Wasim Akram takes a pick at the city food war, says Lahore has history, but ‘Karachi offers more variety’
Former cricketer and coach Wasim Akram took to social media to weigh in on the Karachi vs Lahore food debate, sharing his thoughts on both cities’ cuisines, saying that there is definitely good food in Lahore, but Karachi offers more variety.
Akram posted an Instagram reel in which he said he had been watching the debate between Karachiites and Lahoris unfold online for quite some time. “ I have been seeing that a big debate is happening on social media. Karachi and Lahore’s swords have come out”, he joked.
The cricket legend said he was well-qualified to comment on the matter because of his long association with both cities.
“I have been living in Lahore for 42 years. I was born there, and I am a Lahori. But I have also been living in Karachi for the past 14 years, so I think I can settle this debate once and for all’, he said.
Karachi’s food is okay, but it lacks Lahore’s pedigree. With food giants serving same dish over a century, Lahore’s culinary heritage is in a league of its own. It’s the history behind food that makes it so special!! https://t.co/nVu9hdRpSY
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) May 6, 2026
Akram also referenced politician Fawad Chaudhry and his remarks about Karachi’s food being “okay.” Responding humorously, Akram said, “Chaudhry Sahib, which Karachi have you been seeing?”
The former fast bowler spoke about his love for food and shared that during his visit to Lahore for the PSL finals, he had the chance to revisit some of his favourite old spots for grilled chops and chaat.
However, when it came to deciding the debate, Akram admitted that Karachi stood out for its diversity of food.
“I’m sorry but the food in Karachi is diverse. All in one place, we have people of different nations, Pathans, Balochi, Punjabi’s and Karachi people. Whatever you take, it is a mix of food for everyone and you get different types of food in a restaurant”, he explained.
He added that Lahore, while famous for its food, is more known for specific dishes and locations.
Recalling a visit to Lahore’s famous food street near Badshahi Mosque, Akram said many cricket commentators enjoyed eating there, but he felt the city’s food had become overly spicy over the years.
“Food there has so many spices. Where did these peppers and creams come from in Lahori food?” he remarked jokingly.
Concluding the debate, Akram said, “There is definitely good food in Lahore, but Karachi offers more variety.”
He ended the video on a light-hearted note, joking in Punjabi, “Now please don’t come after me for my opinion.”
The discussion, ultimately, reflects the long-running Karachi vs. Lahore food debate — a light-hearted but deeply rooted rivalry in Pakistan’s urban culture, where both cities proudly defend their culinary identity.
While Karachi is often praised for its diversity and variety of cuisines from across the country, Lahore is celebrated for its rich, traditional, and spice-heavy food culture tied to its historic food streets.
