LAHORE MIRROR – Kicking off his international venture, Arshad Khan, Pakistan’s renowned Chaiwala-turned-global sensation, is set to open his much-awaited café in London.
According to the reports, at East London’s bustling 229 Ilford Lane, Café Chaiwala, Khan’s celebrated brand, has officially welcomed customers. Located in a vibrant neighborhood brimming with Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi communities, the café has already become a hotspot for tea enthusiasts, thanks to its eye-catching billboard that beckons passersby.
This London endeavor is made possible by three enterprising investor brothers, Bahadar, Nadir, and Akbar Durrani, who aim to establish multiple “Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan” franchises across the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
But who exactly is Arshad Khan? For those with fleeting memories, seven years ago, Khan was a destitute teenager selling Chai at a roadside stall (Dhabba) in Islamabad. With no access to proper education, Khan, at the tender age of 12, began working to support his family of 17.
It was in October 2016, when Pakistani photographer Javeria Ali captured his mesmerizing features and piercing blue eyes, that Khan skyrocketed to fame overnight. Unaware of his newfound stardom due to a lack of a phone, Khan discovered his celebrity status when throngs of people flocked to his humble Dhabba, eager to take pictures with him.
In an interview, Akbar Durrani revealed plans to establish 50 franchises in the United Kingdom alone. He expressed, “Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan has gone international, and London, being the capital of the world, marks just the beginning. We meticulously researched the market and meticulously planned our business strategy before opening our flagship outlet in London.”
Combining traditional Pakistani elements with cultural flair, Café Chaiwala exudes nostalgia. From truck art and hand-decorated Vespas to desi paintings adorning the walls, the interior strikes a harmonious balance between modern aesthetics and the rustic charm of a Dhabba.
Arshad Khan himself intends to visit London soon to meet his adoring fans. He eagerly expressed, “My visit is currently being arranged, and I would be delighted to brew tea for my beloved fans. I have received countless requests for a London visit. Our first international Chai shop is already open on Ilford Lane, and the response has been overwhelming. Alongside the Durrani brothers, we chose to start here due to the substantial Pakistani and Indian population in the area who share a love for Chai. I will personally be in London soon.”
While Akbar focuses on international endeavors, Nadir Durrani efficiently manages the Ilford Lane Chaiwala. Speaking proudly, he stated, “We have made it evident that this is the only authentic Chaiwala in Britain. Numerous people have been coming in and inquiring about Chaiwala Arshad Khan, curious if he is the same person who gained fame while pouring Chai in an Islamabad market.”
He added, “We are offering everything that the Chaiwalas in Pakistan serve, from traditional desi street food to various types of Pakistani teas such as Karak Chai, Gurr Chai, Honey Malai Chai, Badami Chai, Kashmiri Chai, and Doodh Patti. Our menu also includes freshly prepared Chicken Tikka Paratha, Malai Boti Paratha, Afghani Paratha, a special breakfast menu featuring Lahori Channay Paratha and Desi Omelette, as well as delectable treats like Sujji Halwa, Papri Chaat, Samosa Chaat, Beef Paratha Roll, and Malai Boti.”
Akbar further revealed that the contract for international rights with Arshad Khan Chaiwala was finalized in 2021, but the search for the perfect location that aligns with the brand’s image and potential caused a slight delay. Asserting their expertise in the food business spanning over two decades, he stated, “We know how to scope out a business and find the ideal location. Ilford Lane, being at the heart of an Asian community, is undoubtedly the best starting point in London. It has already become a distinctive feature for us, with thousands of people getting to witness the brand. We have plans to open nearly a dozen cafes across London, and the preparations are already underway.”
