Zaiqah

Zaiqah brings the vibrant, aromatic world of Pakistani cuisine to the heart of Dickson, Canberra. At 21 Challis Street, this restaurant is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and hospitality, where every dish is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage passed down through generations. The name itself evokes a sense of taste and delight, a promise that the kitchen eagerly fulfills with every plate. Whether you are a long-time lover of South Asian food or a curious newcomer, Zaiqah offers an immersive experience grounded in authentic spices, time-honored recipes, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The foundation of Zaiqah’s menu lies in the bold use of premium spices sourced directly from Pakistan. Diners can expect the complex layering of flavors for which Pakistani cooking is celebrated—a balance of heat, fragrance, and depth that transforms simple ingredients into memorable meals. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of sizzling kebabs and slow-cooked curries sets the stage for what is to come. The restaurant is designed for sharing, with portions ideal for groups, making it a perfect destination for family dinners, friendly gatherings, and special occasions.

Menu Highlights at Zaiqah

The menu at Zaiqah is a curated journey through Pakistan’s most cherished flavors. Signature dishes include the Chicken Reshmi Handi, a creamy and delicately spiced chicken preparation, and the sizzling Chicken Tawa, cooked on a traditional flat griddle. Kebabs are a standout, with the Chicken Seekh Kebab and Lamb Chops frequently mentioned by guests. While some have found certain grilled items to be on the drier side, the majority of the menu is celebrated for its home-style quality and lack of excess oil.

Specialties Worth Trying

• Chicken Reshmi Handi: A rich, creamy curry with a subtle spice profile.
• Chicken Tawa: A sizzling, street-style dish bursting with flavor.
• Chicken Seekh Kebab: Minced chicken skewers, a popular appetizer.
• Lamb Chops: Grilled to order, best enjoyed fresh.
• Goat Karahi: A traditional wok-cooked curry, praised in reviews.

Naan and BBQ

No Pakistani meal is complete without bread, and Zaiqah’s naan is a frequent point of praise in customer feedback. The BBQ section of the menu, while ambitious, offers a range of grilled meats that pair perfectly with the restaurant’s signature chutneys and raita. The kitchen’s commitment to traditional recipes ensures that even familiar dishes carry a distinct, homemade character.

The Dining Experience at Zaiqah

Dining at Zaiqah is a comfortable and pleasant affair. The restaurant has been described by Google Maps reviewers as “very clean” with a “pleasant ambiance,” making it suitable for both casual meals and more formal celebrations. The seating is designed to accommodate groups, and the menu is built for sharing, encouraging a communal style of eating that is central to South Asian dining culture.

Service Options

• Dine-In: Enjoy the full experience in a clean, welcoming setting.
• Takeaway: Order and pick up your favorites to enjoy at home.
• Delivery: Zaiqah offers delivery services, with online ordering available.

Reservations and Online Ordering

To ensure a seamless experience, Zaiqah provides a dedicated online ordering platform and accepts table reservations. This is especially recommended on weekends or when planning to visit during peak dinner hours, as the restaurant has garnered a strong local following.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Zaiqah holds a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps based on 247 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality and popularity in the Canberra dining scene. Feedback from diners paints a picture of a restaurant that excels in delivering authentic, flavorful food with commendable service.

What Diners Are Saying

• Outstanding Flavors: A reviewer called Zaiqah a “FAV!! In CBR” and highlighted the Chicken Reshmi Handi and Chicken Tawa with high praise.
• Homemade Quality: One diner noted, “Really excellent food. Top-notch quality. Tastes like homemade. No excess oil,” underscoring the kitchen’s approach to balanced cooking.
• Great for Sharing: Another reviewer mentioned, “The portions are ideal for sharing with multiple people,” reinforcing the restaurant’s communal dining concept.
• Bold Spices: A reviewer noted that diners should be prepared for “some unusual and heavily spiced dishes,” indicating an authentic, unapologetic flavor profile that adventurous eaters will appreciate.

While some reviews point out that a few grilled items can be dry, the overwhelming consensus is that Zaiqah offers a top-tier Pakistani dining experience in Canberra.

Zaiqah in Dickson, Canberra

Zaiqah is located at G04/21 Challis Street, Dickson ACT 2602, in the bustling suburb of Dickson. This area is well-known for its diverse food scene, and Zaiqah adds a distinguished Pakistani option to the mix. The restaurant is a convenient drive or public transport ride from Canberra’s city center, making it accessible for both local residents and visitors.

Accessibility and Parking

While specific parking details are best confirmed with the restaurant directly, Dickson’s commercial area typically offers a mix of street parking and nearby lots. Guests with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to call ahead for the most current information.

Hours, Contact, and Catering

Zaiqah opens at 5:00 PM, focusing on dinner service, and maintains a price point that guests have reported as $20–$40 per person. The restaurant is also a notable venue for private events, offering catering and banquet services.

Catering Services

Zaiqah extends its hospitality beyond the dining room with dedicated event services. The restaurant’s banquet hall is available for a variety of occasions:

• Birthday Parties: Celebrate in a refined setting with a curated menu.
• Business Meetings: A professional venue with top-tier amenities for corporate gatherings.
• Wedding Celebrations: An elegant space to host memorable wedding events.

Contact Details

• Phone: +61 2 6112 8118
• Email: info@zaiqah.com.au
• Website: zaiqah.com.au

Common Questions

What type of cuisine does Zaiqah serve?

Zaiqah specializes in authentic Pakistani cuisine, featuring traditional curries, biryanis, kebabs, and BBQ items.

Does Zaiqah offer delivery?

Yes, Zaiqah offers delivery services. You can also order online through their website for takeaway.

What are the opening hours?

Zaiqah is currently listed as opening at 5:00 PM. For up-to-date hours, it is best to check their Google Maps listing or contact the restaurant directly.

Can I book a table?

Yes, reservations are available. You can book through the restaurant’s website to secure your table.

Is the food very spicy?

Pakistani cuisine is known for its bold, aromatic spices. Some dishes are heavily spiced in the traditional style, but the kitchen balances complex flavors. If you have specific spice-level preferences, it's advisable to mention them when ordering.

Does Zaiqah cater for events?

Absolutely. Zaiqah has a banquet hall and provides catering services for birthdays, weddings, and business meetings.