Meet the Team

  • Faraz Sardharia - CEO/Executive Chef

Faraz Sardharia is a visionary entrepreneur, chef, and community advocate based in Chicago, Illinois. With a profound passion for food and a dedication to fostering meaningful connections, Faraz has made a lasting impact on the culinary world and his local community.

As the founder and leader of Elevation Hospitality Group, Faraz has revolutionized dining experiences by seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. His celebrated ventures, including Tandoor Char House and Rickshaw Pakistani & Indian Street Eats, honor his South Asian heritage while delivering creative, flavorful dishes. These establishments have become cherished mainstays in Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene, with Rickshaw’s Zabiha Halal offerings setting new standards for authenticity and quality.

Faraz’s commitment to service extends beyond the restaurant industry. As a board member of Chi-Care, an organization focused on providing warm meals to the homeless, he has been instrumental in supporting those in need. From organizing meal routes sponsored by local businesses to partnering with the City of Chicago Mayor’s Office on a program that delivered 800,000 meals to unhoused individuals and new arrivals, Faraz champions the belief that everyone deserves nourishment and dignity.

His leadership and advocacy are equally evident in the community. Faraz serves on the boards of the Illinois Restaurant Association, Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce, West Town Chamber of Commerce, and Wrightwood Neighbors Association, where he works to strengthen neighborhood connections and empower local businesses. He has also contributed as a Beat Facilitator and Crime Prevention Chair, and he currently serves on the board of the Chicago Police Foundation while acting as Business Liaison for the 19th District Police DAC Committee.

Renowned as a changemaker and connector in Chicago, Faraz exemplifies a unique blend of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and leadership. Whether crafting exceptional dining experiences or driving meaningful community initiatives, his work consistently reflects his commitment to improving lives.

When Faraz isn’t managing his restaurants or coordinating community programs, he is busy pursuing new ways to bring people together. From creating a Chicago street food brand for festivals outside the city to innovating meal services for shelters, his focus remains on delivering joy, flavor, and connection.

Faraz Sardharia’s journey is one of passion, purpose, and progress—a testament to his dedication to uplifting his community and celebrating the rich flavors of life.

  • Sophia Senna - Operations & Administrative Manager
  • Winnie Stone - Art Director
  • Nick Dogali - CFO
  • Agustin Pacheco - Chef De Cuisine
  • Hope Daly - Social Media Manager