expansive as its impact. With Zee Zest Unlimit Awards – Redefining Excellence, we are leveraging our omni-channel network across TV, OTT, web & social to spotlight culinary trailblazers and honour these visionaries whose passion, innovation and dedication are evolving the gastronomic culture of India.”

Alenkar Pathare – Business Head, Zee Zest & Youth, said, “India’s food and lifestyle landscape is experiencing a dynamic shift, led by a new wave of entrepreneurs, creators and hospitality leaders who are redefining the contours of consumer experience. The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards celebrates this spirit of innovation and enterprise, recognising individuals and brands that are shaping fresh narratives and encouraging the industry to push the boundaries of creativity and possibility.”

A standout highlight of the evening was a high-energy performance by the celebrated Indian rock band Agnee, which infused the celebration with vibrant energy and had the audience on their feet. This was complimented by a relentless laughter riot presented by popular standup comedian Prashasti Singh.  

Building on the momentum of its previous editions, the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 once again reaffirmed Zee Zest’s commitment to spotlighting excellence and innovation that continue to shape India’s evolving food, travel and lifestyle narrative.

Co presented by L'Oréal Paris, co powered by SR Queens, with special partner Rajesh Masala, fragrance partner Wild Stone, energy drink partner Hell Energy Drink and associate sponsor Dhananjay Foods, the evening stood as a vibrant celebration of creativity, enterprise and cultural influence.

Tune in to catch the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 telecast on 29 March on Zee Zest SD and HD, and streaming on Zee5.

The distinguished winners of the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026 are:

Sr. No.

Category

Winner

Cuisine

1

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Naru Noodle Bar, Bengaluru

2

BEST LUXURY DINING RESTAURANT

The Table, Mumbai

3

BEST REGIONAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

Amar Khamar, Kolkata

4

BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Avatara, Mumbai

5

BEST CAFÉ

Cafe Lento, Goa

6

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

SoBo 20, Mumbai

7

BEST EUROPEAN RESTAURANT

La Panthera, Mumbai

8

BEST IN DESSERT

Lick, Bengaluru

9

BEST SOUTH INDIAN RESTAURANT

Dakshin at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai

10

BEST DESIGNED RESTAURANT

The Sarvato, Jaipur

11

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

Wabi Sabi at The Oberoi, Bengaluru

12

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

Khao Man Gai by Seefah, Mumbai

Beverages

13

BEST COCKTAIL BAR

Bar Spirit Forward, Bengaluru

14

BEST INDIAN WHISKY

Amrut Expedition

15

BEST INDIAN CRAFT GIN

Cherrapunji

16

BEST DESIGNED COCKTAIL BAR

Boilermaker, Goa

17

BEST INDIGENOUS SPIRIT

Six Brothers Mahura

18

BEST INDIAN RUM 

Pipa Rum

Individuals

19

CHEF OF THE YEAR (Male)

Gresham Fernandes, Bandra Born, Mumbai

20

CHEF OF THE YEAR (Female)

Koyel Roy Nandy - Rannaghor by Sienna Calcutta

21

PASTRY CHEF OF THE YEAR

Vinesh Johny - Lavonne, India

22

RISING CHEF OF THE YEAR

Juhi Punwani - Amar Khamar, Kolkata

23

RESTAURATEUR OF THE YEAR

Gauri Devidayal

24

MIXOLOGIST OF THE YEAR

Jeet Rana – Barbet & Pals, New Delhi

25

UNLIMIT ICON

Chef Manish Mehrotra

26

UNLIMIT ICONIC MUSIC BAND AWARD

AGNEE

27

BEST CLOUD KITCHEN

The Junglee Kitchen by Armaan Jain

28

ICONIC RESTAURANT

Crystal Restaurant, Mumbai

29

BEST NEW AGE BEVERAGE BRAND

HELL ENERGY DRINK

30

UNLIMIT OTT BREAKTHROUGH STAR AWARD

Harleen Sethi

31

UNLIMIT DYNAMIC PERFORMER AWARD

Madhurima Tuli

32

BEST FIRE-LED CULINARY CONCEPT

HOM, Mumbai

33

UNLIMIT IMPACTFUL SCREEN PRESENCE AWARD

Karan Tacker

34

UNLIMIT PROMISING ACTRESS OF THE YEAR

Avneet Kaur

35

UNLIMIT EMERGING TALENT AWARD

Shalini Pandey

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Daily Astro

03-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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03-06-2026