Pasta La Vista is well-known for its pasta and pizzas, but their new restaurant, Cocta, in Raya, DHA, Lahore, takes it a step further by blending Italian warmth with continental elegance. The beautiful ambiance, tasteful furniture, and exquisite lighting create a perfect setting.
From classic Italian dishes to sophisticated continental cuisine, Cocta offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Here’s what we tried and loved:
Quinoa Kale Salad: Fresh kale tossed with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and candied walnuts, all dressed in a zesty mustard vinaigrette and infused with olive oil. This salad was super fresh and packed with flavor.
Pesto and Truffle Oil Pizza: A treat for pesto lovers! This pizza features a creamy pesto sauce, a blend of cheeses, smoked chicken, cherry tomatoes, granulated pistachio, basil leaves, and a drizzle of truffle oil.
Stuffed Chicken: We were pleasantly surprised by this dish. A chicken breast stuffed with spinach, artichoke, and cheese, served with mashed potatoes and butter mushrooms. It was a hearty and satisfying choice, even though we came primarily for the pizza and pasta.
Pistachio Milk Cake: This dessert was equally delicious, offering a rich and creamy finish to our meal.
We can’t wait to go back and try more from their menu, especially the tomato soup and tiramisu, which come highly recommended. Cocta is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of Italian and continental delights.
Nestled in DHA Phase 3, Lahore, The Krae is the newest eatery by Chef Zunaira Faisal and her talented team. This newly opened eatery boasts a beautifully designed space, featuring elegant furniture by Arshi Interiors designed and executed in collaboration with Arkmett.
Chef Zunaira, the creative force behind The Krae, has meticulously curated a menu that transforms each dish into a story, celebrating vibrant, fresh ingredients and innovative cuisine. Our dining experience at The Krae allowed us to sample a variety of things from the menu and here are our top picks.
The evening began with an array of refreshing drinks. The standout was undoubtedly the Berries Basil Lemonade.
We started with the dumplings, which were exceptional. The dumplings were paired with a flavorful sauce that elevated the dish. Another highlight was the chicken salad, which was delicious on its own but truly shone when enjoyed with the dumpling sauce—a combination worth considering for the menu.
The onion jam burger was delicious, featuring a juicy, well-cooked patty complemented by the sweet and savory notes of the onion jam.
The desserts were the highlight of our dining experience. The churros were perfectly crisp and paired with a delectable dipping sauce. The Tres Leches cake, with its rich, moist texture and exquisite flavor, made it the best item on the menu.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will showcase over 10,000 athletes competing in 32 different sports. With global attention focused on Paris, more than 200 countries will be represented in this grand event. Pakistan has confirmed its participation with an 18-member squad competing in athletics, shooting, and swimming. The Pakistani national team, featuring seven athletes, will begin their journey on July 26.
ATHLETICS
Arshad Nadeem (Qualified)
Arshad Nadeem, the pride of Pakistan in javelin throw, has secured his place in the Paris Olympics. Known for his exceptional performances, Nadeem clinched the gold at the NR Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, UK, and followed it up with a silver at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Faiqa Riaz (Wild Card)
Faiqa Riaz, another promising athlete, will represent Pakistan in the 100m sprint at the Paris Olympics. She has demonstrated her speed with a gold at the 2nd Aitchison Fastest Championship and topped the podium at the Rising Punjab Games 2024 in Lahore.
SHOOTING
Gulfam Joseph (Qualified)
Gulfam Joseph has qualified in shooting for the 10m Air Pistol individual event. He recently achieved a silver medal in the Air Pistol Men category at the Shooting Sports Championship of Thailand and contributed to a team bronze in the Air Pistol Mix Team event during the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship in Indonesia.
Kishmala Talat (Qualified)
Kishmala Talat will compete in multiple shooting events at the Paris Olympics, including the 10m Air Pistol and 25m Pistol categories. Her accolades include a bronze at the 19th Asian Games in China and a silver in the Air Pistol event at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship in Indonesia. She also claimed two gold medals at the Shooting Sports Championship of Thailand.
Ghulam Mustafa Bashir (Qualified)
Ghulam Mustafa Bashir has qualified in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event. His achievements include a bronze medal at the ISSF Shooting World Championship in Cairo and multiple medals at the South Asian Games in Nepal.
SWIMMING
Muhammad Ahmed Durrani (Wild Card)
Muhammad Ahmed Durrani earned a wild card entry for swimming in the 200m Freestyle event at the Paris Olympics. He showcased his prowess at the 66th MILO Malaysian Age Group Olympic Qualifiers and the 19th Singapore Open.
Jehanara Nabi (Wild Card)
Jehanara Nabi will join Durrani in the swimming events, competing in the 200m Freestyle. Her achievements include gold medals at the Fukuoka Japan National Games in both the 100m and 200m Freestyle events.
This diverse group of athletes from Pakistan is set to make its mark at the Paris Olympics 2024, showcasing skill, determination, and the spirit of sportsmanship on the global stage.
Haven’t we all dreamt of a career that feels like destiny? That’s the dream Kasif Ali lived, being a classical singer residing in the colourful and vibrant streets of Kutcha Setha, Lahore. But like most success stories, his journey wasn’t a straight line either. It’s a journey that was fuelled by his passion, that was tested by struggles, and was shaped by his victories.
Stepping into Kashif’s home is like entering Kucha Setha itself. The walls, soaked with music, speaks volumes about the generations of artists the street has produced. Imagine this: a faded blue wooden cabinet, with a pigeon inside peaking curiously through the sliding doors, a cloth draped on the wall with a frame and the Hamsa hanging proudly on the wall. Here, amidst the constant hum, sits Kashif, with stories waiting to be sung. For him, music wasn’t a choice he made. It was woven into the very fibre of his being. At just 12, under the guidance of his uncle and brother, he began his musical training. From that moment onwards, he dreamt of a world where his voice could travel through the narrow streets of Kutcha Setha to faraway lands.
“Success doesn’t come knocking. You have to value your craft, understand it and respect what you have created”
Kashif’s future wasn’t as harmonious as he had imagined. With inflation at it’s peak in the country, his professional life spiralled out of control, mirroring the struggles of countless others. Financial problems became a constant companion, and the dream of being known in the music world was slipping away. Making ends meet was a constant battle and life abroad seemed heavenly. Lured by promises of a ‘beautiful life and a handsome salary’ abroad, Kashif embarked on a journey he had never imagined. Falling victim to a devastating scam, he lost a significant amount of money.
Heart-broken but not defeated, he moved to Dubai. He constantly hunted for musical opportunities, but odd jobs became his reality. “I suffered a lot,” he recalls, “But I never lost hope.” Kasif’s resilience was what he needed to soar, and not just survive. His talent opened doors, and made way for opportunities. “It was like someone’s prayers for me had been answered.” From collaborating with Indian artists to performing at various social events; his music finally found a stage.
Even after decades of performing, Kashif sees himself as a student of his art, and believes it might take him a ‘lifetime to truly understand this art’. Kashif not only encourages passion, but emphasizes on values and hard work. “Success doesn’t come knocking, you have to value your craft, understand it and respect what you have created,” he stresses. And this understanding, he believes, empowers artist to demand respect and fair treatment. “Unlike Pakistan,” he shares, “I’m paid what I deserve quicker than my sweat dries in Dubai.”
Kashif’s story also highlights the hurdle of digital divide for Pakistani artists. Before every gig, artists are asked about their online presence and follower count as digital platforms like Tiktok and Instagram play a crucial role in promoting an artist in Dubai, while Pakistan’s opportunities solely depend on personal connections as artist lack basic digital knowledge and cannot showcase their talent to the best of their ability. This struggle resonates by many in the streets of Kucha Setha.
“This art is difficult to learn, but once you do; you understand it, you value it and you worship it”
Kashif’s journey of success hasn’t reached its destination, but it has travelled from the streets of Lahore to the stages of Dubai. It’s story of clinging onto hope for those who haven’t found their stage yet. It’s a reminder that talent carves its own path, and creates its own opportunities. “With the right tools and a determined spirit, you’ll be knocking at success’ door.”
His story isn’t unique, many aspiring singers from Kucha Setha are yearning for their voices to be heard but are battling the harsh realities of the music industry today. In a world that feels impersonal or disconnected, Kashif’s voice portrays raw emotion. A voice that would move you, inspire you and stay with you. So, the next time you hear a classical singer pouring their heart out, remember Kashif. Remember the countless voices waiting to be heard and known. Because somewhere in that aching tune, lies not only a singer, but a storyteller, a dreamer and a human. And who knows, your own song of success might just begin to play.
LILI by DEJA’s menu is curated from Khadija Shafqat’s cherished memories. It’s a journey through the cobblestone streets and quaint cafes of Paris, where every bite carries the whispers of romance and culinary delight.
Lili stands out as the most charming brunch spot for Lahoris. We sampled a variety of dishes from their menu, starting with the delightful warm mini croissants and bread with butter, followed by the Spinach Artichoke Dip (though we wished for more crackers), the exceptional Smashed Potato with chicken, and the inventive Nihari Tacos with their delicious green chili cream filling. The Breakfast Egg and Cheese Sandwich also impressed us.
Our beverage choices included cappuccino, Spanish Latte, and a surprisingly delightful Pina Colada (not listed on the brunch menu, but available upon request). We highly recommend it.
Additionally, we enjoyed warm, freshly baked scones paired with clotted cream and honey – sheer perfection.
Overall, Lili excels in both taste and presentation, offering a unique blend of delicious food, creative cafe concept, and elegant serveware – a true testament to Khadija’s ingenuity.
Celebrate Eid with Paperazzi and draw inspiration from our favourite creators for a truly memorable Eid.
Is Eid Par Konsa Meetha Bnayen?
Complete your Eid spread with sweetness! Cooking with Rida unveils her twist on Sheer Khurma, exclusively for Paperazzi followers. Make it for your friends, family or loved ones and enjoy!
Your signature Eid look:
Feeling unsure about your Eid outfit? Get inspired by Ayesha Hayat! Transform a solid ensemble from your wardrobe into your own signature Eid look by adding accessories. Solid outfits complement all body types flawlessly.
DIY Eid Serving Table:
This Eid, enchant your guests with a gorgeously adorned table, radiating springtime bliss, inspired by Meera’s Spring Eid setup. Gather an adjustable rod stand, artificial flowers, leaf vines, glass jars, jute twine, candles, Eid Mubarak standees, and your preferred dishes to create the perfect Eid table!
Minimal Henna Tutorial:
Eid is incomplete without Henna! Rabail Jahan Afroz, known as The Henna Girl, has graciously provided a lovely and simple Henna tutorial. Get inspired by her expertise and embellish your hands with this exquisite henna design.
Boys, take notes:
Gentlemen, it’s your cue to channel Shahmeer Khan’s style this Eid. Dust off that white Kurta from your wardrobe, slip into your Kolhapuris, and capture moments in your Nani’s backyard. Share the memories on Insta with the hashtag #EidWithPaperazzi.
Nestled along MM Alam Road in Gulberg, Lahore, Kai-Nikkei Cuisine Restaurant beckons with its innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, all within a stunning architectural masterpiece crafted by Architect INC. The restaurant’s design concept challenges convention, drawing inspiration from a parallel universe where the world is upside down, creating a mesmerizing ripple effect that permeates the ambiance with elements of Earth, water, and fire, evoking a sense of luxurious immersion.
Recently, we had the pleasure of experiencing Kai-Nikkei’s exclusive Ramadan All-You-Can-Eat Offer. From the vibrant Iftar Platter featuring dishes like Rock Shrimp Tempura, crispy Fried Wontons, and a refreshing Fruit Salad, to the irresistible main courses comprising Sushi, Teppanyaki, and Wok Specials, each dish presented a harmonious blend of flavours. Standout favorites included the aromatic Basil Chicken & Prawn Teppanyaki!
As if the savory offerings weren’t enough, the dessert menu elevated our dining experience to new heights. The Cardamom Milk Cake, infused with spices, and the heavenly Chocolate Fudge with Walnut Brownie & Vanilla Soft Serve transported us to a realm of pure indulgence.
What’s more, the Ramadan All-You-Can-Eat Offer, priced at just 5,950 Pakistani Rupees per person, offers exceptional value for those seeking to immerse themselves in a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine dining or simply looking to explore new flavors, Kai-Nikkei Cuisine promises an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
Burning Brownie gained popularity in Islamabad and has now expanded its offerings to Lahore. The extensive menu at Burning Brownie includes cakes, pastries, cheesecakes, brownies, and much more. The menu also features breakfast options.
We sampled the Pain Perdu, Omelet, and Scrambled Eggs from the breakfast menu. The omelet was perfectly cooked and fluffy with onions, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, jalapeños, mushrooms, and cheese. Served alongside grilled tomatoes, air-roasted potatoes, sausages, fresh green salad, and white bread, it was a treat for the taste buds.
Equally satisfying were the softly set scrambled eggs, complemented by sautéed potatoes, roasted tomatoes, sausages, fresh green salad, and white bread – a comforting and flavorful combination.
A standout among the breakfast offerings was the PAIN PERDU, stealing the show with its golden-brown slices, expertly caramelized to achieve a delightful crispness on the outside and a soft interior. It was paired with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
While our appetites were satiated with the breakfast choices, we couldn’t resist exploring Burning Brownie’s renowned desserts. Opting for the Burning Brownie cheesecake, hazelnut pastry, and a selection of other tempting treats, we were thoroughly impressed by the quality and finesse of each dessert.
On a radiant Sunday evening, the renowned Sadaf Fawad Khan took center stage to unveil the much-anticipated ‘SIRAA Luxury Lawn ’24’ collection. The event, flawlessly coordinated by the talented Shireen Rehman, witnessed a dazzling turnout, with notable figures gracing the occasion, including the stunning Hikmat sisters, Aymen and Ammara, alongside the graceful Mariyam Nafees and many more.
We thoroughly enjoyed the nostalgic elements, from gajre to paan and tulsi. Gully Bites treated us to scrumptious Gujarati puri and refreshing strawberry juice.
As the evening unfolded, attendees were treated to the enchanting melodies of Zeeshan Ali, elevating the event’s allure. The perfect synergy of fashion and musical artistry marked the debut of SIRAA Luxury Lawn ’24 as an unforgettable experience.
Bennysbybenediction, the latest venture by the duo behind Benediction, Hannan & Hania, is now welcoming the public. This place seamlessly combines bakery, patisserie, and Test Kitchen.
The branding, ambiance, and overall atmosphere radiate beauty, akin to a Pinterest dream—a perfect setting for capturing Instagram-worthy content and enjoying the charming vibes.
Our culinary exploration through the menu introduced us to favorites like the Salmon & Cream Cheese Chopped Bagel and the Shredded Roast Beef Melt in Sourdough Ciabatta—truly delicious!
Executive Pastry Chef Farman served us luscious gluten-free orange cake, super moist and bursting with flavor. Try it before the conclusion of the Orange season.
With a diverse array of pastry desserts and other items available at Benny’s, Team Paperazzi is already looking forward to the next visit!
