The blue-eyed Pakistani chaiwala who became an internet sensation now owns a cafe in London
In 2016, a Pakistani tea seller named Arshad Khan gained worldwide attention when a photograph of him captured by photographer Jiah Ali went viral. His striking appearance, particularly his blue eyes and intense gaze, earned him the nickname “Chaiwala,” meaning tea seller in Urdu.
Now, Arshad Khan is once again in the spotlight as he has ventured into the hospitality industry. He recently opened Cafe Chaiwala on Ilford Lane in East London. This location, known for its predominantly South Asian population, including Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis, offers a diverse and culturally rich community that aligns well with Khan’s background and the concept of his cafe.
Cafe Chaiwala provides customers with an opportunity to enjoy a variety of teas, along with other culinary delights. With its cozy ambiance and a menu inspired by traditional South Asian flavors, the cafe aims to offer a unique experience to visitors. Khan’s journey from being a humble tea seller in Pakistan to owning a cafe in London is a testament to the power of viral fame and the opportunities it can bring.
Khan’s success story highlights how social media and the internet can amplify the visibility and potential of individuals, opening doors to new possibilities. His journey from a local tea seller to an international entrepreneur serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with determination and the right opportunities, dreams can become a reality.
As Cafe Chaiwala continues to gain attention and attract customers in its new location, Arshad Khan’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of viral fame and the entrepreneurial spirit that can arise from unexpected circumstances.
Apart from the London location, the Café Chaiwala brand has expanded its presence in Pakistan as well. In addition to Islamabad, it has established outlets in Lahore and Murree, further solidifying its footprint in the country.
The London café aims to showcase and celebrate South Asian culture, creating a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. The interior design incorporates traditional elements like colorful truck art, hand-decorated Vespas, and desi paintings, immersing visitors in a visually captivating experience.
Arshad Khan has actively shared his entrepreneurial journey through his Instagram account, providing updates on the progress of the café and engaging with his fans. He has expressed his excitement about visiting London and personally brewing tea for customers, adding a personal touch to the café’s experience.
Through his social media presence, Khan continues to connect with his followers and supporters, sharing glimpses of the café’s unique ambiance and the cultural essence it represents. His dedication to promoting South Asian culture and his personal involvement in the café’s operations exemplify his passion and commitment to his entrepreneurial venture.
The expansion of Café Chaiwala from Pakistan to London demonstrates the brand’s growing popularity and the acceptance of its concept beyond national borders. It not only provides a platform for Khan to share his love for tea but also serves as a cultural bridge, introducing a taste of South Asian heritage to a global audience.
With the success of his cafés and his continued engagement with fans and customers, Arshad Khan’s entrepreneurial journey continues to inspire others, showcasing the power of social media and the ability to turn unexpected fame into a thriving business.Café Chaiwala, the brainchild of Arshad Khan, offers a modern take on the traditional tea stall concept while staying true to his cultural heritage. The café serves a diverse menu of 15-20 dishes, complemented by a variety of tea options.
Expressing his excitement about visiting London, Khan acknowledged the overwhelming support he has received from his fans, who have eagerly awaited his presence in the city. He mentioned that his fans have expressed their desire for him to personally brew tea for them during his visit.
The decision to open Café Chaiwala on Ilford Lane in East London was a strategic one, considering the area’s significant population of Pakistanis and Indians who have a fondness for chai (tea). The Durrani brothers, Khan’s partners in the venture, recognized the potential of this location as a hub for tea enthusiasts from South Asian backgrounds.
Khan expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic response the café has already received since its opening, indicating that the café is meeting the expectations of the local community. He plans to visit London soon to interact with his fans in person and provide them with an authentic tea experience.
By combining a modern ambiance with traditional flavors and influences, Café Chaiwala aims to create a unique space that resonates with people from diverse backgrounds. Khan’s commitment to his roots and the passion he brings to his entrepreneurial venture are evident in the café’s offerings and his personal involvement.
With the opening of Café Chaiwala in London, Khan’s global reach expands, allowing him to connect with a wider audience and share his love for tea and South Asian culture. His visit to London will not only fulfill the desires of his fans but also provide an opportunity for him to engage with the community and showcase his talent for brewing tea.
Overall, Café Chaiwala represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, and with Khan’s upcoming visit, the café promises an immersive and delightful experience for tea lovers and enthusiasts in London.After experiencing the rapid transformation brought by his viral fame, Khan had to navigate the overwhelming nature of his newfound celebrity status. Balancing modeling and acting offers with his previous life as a tea seller proved challenging. Recognizing the need for personal growth and professional development, Khan made a conscious decision to take a break from the spotlight.
During this time, Khan focused on honing his language skills and expanding his understanding of the business world. He saw the importance of leveraging his popularity and decided to venture into entrepreneurship. With a vision to build on his Chaiwala persona, he launched a rooftop café aptly named ‘Cafe Chaiwala Rooftop’.
This entrepreneurial endeavor allowed Khan to channel his identity and capitalize on the recognition he had gained. By embracing his journey as the Chaiwala, he transformed his fame into an opportunity to create a business that reflected his unique story. The café became a platform for Khan to share his passion for tea and South Asian culture, while also providing a space for people to connect and enjoy the ambiance of a rooftop setting.
Through Cafe Chaiwala Rooftop, Khan demonstrated his resilience and adaptability. He utilized his experiences and leveraged his fame to carve a new path for himself, combining his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for tea. By venturing into the hospitality industry, Khan continued to embrace his identity and showcase his ability to evolve and seize opportunities.
While the journey has not been without its challenges, Khan’s commitment to personal growth and his determination to make a mark in the business world have allowed him to thrive. Cafe Chaiwala Rooftop stands as a testament to his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, providing a platform for him to connect with people and share his love for tea and the cultural heritage he represents.
As Khan continues to navigate his entrepreneurial journey, his story serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of embracing one’s identity, leveraging opportunities, and pursuing one’s passion in the face of unexpected fame.
