The All Pakistan Restaurant Association organized the first ever APRA Awards, which were based on customer choices and were created to celebrate Karachi’s innovative food scene.

But after the awards were announced this week, Karachi’s foodie groups are criticizing the award list, questioning the authenticity of the awards, especially the fact that the best restaurant of the year was awarded to McDonalds.

The restaurant of the year award nominees included the uber popular SteakbyCFU, Karachi’s favourite Kebabjees and the once great Koel. Not only did McDonalds not fit in the list as it was the only fast food joint, but as the winner, it raised many eyebrows.

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Ginsoy won the food legend award which also caused much grief since Waheed, Karachi Broast and Hanifia were also on the list

Many people called the list a joke, others questioned why Karachi’s legendary restaurants weren’t on the list and other came up with award lists of their own.

Critics of the awards questioned how restaurants who were nominated for awards and won them could be gold partners for the event

Ali Safina hosted the award event and the jury consisted of Chef Saadat, Dr. Sadia Safdar, Chef Abdul Hadi and Sumera Hussain.