The brainchild of a Pakistani activist and businessman, an Asian community kitchen in West London is serving over 500 hot meals to low-income families, the homeless, and refugees for free each day. 

Initiated by Ehsan Shahid three years back, the open kitchen in Hounslow catered to the homeless and vulnerable people who sat and chatted over free meals twice a day. That was till the Covid pandemic began.

The restaurant used to have a buffet spread of fresh meat, fish, vegetarian options, fruit, pudding, and various condiments.

Since the Covid induced lockdown in March last year, the eatery has seen the demand for free food multiply and now provides 500 plates of hot meals daily, Geo News reported. 

Shahid closed the sit-in option to comply with the government's guidelines on the coronavirus but turned his venture into a collection service, providing two hot meals along with water and snacks daily.

It has not been closed even for a day.

 “The demand has increased so much that homeless and needy families from across West London are coming to us for two meals a day, at lunch and dinner time.

We serve food to those in need with respect and dignity and we ensure that the food we serve is of top quality. The local council has given us 5-star ratings for the food we prepare and serve," said Shahid.

Now, the eatery has a database of 650 people who work for free there.

 “We have paid staff who prepare the food and maintain the kitchen and donations. Our volunteers support with food distribution, making our beneficiaries feel welcome, support with deliveries and raising awareness," he said.