Our Story
The Daata Story
From One Takeaway to a Family Legacy
It began with a phone call.
In 1990, Mohammed Saleem stood in Faisalabad, Pakistan, holding a letter that would change everything — his visa for Ireland had been approved. With little English but a deep love for cooking, he set off to start a new chapter, bringing with him a suitcase full of dreams, his mother’s recipes, and the belief that food could connect cultures.
Soon after arriving, Mohammed became head chef at Shalimar — the very first Pakistani restaurant in Ireland. It was here that he laid the foundation for what would one day become Daata.
In 1994, he married Shamim Akhtar, whose home cooking and strength of spirit would shape the soul of the Daata kitchen. Together, they opened their first takeaway in Bray in 1999
A True Family Run Restaurant.
Over the years, more family arrived. Rahat, Shamim’s sister, followed in 2000. Waseem, Mohammed’s nephew, joined in 2004. Each brought their own flavour, their own story. The business grew not because of investors, but because of kin. Cooking, cleaning, and welcoming every guest like they were sitting at our family table.
Their children Kiran, Fahad, and Aliha grew up surrounded by the business, guests, and stories. When Mohammed and Shamim retired in 2020, it was only natural that Fahad and Aliha would take the reins.
Bray and Beyond.
Since then, the family has continued to build on Saleem’s dream. With a deep sense of heritage and bold new vision, they’ve opened new restaurants in Greystones, Glasthule, Blackrock, and most recently in Sandymount, 2025 led by Aliha and Fahad’s next generation of energy and love.
Each Daata restaurant carries its own charm but the heart remains the same, a warm welcome, nostalgic interiors, and unforgettable flavours inspired by the streets of Pakistan.
Daata is more than a restaurant. It’s a family story, told through food and we’re so proud to now share it with you.
Welcome to our table.
