Pakistan’s parody café Sattar Buksh has won its years-long legal dispute with global coffee chain Starbucks, securing the right to retain its signature moustached-man logo and witty name.
Founded in Karachi in 2013 by Rizwan Ahmad and Adnan Yousuf, the café drew attention for its satirical nod to Starbucks. Instead of the iconic mermaid, Sattar Buksh used a moustached man emblem, while its name cleverly fused a common Pakistani name “Sattar” with “buksh,” meaning servant.
Starbucks initially issued a legal notice, claiming infringement. However, Sattar Buksh argued its brand was parody rather than piracy. After minor branding tweaks, the court ruled in favor of the local café, allowing it to continue under its unique identity.
Managing Director Armaghan Shahid said Starbucks tried multiple tactics to shut them down but failed. “Our inspiration is clear, but the details are distinct. We’re not just about coffee — we serve burgers, sandwiches, desserts, even shisha. Think of us as Starbucks with masala,” he quipped.
The café’s triumph has become a cultural moment in Pakistan, celebrated online as a victory of local creativity over corporate power. Social media users have dubbed it the “greatest desi dupe in history
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