A Cool Gesture That’s Warming Hearts in Sharjah
As temperatures soar across the UAE, one Sharjah-based restaurant is taking a heartwarming approach to help the community cool down—by offering free buttermilk to everyone, no strings attached. The initiative, which kicked off this May, is already making waves online for its generous spirit and perfect timing, with residents praising the move as a much-needed act of kindness during the blistering summer.
Quenching Thirst, One Cup at a Time
Located in the heart of Sharjah’s bustling Al Rolla district, Salkara Restaurant Sharjah has turned its storefront into a station of hydration and hospitality. From early morning until late evening, passersby can stop and help themselves to a cold glass of chaas—popularly known as buttermilk—served fresh daily.
This humble yet thoughtful drink not only helps people beat the heat but also reflects the region’s deeply rooted values of sharing and compassion, especially during tough weather conditions.
“We know how harsh the summer can get,” says the restaurant’s manager, Mr. Faisal. “Whether it’s a delivery worker, a pedestrian, or anyone passing by—we just want them to feel welcome, refreshed, and valued.”
Why Buttermilk? A Healthy Summer Choice
Unlike sugary sodas or artificially flavored juices, buttermilk is a traditional, nutrient-rich drink made by churning yogurt with water and spices like cumin or curry leaves. It’s hydrating, low in calories, and perfect for replenishing electrolytes in hot weather.
The restaurant ensures the buttermilk is freshly prepared in-house, using clean filtered water and high-quality dairy. The result is not only delicious but also deeply hydrating, especially appreciated by those spending long hours outdoors.
“People have told us it reminds them of home,” Mr. Faisal adds. “It’s more than just a drink. It’s comfort.”
Word Spreads Across the Community
The free buttermilk service has become an instant hit, drawing attention from residents and even social media influencers who’ve praised the thoughtful gesture. Videos of customers stopping for a sip, smiling in relief, and thanking the staff have been circulating online—boosting the restaurant’s goodwill and brand recognition far beyond its usual customer base.
Many have taken to Instagram and TikTok to showcase this “small but powerful” act, encouraging others to visit and cool off. The initiative is not only refreshing bodies but also uplifting spirits.
And it’s not just the customers who are benefiting. The restaurant’s staff have expressed joy in being part of something meaningful. “It feels good to give,” shares one waiter. “Every time we refill the container, we know someone else is going to be helped.”
Sharjah’s Growing Culture of Kindness
This move fits into a broader pattern seen in Sharjah and across the UAE, where businesses and residents alike are embracing community-driven initiatives. From Iftar fridges during Ramadan to free water stations and heat relief shelters, there’s a clear trend of using kindness as a way to connect with others.
In fact, local authorities and community platforms such as Sharjah24 have consistently promoted social responsibility and volunteerism, encouraging everyone—from large corporations to small cafes—to participate in bettering public life.
“Salkara’s buttermilk stand is a great example of how even a small idea can make a big impact,” says a Sharjah-based community volunteer. “It’s accessible, simple, and deeply appreciated by people from all walks of life.”
Inspiring a Ripple Effect
Already, a few other eateries in Sharjah and nearby areas are considering similar initiatives. There’s talk of offering cold lemon water, wet towels, or shaded seating for laborers and pedestrians. As temperatures creep past 40°C, such efforts are not only helpful—they’re essential.
Customers are now urging more restaurants to adopt similar models, using hashtags like #CoolWithKindness and #FreeChaasSharjah to spread the message.
Even families have gotten involved, with children stopping by to distribute cups of buttermilk alongside the restaurant staff on weekends. It’s a beautiful sight—one that brings the community together in an organic, joyful way.
Sustaining the Initiative
Despite the growing number of people visiting daily, the restaurant shows no signs of slowing down. They’ve committed to running the buttermilk station throughout the summer months, with options to scale up if needed.
“We’ve set up extra containers and increased our dairy supply,” Mr. Faisal shares. “People count on this now, and we want to make sure no one goes away disappointed.”
The business has even noticed a positive uptick in its reputation and customer loyalty—not because of marketing strategies, but because of their community-first mindset.
Final Sip: Kindness Never Goes Out of Season
In a time when rising temperatures can drain both energy and morale, it’s comforting to see something as simple as a cup of buttermilk serve as a symbol of generosity, tradition, and hope.
As Salkara Restaurant continues to pour cold chaas into paper cups each day, they’re also pouring positivity into the community—one sip at a time.
And in doing so, they’re reminding us that in the heat of summer, sometimes the coolest thing we can do is care.
Read More: Step Inside the Minecraft Movie Restaurant at McDonald’s UAE
