How Pakistan fell in love with sushi
Aug 11, 2025•34 min
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Summary
This episode explores how sushi, initially scorned, became a culinary phenomenon in Pakistan, beginning with the opening of Fujiyama, Karachi's first Japanese restaurant, by the entrepreneurial Avari family. It delves into the challenges of introducing raw fish in a country of traditional palates and how chefs adapted the cuisine to local tastes, making it widely accessible. The discussion also highlights the contrasting preference for imported ingredients in high-end dining versus local produce, and how new establishments like Izakaya focus on exclusivity and experience, catering to a globalized consumer base.Episode description
Once upon a time, Pakistanis scorned raw fish. Now sushi is everywhere from Ramadan meals to wedding buffets – and it all started with one man and a dream By Sanam Maher. Read by Amina Zia The Oath documentary: to be a Palestinian doctor in Israel’s healthcare system. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod
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