LA Parada delivers new dining experience to Molapo Crossing
Lucy Kgweetsi | Wednesday August 27, 2025 12:06
The launch of LA Parada drew an energetic crowd of influencers and media personnel reflecting the growing appetite in the capital for new spaces that combine food with a lively social atmosphere. The arrival of the restaurant marks another step in the capital’s evolving hospitality scene, where the demand for versatile dining venues continues to rise.
With its bright interiors, bold décor, and open layout, it aims to appeal to a broad range of guests from families during the day to professionals and groups of friends in the evening.
Food and drink form the centre of the experience. Guests at the launch were introduced to a diverse menu with international influences, including small sharing plates, hearty main meals, and an extensive drinks list.
The idea, according to management, is to encourage not just dining but shared experiences.
At the opening, LA Parada Director Luke explained the concept behind the name.
“LA Parada is a Spanish name meaning ‘The Stop.’ It simply means that if you come here once, you’ll be forced to come back again and again.
“We wanted to create a place that becomes part of people’s routines whether it’s for a meal, a meeting, or just a good time with friends,” he said.
The evening also featured live music and entertainment, underscoring the restaurant’s emphasis on creating a holistic atmosphere rather than focusing solely on food.
For many attendees, the launch suggested that LA Parada intends to stand out by being both a restaurant and a social hub.
One of the guests welcomed the addition of the new outlet to Molapo Crossing.
“We don’t just want to eat, we want an experience. This is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re part of something happening in the city. I think it will be popular with a lot of different people,” she added.
The choice of Molapo Crossing appears strategic, as the shopping complex has established itself as one of Gaborone’s busiest lifestyle centres.
By situating LA Parada in such a location, management hopes to attract steady traffic while also offering something distinct from other outlets in the area.
Observers of the hospitality sector note that restaurants in Gaborone are increasingly focusing on lifestyle offerings to remain competitive.
Consumers are no longer satisfied with meals alone, they are looking for ambiance, service, and memorable moments. LA Parada’s opening reflects this trend and signals an effort to meet those evolving expectations.
Going forward, much will depend on whether the restaurant delivers consistently on service and atmosphere.
For now, however, Molapo Crossing has gained a lively new tenant that has already made a strong impression with its opening night.