Born in Pakistan, Maryam Ghaznavi grew up surrounded by the rich aromas and vibrant flavors of Pakistani cuisine. With her mother, grandmother, and sister all skilled cooks, Maryam became the “chief taste tester,” developing a deep love for traditional dishes like Biryanis, Karahis, Saags, and Kababs. Through countless hours spent in the kitchen, she honed her own culinary skills, eventually becoming a chef herself.
Maryam and her husband, Raheel Gauba, relocated from Canada to the Lowcountry, bringing their passion for Pakistani food with them. They began with a successful pop-up at The Daily in 2019, captivating the local community with their authentic dishes. This led to the opening of Ma’am Saab at Workshop in 2020, further solidifying their presence in the Charleston culinary scene.
Building on their success, the couple is now expanding their reach with Malika, a fast-casual Pakistani street food concept located in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, and plans for a new downtown restaurant on Meeting Street. This expansion reflects the growing demand for Pakistani food and the couple’s commitment to sharing their cultural heritage.
Street food is an integral part of Pakistani culture, offering a vibrant tapestry of flavors and experiences. Maryam’s cherished memories of visiting streetside cafes (dhabas) with loved ones, indulging in chaats and biryanis, inspired the creation of Malika. The restaurant aims to recreate the authentic sights, sounds, and tastes of Pakistan, providing a truly immersive culinary experience. Malika strives to create memorable moments for its patrons, offering a taste of Pakistan’s rich culinary traditions. From savory curries to flavorful grilled meats and aromatic rice dishes, Malika’s menu showcases the diversity of Pakistani street food.
