Founders of MyLahore, cousins Asghar Ali, Shakoor Ahmed, and Ishfaq Farooq, were honoured with Outstanding Contribution Awards from the University of Bradford for their impact on the city.
The trio grew up in Yorkshire surrounded by a blend of British and Asian cultures, which inspired them to open a restaurant that celebrates the best of both worlds.
“We saw a gap,” said Asghar. “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 pioneering vision grew into MyLahore, a Bradford-based restaurant chain that has since turned into a national success. Just steps away from their flagship location on Great Horton Road, the founders were awarded Outstanding Contribution Awards from the University of Bradford.
Ishfaq, a Business Management alumnus of the University, reflected on the honour: “Sitting there as a student, I never imagined that one day I’d be honoured in this way. My message to graduates is simple: believe in your vision, work hard, and embrace the opportunities ahead.”
The cousins launched MyLahore in 2002 with experience gained from working in restaurants as teenagers. Determined to open their first restaurant, they pooled family resources and balanced their growing business with their ongoing education.
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.”
MyLahore now has five successful restaurants across the UK, employing more than 500 people. The restaurant has also expanded 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 was recognised for its cultural significance.
Community involvement has always been at the heart of MyLahore’s mission. From hosting Covid-19 vaccination clinics to donating thousands of meals to those in need, the restaurant group has consistently worked to give back.
Through partnerships like the Muslim Women’s Council’s Curry Circle, which feeds more than 100 people a week, and campaigns supporting local charities, MyLahore has become a symbol of giving back.
Shakoor, a father of four, remarked, “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.”
The trio 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 have driven the cousins 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 spirit was best symbolised in 2020 when MyLahore received royal recognition, with Prince William and his wife Catherine visiting their Bradford branch.
Looking to the future, the team is preparing for Bradford’s 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations, where MyLahore will play a central role in showcasing the city’s dynamic culinary scene.
Shakoor summarised their journey, saying: “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.”
Asian Standard congratulates all three founders and all students who are graduating.
