Top Ice Cream Places in Lahore You Must Try This Summer
Whether you're in DHA, Gulberg, or Johar Town, you will find many ice cream parlours that serve your favorite scoops. This guide will help you find the best ice cream places in Lahore to visit this summer.
Ice cream has always been popular in Lahore, but in recent years, we've seen even more new ice cream parlours in Lahore popping up. Why? Because people now have more options, better flavors and even home delivery. Thanks to food apps, you can easily search for ice cream near me and get your favorite scoop delivered to your door.
Families love going out for ice cream after dinner. Students enjoy hanging out at trendy spots with friends. Couples often choose cozy ice cream cafes for their dates. Whether you're in DHA, Johar Town or anywhere else in Lahore, there's always an ice cream place nearby waiting to serve you something sweet and cold.
The demand for dairy ice cream, frozen desserts and unique ice cream flavors continues to rise. From Pakistani ice cream brands to global names, the variety available today is truly impressive. You'll find everything from classic mango and pista ice cream to premium brands offering creative flavors like pistachio almond, chocolate fudge, Snickers Joy, Jalebi Baby and caramel crunch.
Many ice cream parlours in Lahore now focus on using fresh fruit, organic dairy and creative toppings to stay ahead of the competition.
Let's start with some famous international ice cream brands in Lahore that offer a luxurious experience.
Häagen-Dazs is known all over the world for its rich, creamy ice cream made with top-quality ingredients. In Lahore, you can find Häagen-Dazs in DHA Phase 5 and a few other areas.
As a premium ice cream brand in Lahore, it offers flavors that feel like pure luxury. Whether you go for their classic vanilla, salted caramel, or the rich Belgian chocolate, every bite delivers a silky texture you won't forget.
You can't make a list of the top ice cream brands in Pakistan without mentioning Baskin-Robbins. Known for its famous 31 flavors, it offers endless choices, from classic mint chocolate chip to pralines and cream. It's the perfect stop whether you want a quick ice cream scoop or a full-on ice cream tub for home.
Baskin-Robbins is a global favorite among ice cream lovers. Some crowd favorites include Pralines 'n Cream, Jamoca Almond Fudge and Very Berry Strawberry. With multiple locations across Lahore, Baskin-Robbins is a favorite for families and kids looking for the best ice cream places near me options anytime.
Now let's talk about the new ice cream spots in Lahore that are super popular, especially among young people who love Instagram-worthy desserts.
SLAP Ice Cream stands for 'Sounds Like A Plan'. At SLAP! Every scoop serves happiness. Made with 100% pure dairy and real ingredients, SLAP Ice cream offers a wide variety of flavors that brings you the true taste of ice cream. Fresh, rich and full of love — every bite is a moment to enjoy.
Popular picks include Jalebi Baby, Chocolate Heaven, Strawberry Dream and their famous Blizzards, where you can mix toppings into your ice cream.
They have shops in DHA Phase 6, CSD Shopping Mall and Johar Town, along with several branches across Lahore, offering cool interiors, fun vibes and plenty of new and unique flavors.
If you're looking for the best ice cream places in Lahore, SLAP Ice Cream should be on your list for its unique flavors and multiple locations across the city.
Sweet Cream focuses on small-batch, high-quality ice cream using natural ingredients. It has quickly become one of the most talked-about ice cream places in Lahore for its flavors like Super Cornetto Cup, Super Pista Badam and blizzards.
Sweet Cream is now considered one of the best premium ice cream brands in Lahore, with branches in areas like DHA, Gulberg, Iqbal town and across Lahore.
At Soft Swirl, it's all about the soft ice cream. Their silky smooth texture, wide range of flavors and customizable toppings make it perfect for people who love simple but delicious treats.
Whether you want a soft ice cream cone or a loaded sundae, they've got you covered. Their creamy texture and simple menu make them a reliable option for a casual outing.
Soft Swirl has multiple branches across Lahore, including DHA, Johar Town, Iqbal Town and several other areas of the city.
Not everyone wants a heavy dairy dessert. Lush Crush Ice Pops offers fresh fruit ice creams and strawberry blush ice creams made with natural ingredients. Their popsicles are a refreshing alternative, especially for those who are health-conscious but still want to enjoy a frozen treat.
Located in DHA, Gulberg, Johar Town and other areas of Lahore, Lush Crush is perfect if you want something light, fresh and guilt-free.
If you love ice cream toppings, this is your place. Waffles by Alamgir serves thick special waffle nutty creamy scoops of ice cream, fresh fruit and syrups. It's the perfect dessert stop for a late-night sweet tooth.
If you love waffles AND ice cream, Waffles by Alamgir is your spot. Their Nutella Waffles topped with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream are simply amazing.
Located in the main market Gulberg and other popular areas, it's a great place to enjoy a complete dessert experience.
Pomys may not be as widely known, but it's a place that delivers creamy perfection. Their thick, dense ice cream tubs are perfect for families. Flavors like mango, pista and chocolate brownie are standout favorites.
One of the lesser-known yet highly loved ice cream places in Lahore is Pomys. Known for its rich, creamy texture and a variety of flavors, it's a perfect spot for families looking for takeaway tubs or late-night dessert runs.
Pomys is a hidden gem located in Model Town, Lahore. They make small batches of fresh, creamy ice cream that feels homemade.
If you're wondering where to eat ice cream in Lahore that reflects local flavors and traditions, these Pakistani ice cream parlors are must-visits.
Ask any Lahori about their favorite childhood ice cream place and chances are they'll say Chaman Ice Cream. Chaman is one of the oldest and most loved ice cream parlors in Lahore. For decades, Lahoris have enjoyed its classic flavors like Pistachio, Mango, and Kulfa.
Delicious, budget-friendly, and always buzzing with customers, Chaman has become a true part of Lahore's food culture.
Located on Mall Road, Ferozepur Road, and several other branches across the city, Chaman remains affordable, tasty, and a true part of Lahore's food culture.
Chaudairy Ice Cream merges classic Pakistani ice cream flavors with modern presentation. Their kulfi, pista badam and falooda flavors attract those who enjoy both tradition and innovation.
With a mix of traditional and newer offerings, Chaudairy Ice Cream gives you that perfect balance. Their dairy ice cream is rich, fresh and often topped with nuts and syrups for that classic Pakistani flair. Chaudairy mixes traditional Pakistani flavors with a modern touch.
Jay Bee's Ice Cream has built its name on fresh, small-batch ice creams made with high-quality ingredients. Their flavors are both traditional and creative, like roasted almond, coffee walnut and falooda-inspired specials. This is where you go when you're searching for something homemade but premium.
Among the local ice cream places in Lahore, Jay Bee's Ice Cream stands out for its homemade, small-batch approach. Offering flavors like roasted almond, coffee walnut and falooda-inspired blends, Jay Bee's is a local favorite for its homemade style ice creams. You'll find rich flavors like Nutella, Salted Caramel and Coffee Walnut.
Their outlets in Johar Town and Gulberg are popular among families and young people. If you search for the best ice cream places in Johar Town Lahore, Jay Bee's will surely show up.
Joy Ice Cream offers some of the most affordable yet tasty options in town. Perfect for kids and large families, their soft ice cream cones and sundaes are easy on the wallet but full of flavor. Joy Ice Cream is affordable, offers plenty of flavors and is perfect for families on a budget. If you want good ice cream without spending too much, Joy Ice Cream delivers.
If you're searching on Google for an ice cream parlour in Gulberg, Lahore, there's a good chance Joy is nearby.
Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy your ice cream tour of Lahore even more: Go in the evening: It's cooler and perfect for ice cream.
It's cooler and perfect for ice cream. Avoid rush hours: Visit early or late to skip the crowds.
Visit early or late to skip the crowds. Try new flavors: Don't always stick to chocolate or vanilla — explore!
Don't always stick to chocolate or vanilla — explore! Use delivery apps: Many ice cream places in Lahore offer home delivery through Foodpanda, Cheetay and Careem.
Many ice cream places in Lahore offer home delivery through Foodpanda, Cheetay and Careem. Watch for deals: Family-size tubs and combo offers are often available.
Family-size tubs and combo offers are often available. Check hygiene: Choose clean, reputable shops with good customer reviews.
Lahore's rich and diverse food culture makes it a true paradise for ice cream lovers looking for the best ice cream brands in Lahore and a wide variety of ice cream parlors to explore.
Whether you're searching for international luxury, traditional flavors, or trendy new concepts, the wide range of ice cream places in Lahore guarantees you'll find your perfect scoop.
This summer, don't settle for just one shop — try a few! Grab your friends or family, visit some of these top ice cream places in Lahore and enjoy the sweet side of summer.
So next time you're craving something cold, grab your friends and explore the best ice cream places Lahore has to offer!
Where can I find the best ice cream in Lahore?
Häagen-Dazs, SLAP Ice Cream and Sweet Cream are some of the best ice cream places in Lahore, depending on your budget and taste.
Are there affordable ice cream shops in Lahore?
Yes! SLAP Ice Cream and Joy offer great taste at low prices.
Which ice cream parlour offers delivery?
Many parlours like Baskin-Robbins, Sweet Cream and Jay Bee's offer ice cream delivery near me through apps.
Where can I find traditional Pakistani ice cream in Lahore?
Chaman Ice Cream, Jay Bee's and Chaudairy Ice Cream are top spots for classic Pakistani flavors.
What is the most famous Pakistani ice cream brand?
Sweet Cream, Chaman and Jay Bee's are among the most loved Pakistani ice cream brands in Lahore.
Do ice cream places in Lahore offer home delivery?
Many places provide delivery services through apps like Foodpanda, Cheetay and Careem.
What's the new most famous Pakistani ice cream place in Lahore?
SLAP Ice Cream is one of the new and trendy ice cream places in Lahore.
Which international ice cream brands are available in Lahore?
Häagen-Dazs and Baskin-Robbins are two popular international brands serving Lahoris.
TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UPI
15 hours ago
- UPI
Michael Imperioli joins Patrick Dempsey 'Memory of a Killer' series
1 of 5 | Michael Imperioli, seen at the 2023 SAG Awards in Los Angeles, has joined the cast of Fox's "Memory of a Killer" series. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo July 1 (UPI) -- Fox announced Tuesday that it has cast Michael Imperioli to star alongside Patrick Dempsey in Memory of a Killer, which will air midseason. Dempsey was cast in May. Warner Bros. Television and Fox Entertainment co-produce. The show is based on the 2003 Belgian film. Dempsey will play hitman Angelo Ledda, who is keeping his early onset Alzheimer's a secret. Imperioli will play Dutch, a Bronx restaurateur and crime boss who assigns Angelo his targets. Ed Whitmore and Tracey Malone adapt the film and executive produce. Dempsey recently played the Miami police captain on the prequel Dexter: Original Sin. Imperioli was recently on Season 2 of The White Lotus and the Hulu series This Fool. Imperioli is best known for The Sopranos, in which he played Tony Soprano's protege Christopher Moltisanti. Dempsey was on Grey's Anatomy for 11 seasons, on which his doctor character was dubbed "McDreamy."
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- Buzz Feed
40 Best LGBTQ+ Movies To Watch
I'm tired of seeing the same 10 films on every website's LGBTQ+ movie roundup (hey, I still love Call Me By Your Name and Moonlight just as much as the next person, so don't come for me!), so, as a queer person myself, I wanted to shine a light on some underrated movies that simply don't get the attention or credit they deserve. Below are 40 that I genuinely think you'll love, and if you want even more suggestions you can check out my running list on Letterboxd with nearly 250 films. Enjoy! Young Hearts (2024) is a modern coming-of-age story about two 14-year-old boys who fall in love for the first time. This Belgian movie is awkward and sweet and painfully real. I can't rave enough about it, and the only downside is that it wasn't released 20 years ago when I was their age and needed it most. Who's in it: Marius De Saeger, Lou Goossens, and Geert Van Rampelberg Here's the trailer: National Anthem (2024) is one of my favorite movies from the last few years, so I'm sort of hoping (well, demanding) that you watch it. It's a tender, refreshing look at queerness and chosen family and what it means to actually belong. Too many people are sleeping on Charlie Plummer, but I need the world to know that he is, was, and always will be a star. Who's in it: Charlie Plummer, Eve Lindley, Robyn Lively, and Mason Alexander Park Here's the trailer: Other People (2016) is centered around a gay comedy writer (Jesse Plemons) who moves home to take care of his dying mother (Molly Shannon). It was written and directed by Chris Kelly, who co-created The Other Two and was an SNL head writer, and it's equal parts funny, sad, and heartfelt. Who's in it: Molly Shannon, Jesse Plemons, Bradley Whitford, John Early, Maude Apatow, June Squibb, and Zach Woods Here's the trailer: The Wedding Banquet (2025) is a remake of the iconic 1993 film. This one stars all your favorite people (Bowen Yang! Lily Gladstone! Kelly Marie Tran!), and they're all queer but have to fake a straight wedding to appease their traditional family. It's modern and fun and funny and a breath of fresh air. Who's in it: Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Han Gi-chan, Joan Chen, and Youn Yuh-jung Here's the trailer: A Secret Love (2020) is a documentary about two women who fell in love but kept their lesbian relationship a secret for nearly 70 years. Their names are Pat and Terry, and Terry used to be a pro baseball player in the 1940s, a la A League of Their Own. At one point I was audibly sobbing so hard that I literally had to pause the movie to collect myself, so good luck. Who's in it: Terry Donahue, Pat Henschel, and Diana Bolan Here's the trailer: Deathtrap (1982) is a campy murder mystery about a washed-up playwright (Michael Caine) and his hot, young student (Christopher Reeve). It's twisty and full of surprises and will have you laughing out loud. Ugh, I just love this black comedy so much. Who's in it: Christopher Reeve, Michael Caine, and Dyan Cannon Here's the trailer: Stranger by the Lake (2013) is an erotic French thriller that you should NOT watch with your parents. It's set at a nude beach where men like to cruise, but things get especially intense after a murder occurs. Y'all want to see some penises? Well, this movie is for you! Who's in it: Pierre Deladonchamps, Christophe Paou, and Patrick d'Assumçao Here's the trailer: I Saw the TV Glow (2024) is a surreal movie about queer identity that may leave you with more questions than answers. This one is the ultimate fever dream, and it's probably best if you go into it blindly, so have fun. Who's in it: Justice Smith, Jack Haven, Danielle Deadwyler, and Fred Durst Here's the trailer: All of Us Strangers (2023) is a realllllly tender, emotional story about love, loss, and the ghosts that linger in our lives. Andrew Scott somehow didn't get an Oscar nod for his performance (but he should have won the entire thing!), and I'll never forgive the Academy for not giving Jamie Bell a nomination either. Who's in it: Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Jamie Bell, and Claire Foy Here's the trailer: Mysterious Skin (2004) stars a young Joseph Gordon-Levitt in a devastating, raw, and powerful look at how trauma can impact you and your life forever. This one is DARK yet stunning, and it will absolutely wreck you. Who's in it: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Brady Corbet, Michelle Trachtenberg, Jeffrey Licon, and Elisabeth Shue Here's the trailer: Passing (2021) is an adaptation of the Nella Larsen novel. It follows two Black women (one who's passing as white) who reunite in 1920s New York. It's tense and haunting but also so gorgeous that you can't help but look away. Who's in it: Ruth Negga, Tessa Thompson, Alexander Skarsgård, and André Holland Here's the trailer: Parting Glances (1986) is a groundbreaking movie because it was one of the first to address AIDS in a realistic way. It features Steve Buscemi in one of his first acting roles ever, and the best part is that this movie treats its gay characters like ~real~ people. This is a tiny film that the general population doesn't even know exists, but, wow, it sure does pack a punch. Who's in it: Steve buscemi, Kathy Kinney, Richar Ganoung, and Adam Nathan Here's the trailer: Tragedy Girls (2017) is a campy slasher film about two death-obsessed teenagers who become serial killers in an effort to boost their social media following. It's super fun and funny, and I'm mad that more people haven't heard of it. Who's in it: Alexandra Shipp, Brianna Hildebrand, Josh Hutcherson, Jack Quaid, Austin Abrams, and Craig Robinson Here's the trailer: Tea and Sympathy (1956) follows a "sensitive" prep school teen who's bullied by the other students and teachers for being different. He finds solace in an older woman, played by Deborah Kerr, and the whole thing is just sooooo pretty to look at. Who's in it: Deborah Kerr, Leif Erickson, John Kerr, and Edward Andrews Here's the trailer: Beach Rats (2017) stars my king, Harris Dickinson, in an intimate, messy look at what it's like to grow up and struggle to find your place in the world. He plays a closeted teen in Brooklyn who hangs out with his friends during the day but cruises older men online at night. If you want something quiet yet hypnotic then this is for you. Who's in it: Harris Dickinson, Madeline Weinstein, and Kate Hodge Here's the trailer: The Gospel According to André (2017) is a documentary about André Leon Talley, the larger-than-life Vogue editor who helped shape (and redefine) the fashion industry. The whole thing is a celebration of excellence and style and being unapologetically yourself. Who's in it: André Leon Talley, Anna Wintour, Whopi Goldberg, Fran Lebowitz, and Tom Ford Here's the trailer: Passages (2023) is easily one of the spiciest movies from the last few years. It's about toxic love (one of the men in a gay relationship has an affair with a woman!), and things get wilddddddddd. You will see every single inch of Ben Whishaw in this film, and, wow, I'm still so mad that he didn't get an Oscar nomination for his performance. Who's in it: Ben Whishaw, Franz Rogowski, and Adèle Exarchopoulos Here's the trailer: Flee (2021) is a breathtaking animated documentary about a gay Afghan refugee who's telling his story for the first time. This movie has so much emotional depth, and it was actually nominated for three Oscars (Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary, and Best International Film). It's a must-watch. Who's in it: Amin Nawabi and Jonas Poher Rasmussen Here's the trailer: Torch Song Trilogy (1988) is an unapologetically queer story about a gay drag performer in New York City. This one will make you want to beg Harvey Fierstein to write more movies. It also stars Anne Bancroft and a young Matthew Broderick, so I guess dreams really do come true. Who's in it: Harvey Fierstein, Anne Bancroft, and Matthew Broderick Here's the trailer: Of an Age (2022) is a romantic drama that's centered around a young guy who has an unexpected hookup with his best friend's older brother. There are a bunch of cool twists that occur, and I promise they'll make you feel every emotion possible. Who's in it: Elias Anton, Thom Green, and Hattie Hook Here's the trailer: Love Lies Bleeding (2024) is a super intense rom-thriller (I'm coining that term) starring Kristen Stewart as a gym manager, and her character gets involved with a female bodybuilder who's trying to go pro. There's murder and sex and drugs, and the movie was made by A24, so that should be convincing enough for you. Who's in it: Kristen Stewart, Katy M. O'Brian, Ed Harris, Dave Franco, and Jena Malone Here's the trailer: Femme (2023) is centered around a drag performer who tries to get revenge on the closeted man who attacks them. The acting in it is fantastic, though the subject matter is pretty heavy, so consider this your warning because the film deals with some pretty traumatic subject matters. Who's in it: Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, George MacKay, and John McCrea Here's the trailer: Compulsion (1959) follows two hot, wealthy, and secretly queer college boys who commit a murder and think they're too smart to get away with it. It's loosely based on a real-life murder trial, and it's a lot of fun, so just trust me on this one. Who's in it: Orson Welles, Dean Stockwell, Bradford Dillman, Diane Varsi, and Richard Anderson Here's the trailer: Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood (2017) is a scandalous documentary that follows Scotty Bowers, the real-life man who basically served as a pimp for every secretly gay celeb from the '40–'80s. The stories in it are so freaking wild, and if you love Old Hollywood or celebrity gossip then you need to watch this. Who's in it: Scotty Bowers and Stephen Fry Here's the trailer: The Dreamers (2003) is about an American in 1960s Paris who becomes extremely close with a brother-sister duo. It's rated NC-17 for a reason, and you'll see why. Again, don't watch this one with your parents. Who's in it: Michael Pitt, Louis Garrel, and Eva Green Here's the trailer: The Pass (2016) stars Russell Tovey as a closeted pro soccer player who hooks up with his teammate, and we see how their relationship changes over the years. They're basically shirtless for most of the movie, so you're welcome. Who's in it: Russell Tovey, Arinze Kene, and Lisa McGrillis Here's the trailer: The Way He Looks (2014) is a Brazilian coming-of-age movie that follows a blind teenager and a school's new student as they try to navigate life, love, and independence. It'll genuinely have you smiling sooooo much. Who's in it: Fábio Audi, Ghilherme Lobo, and Tess Amorim Here's the trailer: Handsome Devil (2016) is a coming-of-age film that stars Nicholas Galitzine as a school's secretly gay rugby star. It's just super heartfelt, and Andrew Scott is also in it, so I promise you'll like it. Who's in it: Nicholas Galitzine, Fionn O'Shea, and Andrew Scott Here's the trailer: Another Country (1984) is a drama where Rupert Everett and Colin Firth play outsiders at a boarding school in 1930s England. It's beautiful, smart, and an instant classic. If you like Maurice or Call Me by Your Name then you'll love this one. Who's in it: Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, and Cary Elwes Here's the trailer: Crush (2022) is a really cute teen rom-com about a high-schooler who joins the track team to get closer to her crush. The best part is that all of the characters are already out and proud, and there's no trauma or anything involved, which is so rare in YA queer movies. Who's in it: Rowan Blanchard, Auli'i Cravalho, Tyler Alvarez, Isabella Ferreira, and Megan Mullally Here's the trailer: Tangerine (2015) is so chaotic in the best way possible. It follows two trans sex workers on Christmas Eve in Hollywood, and things get so overwhelming and hectic. The movie was actually shot entirely on an iPhone by Sean Baker, the four-time Oscar winner who made Anora and The Florida Project, in case you needed yet another reason to watch. Who's in it: Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, James Ransone, and Karren Karagulian Here's the trailer: Edge of the City (1957) is a gritty drama about the friendship between Sidney Poitier and John Cassavetes' characters. It's rough and tough and has a lotttt of queer subtext. Ruby Dee is also in this movie, and she's especially fantastic. Who's in it: Sidney Poitier, John Cassavetes, Ruby Dee, and Jack Warden Here's the trailer: Closet Monster (2015) is centered around a graduating senior who desperately wants to escape his small town and his family's complicated dynamics. It stars Connor Jessup, who I have SUCH a crush on, so back off!!! Also, Isabella Rossellini voices his hamster's imaginary thoughts, so, like, what the heck are you waiting for? Who's in it: Connor Jessup, Isabella Rossellini, Aliocha Schneider, and Aaron Abrams Here's the trailer: Taekwondo (2016) is a sleeper hit, and by that I mean not much actually happens in the movie (but the payoff is incredible!). Go into it blindly, and just know that all of Marco Berger's films are queer and spicy. Who's in it: Lucas Papa, Gabriel Epstein, Gaston Re, and Francisco Bertín Here's the trailer: Sauvage (2018) is a super raw movie that follows a twentysomething sex worker on the streets of Paris who really just wants to find love. Some scenes are especially intense and NSFW, so you've been warned. Who's in it: Félix Maritaud, Éric Bernard, Philippe Ohrel, and Nicolas Dibla Here's the trailer: Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) is a French period drama about forbidden love, and it's so hot that it'll melt your face off. I randomly think about the ending at least once a month. Like, please just watch it. Who's in it: Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel, and Luàna Bajrami Here's the trailer: Disclosure (2020) is a fascinating documentary that examines how Hollywood has depicted trans people in TV and movies throughout the years. Via interviews with experts and celebrities, it uncovers what sort of impact that portrayal has had on society and American culture. This one should be required viewing for everyone. Who's in it: Laverne Cox, Brian Michael Smith, Jen Richards, and Alexandra Billings Here's the trailer: I Am Jonas (2018) is a French drama that's centered around a queer man at two key points in his life: first as a teen and then in his 30s. There are some wild plot twists that might emotionally wreck you, so just get ready. Who's in it: Félix Maritaud, Nicolas Bauwens, Tommy-Lee Baïk, and Aure Atika Here's the trailer: The Haunting (1963) is a revolutionary horror movie that features one of the only lesbian characters of its time to be feminine and not predatory. The film is based on the book The Haunting of Hill House, which was ultimately turned into a hugely popular Netflix series, so if you like either of them then you should watch this too. Who's in it: Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, Richard Johnson, and Russ Tamblyn Here's the trailer: And finally, Fire Island (2022) is basically a gay, modern remake of Pride and Prejudice, and it'll star all your new favorite people. We all need more fun movies in our lives, so what more could you want? Who's in it: Joel Kim Booster, Bowen Yang, Matt Rogers, Margaret Cho, Conrad Ricamora, Zane Phillips, and James Scully Here's the trailer: Do you have any favorite LGBTQ+ movies that didn't make the list? Feel free to share them in the comments below! Looking for more LGBTQ+ content? Check out all of BuzzFeed's posts celebrating Pride 2025!
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Miami Herald
Review: ‘Dhaba on Devon Avenue' is a familiar immigrant story, set at a restaurant
It's 2017. A Tribune food story is causing distress at Dhaba Canteen, a Sindhi mainstay on Chicago's North Side. The family-owned restaurant was hoping the piece would be a celebratory profile of Neeraj, the restaurant's long-time owner and maybe even an appreciation of Sindhi culture in America. But it turned out to be a piece about the decline of Devon Avenue. Rita, his daughter, is furious. "The condescension," she says, adding an expletive. Devon Avenue, of course, is Chicago's celebrated artery of Desi culture, familiar to all of us who love the food of South Asia and offering a long-established collection of restaurants, shops and grocery stores, including the original Patel Brothers, now the world's largest chain serving the Indian diaspora. Since the mid-1960s, Devon Avenue, roughly between Ravenswood and California Avenues, hosted such historic Chicago eateries as Standard India, Annapurna, Viceroy of India and many more. Over the years, I've been to most all of them. But, as Madhuri Shekar's play "Dhaba on Devon Avenue" make clear, Devon Avenue has been changing; restaurants have been facing well-documented headwinds when it comes to food and labor costs and the formality of the restaurants in the 20th century has shifted to more casual profiles. And the initial dominance of a tight-knit group of Indian and Pakistani immigrants has shifted with the sands of time. Many of the children of the immigrants who moved to Chicago in the last decades of 20th century have seized opportunities far beyond the kitchens and dining rooms of Devon. "Dhaba" is premiering at Writers Theatre in Glencoe under the experienced direction of Chay Yew (TimeLine Theatre, awaiting its new home, is a producing partner). The play was long in gestation and it certainly feels like a pre-pandemic exploration of its theme. The core conflict is a classic, formulaic story of a fading old king, in this case Neeraj (Anish Jethmalani), clinging to the authenticity of his failing restaurant even as his daughter Rita (Tina Muñoz Pandya) wants to move with the times and experiment with fusion cuisine, all the more apt since the staffers of the restaurants no longer are all Sindi; the line cook, Luz (Isa Arciniegas) is Dominican. Rita's sister, Sindhu (Arya Daire), has moved out of town, her world is finance and management, not cooking magaz kheema. I've seen this plot many times. Even just a few minutes into the play, you intuit that Neeraj, who is in failing health, is not going to emerge triumphant here, as his daughters and even old pal Adil (Mueen Jahan) circle around his beloved restaurant and, symbolically, of broader aspects of their lives. Similarly, you suspect that Rita's rebellion will have to be tempered with a better understand of family, tradition and heritage. So you are never surprised. The playwright's palpable point of view, of course, most closely matches that of Rita. Frankly, I crave a play penned from the elder generation's perspective, but it's their well-educated kids, of course, who ended up going to MFA programs at Yale or Julliard and they inevitably write from what they know and feel. Their parents probably are more than fine with that, of course, but the result tends to be plays that are a bit too neat and that don't understand the pain of aging and the power of childhood memory in an immigrant's life; something that children born in the United States rarely fully understand. I'm also not convinced every immigrant or first generation American ends up being more restrictive than their children wish, but you'd never know that from the nonprofit American theater. (This issue is one of the reasons why August Wilson, who so understood late middle age, is so missed.) All that said, these themes would not be so common theatrically if they were not true. "Dhaba" has real richness in its details: I'm a sucker for local plays and this one comes with a palpable authenticity and some nicely toned performances (especially from the very live Muñoz Pandya and Jahan, who energizes the show every time he shows up). And, at times, Jethmalani is moving, too. If you are interested in Indian food, especially if that is your tradition, you'll likely respect the truth in some of these scenes. Yew's direction really kicks in during one powerful scene around the stove although, in general, I wish the set had been reordered to foreground the cooking more; it's such a powerful, sensual part of this writing and it deserves to be front and center. The piece was, I think, written before "The Bear" became a hit but that's one of its lessons for dramas set in restaurant kitchens. That and a slate of characters who rarely are or do what you might think. ____ Review: "Dhaba on Devon Avenue" (3 stars) When: Through July 27 Where: Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Tickets: $35-$95 at 847-242-6000 and Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
