It isn’t curtains yet for a popular street food restaurant that’s been serving Mississauga residents for the better part of a decade.
That said, the future of the unique hot spot is uncertain.
Today, Laari Adda, a Pakistani street food eatery that’s been serving chai, curries, kebabs, rolls, wraps and more from its Erin Mills location on Thomas Street since 2018, announced that while they hope the restaurant’s story continues, the current owners won’t be the only ones continuing to operate the space indefinitely.
“After 8+ years, this might be the hardest post for us,” a video posted to social media reads.
“Laari Adda was never just a restaurant; it was memories. Late-night chai. Laughter. A place that felt like home. You made it what it is. And now, it’s time for a new chapter. We’re looking for someone to take over Laari Adda because some stories deserve to be continued.”
The restaurant, which operators say began as a “Desi daydream” that morphed into a colourful, authentic Pakistani street food experience, quickly racked up accolades for its vast menu, late hours, catering options and occasional events.
Beyond food, the restaurant also offers a bright, colourful interior that draws on the vibrant decor frequently encountered in India and Pakistan.
In terms of food, restaurant operators marked their grand opening by saying that “Laari Addas (which translates to “truck stop” in Urdu) in Pakistan are famous for delicious street food and that is exactly what we are bringing back with a modern twist.”
In a 2024 video shared on the restaurant’s social media, co-founder Jawwad Raza says the restaurant’s opening was serendipitous and unexpected, inspired by a meal at a Toronto restaurant while he was still working in finance.
“It was just a coincidence that inspired us to start Laari Adda,” he said in the video.
“We were visiting a restaurant downtown for lunch while I was at work and it was also a street food style concept, and that is where we sort of came up with the idea, with the thought that Pakistan had a lot to offer in terms of its street food offering and the art, specifically the truck art.”
The news that the team is stepping away from the restaurant was met with shock online, with patrons sharing memories of Laari Adda’s tenure in the city.
“The very first truly Pakistani restaurant of its kind that gave such strong Karachi vibes played Pakistani music,” one poster wrote on Instagram.
“Felt like home. I still remember how excited I was when you guys first opened. Definitely a pioneer in the GTA for this!”
Others wished the team well.
“Upwards and onwards. Wish you guys all the best!” another poster wrote.
In the latest post, operators thank patrons for their support and ask anyone interested in taking the reins to reach out.
“Thank you for all your love and support for the past 8 years. Laari Adda was and is the first of its kind. All your support and love definitely did not go unnoticed,” the post reads.
“As we embark on a new chapter, we are excited to see who carries our legacy forward. Please reach out to us via email ([email protected]) or DM us for more information!”
Cover photo from Laari Adda’s official Facebook page
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