Table Talk: Waza

We chat with the team behind Waza

Husband and wife, Adnan Ahmed Lone and Sehr Savul talk to us about their new restaurant Waza. Offering the taste and atmosphere of Kashmir, Waza aims to provide its patrons with an authentic Kashmiri experience. From the inspiration and popular dishes on the menu to the secret behind sustaining a restaurant, they tell us all.



What inspired you to open Waza’s doors to people of Lahore?

The heritage and the culture of Kashmir inspired the idea of Waza. A few years ago we decided to launch a Kashmiri food restaurant here in Lahore but we wanted the food to taste as authentic as possible so we worked on getting our chefs from Srinagar and that is how Waza came about.

Is Waza’s menu diverse enough to offer something to people who haven’t developed a taste for Kashmiri Food?

We offer two types of menus; one is comprised of traditional Kashmiri wazan while the other offers general Pakistani cuisine. So whether you are craving an authentic Kashmiri feast or are in the mood for some curries and barbecue, Waza has got you covered.

Three dishes you think everyone should try from your menu?

For someone who prefers subtle flavour, we have the Ab Gosht. For people who like their food a little spicy, we have the Mirchwangan Korma. Apart from that we believe everyone should try our Mutton Payas.

How would you describe Waza and its meals?

Waza is a place where you can enjoy not only the subtle taste of Kashmir but the aura of it as well.



Are all items prepared using authentic Kashmiri spices and recipes or did you have to tweak the recipes to localise the taste?

This question was recently answered by a Kashmiri migrant family who came over to try our food. They are our regular patrons and love the food that we offer here at Waza. They have in fact stated that not only the food but the ambiance as well reminds them of home, which is in Srinagar.



What is the secret behind sustaining a restaurant?

As a restaurateur you must always make sure to provide your patrons with a hygienic, hospitable and a relaxing atmosphere. Apart from that, using quality ingredients for the food you serve is of utmost importance as well. We have been fortunate enough to have a team of hardworking individuals working with us, who help in keeping Waza afloat for all the right reasons.

What do you consider to be the most underrated dish?

We don’t think any dish should be underrated. While we love all the items on the menu, we’re also  learning that no matter how hard we strive to please everyone there will always be people who simply haven’t developed the palette for the kind of food that we serve.