Located in the scenic surroundings of Nairobi’s Spring Valley, Zen Gardens is one of the most sought-after high-end restaurants in Nairobi.
The Asia–themed establishment is the brainchild of Shivani Radia Patel, who started it in 2008 at the age of 25.
Since its inception, Zen Gardens has grown from more than just a luxurious eatery to a prime conferencing and dining destination for global brands and high-flying personalities.
In this article, WoK looks at Zen Garden’s journey and the secrets behind its success.
Passion for food
Shivani’s vision to start the restaurant began when she was working as a lawyer in the UK.
She had often thought of starting her own business, but it was her parents who encouraged her entrepreneurial aspirations. Since she was passionate about food, she decided to quit her law job and venture into the hospitality sector.
She was experienced in management, HR, and marketing, and she teamed up with her mother and sisters, who were experienced in garden, landscape, and interior design. This blend of skills was the foundation upon which Zen Gardens was built.
Shivani says starting the restaurant was a huge risk, as it demanded a considerable investment of time and money. However, within two years, Zen Gardens was up and running and was projected to return the investment money within three to five years.
Today, the establishment stands on a 2-and-a-half-acre piece of land in Spring Valley. It hosts two restaurants: the Bamboo Oriental Restaurant and the Jade Coffee and Tree House.
With over 60 dedicated employees, Zen Gardens caters to a diverse clientele that includes tourists, corporate guests, and the discerning high-end market.
Influential Personalities
Over the years, Zen Gardens has played host to an array of influential personalities and esteemed global brands.
The Asia-themed establishment has been the chosen venue for corporate events of prestigious names like UN agencies, Coca-Cola, Mercedes, Safaricom, Heineken, and Kenol Kobil, to name just a few.
NGOs, banks, international schools, and businesses launching new products have all found solace in the exquisite ambiance of Zen Gardens.
The list of notable guests who have graced the gardens reads like a who’s who, featuring luminaries such as former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, and former UK First Lady Cherie Blair.
Unsurprisingly, the establishment has received several awards, such as the best Pan-Asian restaurant in Kenya by Taste Awards in 2019. The same year, it was ranked by the London Stock Exchange as one of the top companies inspiring Africa.
Only One Zen
Currently, Shivani and her sister Payal are the executive directors of Zen Gardens. Speaking to Business Daily, they revealed that they were considering partnerships to open branches in other countries in the region.
However, they made it clear that another Zen in Kenya is not on the horizon. “We don’t intend to open branches in Kenya since Zen is exclusive; there can only be one in Kenya, and people come from all corners of the country to this place. So, it’s only logical to expand outside the country,” said Payal.
According to Shivani, their greatest challenge has been maintaining high service standards, which she says are no joke. She adds that as an owner, she has learnt to be an all-rounder, involved in all aspects of the business.
“I am involved in all the departments, from marketing, procurement, human resources, accounts, as well as front of house duties. Power disruptions, water shortages and droughts are some of the other challenges that affect operations and lead to extra expenses,” she says.
The two sisters credit their open mindedness for their success. “When we travel abroad, we bring back new ideas on world trends that we incorporate into the businesses,” said Shivani, who is credited for launching the first ever restaurant cookbook in Kenya – The Zen Garden Cookbook, Bamboo edition.
