Curries and puddings: How restaurant founders spotted a gap in the market

As young boys growing up in Yorkshire, cousins Asghar Ali, Shakoor Ahmed and Ishfaq Farooq were inspired by the fusion of British and Asian cultures that surrounded them.

School lunches of shepherd's pie and jam roly poly sparked their love for food, while traditional home-cooked curries reminded them of their heritage. These experiences planted the seeds for a pioneering idea: a place that would celebrate the best of both worlds.

“We saw a gap,” said Asghar, 49. “Back then, restaurants served either British or Asian food, but not both. We wanted to create a place that told the British Asian story, combining curries, pasta, paninis and puddings - a celebration of diversity.”

This vision became MyLahore, a Bradford-based restaurant chain that has grown into a national success story. Yesterday, just steps away from their flagship branch on Great Horton Road, the trio were honoured with Outstanding Contribution Awards from the University of Bradford for their impact on the city.

Ishfaq, 38, who studied Business Management at the University, pictured above, received the awards on behalf of the trio.

He said: “Sitting there as a student at my own graduation, I never imagined that one day I’d be honoured in this way. My message to graduates today is simple: believe in your vision, work hard and embrace the opportunities ahead.”

The journey to success

The cousins launched MyLahore in 2002, building on their experience working in restaurants as teenagers. Balancing education with their growing business, they pooled family resources and determination to open their first location.

Ishfaq, a father of four, recalled: “I was studying for my GCSEs while washing dishes in the evenings. We printed our first menus on a school printer because we couldn’t afford our own.”

Today, MyLahore operates five restaurants across the UK, employs more than 500 people, and has diversified into online food services and event catering. Last year, the business was named SME of the Year (Small to Medium Enterprise) at the Bradford Means Business Awards and recognised as a beacon of cultural pride.

Giving back to the community

From the outset, MyLahore has been about more than just food. 

“The name ‘MyLahore’ reflects our commitment to inclusivity - it’s for everyone,” said Asghar.

Community impact has been central to their mission, from hosting Covid-19 vaccination clinics to donating thousands of meals to those in need.

Through partnerships with the likes of the Muslim Women’s Council’s Curry Circle, which feeds more than 100 people a week, as well as campaigns supporting local charities, MyLahore exemplifies the spirit of giving back.

Shakoor, a father of four, added: “Our journey has been about more than business. It’s about MyLahore being a vehicle to do good by contributing to the community and creating a positive impact.”

A legacy of resilience and gratitude

The cousins often reflect on the sacrifices of their parents and grandparents, who emigrated from Pakistan to work in Yorkshire’s mills. Their determination and work ethic inspired a drive to succeed while staying grounded.

“We carry that legacy forward,” said Ishfaq. “Our story is one of resilience and gratitude. The UK has given us so much, and we are proud to give back.”

This ethos is perhaps best symbolised by the royal recognition MyLahore received when Prince William and his wife Catherine visited their Bradford branch in 2020.

Looking ahead, the team is gearing up for Bradford’s 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations, when MyLahore will play a central role in showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

Shakoor summarised their journey: “Our families came here to add value, and we’ve built on that foundation. To now be part of Bradford’s biggest cultural moment is an incredible honour.”