OURSTORY

From Pakistan's bustling streets to Chicago's heart. Traditional recipes, for generations strong.

Follow Our Journey

Every dish tells a story of heritage, passion, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Our journey began in 1996, with a simple mission: to share the soul of Pakistani cuisine with Chicago.

FROM PUNJABTO CHICAGO

1996 - The Beginning

Our founder, Ali, brought his family's treasured recipes from Pakistan's bustling food streets to Chicago.

First Kitchen

Started in the Farmlands of Pakistan, serving authentic Nihari to homesick Pakistani families.

Growing Legacy

Expanded to become Chicago's premier destination for authentic Pakistani BBQ and traditional dishes.

Today

Serving over 1,000 families daily, keeping the authentic tastes of Pakistan alive in every dish.

"

Every spice tells a story, every dish carries the warmth of home. This is not just food—it's our heritage served with love.

Ali Iftikhar

Founder & Head Chef

محبت سے پکایا گیا

Cooked with Love

OURHERITAGE

Traditional Recipes

Passed down through four generations, our recipes remain unchanged—each spice measured with the same care as our ancestors.

روایتی

Handcrafted Excellence

Every dish is prepared by hand, with meticulous attention to detail. No shortcuts, no compromises—just pure authenticity.

دستکاری

Community Roots

More than a restaurant, we're a gathering place where families create memories over meals that taste like home.

خاندان

WHAT MAKES USDIFFERENT

Slow-Cooked Perfection

Our Nihari simmers for 8 hours, allowing the spices to meld into a symphony of flavors that can't be rushed.

Fresh Daily Ingredients

We source the finest halal meats and grind our spices fresh every morning, ensuring unparalleled quality.

Authentic Tandoor

Our traditional clay tandoor, imported from Pakistan, gives our distinctive smoky char and flavor.

28

Years

Serving Chicago

50+

Dishes

Authentic Menu

1K+

Daily

Happy Customers

4.9

Stars

Average Rating

"The secret ingredient is always love—love for our craft, love for our heritage, and love for every customer who walks through our doors."

MEET THEMASTERS

Ali Iftikhar

Master Chef & Founder

With nearly 30 years of culinary expertise, Chef Ali brings the authentic flavors of Pakistan's legendary food scene to Chicago. Trained under master chefs in Pakistan, he has perfected the art of Nihari and traditional BBQ.

28+

Years Experience

100+

Recipes Mastered

4

Generations of Tradition

علی رضا

EXPERIENCE THETRADITION

Join us for an unforgettable culinary journey where every bite tells the story of our heritage.

ذائقہ جو یاد رہ جائے

© 2025 Ali's Nihari. All rights reserved. Halal Certified.

ذائقہ جو یاد رہ جائے

With <3 from

North Shore Labs