Recently, a new desi eating joint has opened up in Karachi with an interesting interior. You! takes a look...
interior
Recently, a new desi eating joint has opened up in Karachi with an interesting
interior. You! takes a look...
At a time when Karachiites are being spoilt rotten by the multiple food chains that are opening up in our city left right and centre, Umair Tariq Khan decided to go the ‘desi’ way and opened the doors of ‘Desi Express’, off Sindhi Muslim, recently in a subdued yet impressive manner. Umair Tariq Khan, Hassan Hussain and Faiza Taqi Hassan are partners in this venture which is all set to be a hit - courtesy their specialised recipes and offbeat and eye catching interior.
However, the interesting interior design and decor makes this place stand out from the rest of the bistros. The interior of ‘Desi Express’, done by Fatima Taqi, is extremely vibrant and welcoming. Even though, Fatima doesn’t have a professional degree in interior designing, she has done a great job. And the minute you enter the joint you feel revitalised by the liberal use of colours in the interior.
“We wanted a trendy and contemporary place, with a desi feel to it. Since our logo is blue and orange, we wanted something to complement it. In order to liven up the place, we decided to add colourful accents. Hence we opted for vibrant hues that echoed the artwork Pakistanis are so famous for,” explains Umair Tariq Khan.
Following a truck art inspired theme, the eatery has a bright and eye catching decor. And keeping that theme in mind the place has been decked up with the right kind of artefacts and accessories. “The artefacts that we have used are a mix of accessories that we felt would give the place a desi touch. The trucks and buses on the walls represent the exceptional art work that our country boasts of, and the paisleys on the mirrors represent all the gorgeous handiwork of our artisans. There is also an antique mirror frame central to the restaurant, which bears testimony to the classic and intricate work done by our talented craftsmen. However, the highlight of our eatery are the exquisite hand-painted plates that have been painted by a local woman,” shares Khan.
When asked where Umair likes to sit back and relax at the bistro, he informs, “Well, my favourite spot would be the sitting area outside, right across our eating place. We have painted the wall as a busy food street with vibrant colours and the various modes of public transport. This specific spot gives you the feeling of being at a busy juncture on the street while you enjoy your desi food.”
The entire place has been done in muted hues and the owners opted for simple and basic furniture in shades of brown so as to keep the focus on the truck art inspired decorative items. As for the menu, it is a mix of chapli kababs, salateen namkeen karhai, Sindhi masala karhai, malai boti, beef bihari boti and parathas (aloo and chicken cheese), to name some while their shahi tukra is to die for. Soon ‘Desi Express’ will be introducing handi and desi fast food like tikka burger and naan sandwich. The eatery place aims to provide good, clean, desi food in a cool and comfortable environment “where the masses can sit and enjoy a decent meal,” tells Umair.
So, all you desi food buffs, if you are looking for a desi contemporary joint, you know where exactly you are headed next!
Photography: Naqeeb ur Rehman
