Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Islamabad, Pakistan
1. Chicken Tikka at Monal
Grilled chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, served with naan. Enjoy the stunning view of Islamabad from Monal's rooftop restaurant.
- Iconic View: Offers a breathtaking panorama of the twin cities, Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
- Delicious Chicken Tikka: Cooked to perfection, this dish is a must-try for every visitor.
- Rooftop Dining: Dine under the stars and appreciate the tranquility of the surrounding mountains.
2. Biryani at Peshawar Chowk
Tender meat and aromatic rice layered together in a flavourful biryani. Experience the authentic North-West Frontier Province flavours.
- Authentic Flavors: The traditional cooking methods bring out the true essence of Peshawar's cuisine.
- Lively Atmosphere: Peshawar Chowk is always bustling with locals and visitors alike.
- Affordable Prices: A delicious meal at Peshawar Chowk won't break the bank.
3. Haleem at Karachi Darbar
A hearty wheat and meat porridge, Haleem is a popular dish during religious festivals. Karachi Darbar serves one of the best versions.
- Authentic Recipe: The secret family recipe has been passed down for generations.
- Religious Significance: Haleem is traditionally served during the month of Muharram, but it's available all year round at Karachi Darbar.
- Generous Portions: Karachi Darbar's Haleem servings are generous, perfect for a satisfying meal.
4. Seekh Kebab at Rubicon
Minced meat mixed with spices, skewered and grilled to perfection. Try the Seekh Kebab at Rubicon for a modern twist.
- Modern Spin: Rubicon offers an innovative take on traditional Pakistani dishes.
- Fine Dining Experience: Enjoy your Seekh Kebab in a sophisticated setting with impeccable service.
- Vegetarian Option: Rubicon also offers vegetarian seekh kebabs for those who prefer a meat-free diet.
5. Sajji at Des Pardes
Whole spiced goat slow-cooked over hot coals. Try this traditional Pashtun dish at Des Pardes.
- Cooking Method: The unique cooking method imparts a smoky flavor to the goat.
- Rich Flavor: Des Pardes offers an exquisite Sajji experience with succulent, tender meat.
- Authentic Pashtun Cuisine: Sajji is a dish that showcases the culinary heritage of the Pashtun tribe.
6. Tikka Pizza at Kohinoor
A fusion of Italian and Pakistani cuisine, the Tikka Pizza blends succulent chicken tikka with a thin pizza crust.
- Fusion Dish: Combines two popular culinary styles into one delicious meal.
- Unique Flavor Combo: The combination of tikka spices with pizza crust creates a unique flavor profile.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Kohinoor is a great place to take the whole family for a meal.
7. Nihari at New Nihari Corner
Slow-cooked beef shanks served with fragrant rice and garnished with coriander. Try this traditional breakfast dish at New Nihari Corner.
- Authentic Recipe: The traditional recipe is closely guarded by the family who runs New Nihari Corner.
- Early Morning Delight: Nihari is a popular breakfast dish, so visit New Nihari Corner early in the morning.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference for a truly enjoyable experience.
8. Chicken Karahi at Pindi Bhatti
Tender chicken pieces stir-fried with tomatoes, green peppers, and aromatic spices. Pindi Bhatti serves one of the best versions.
- Flavorful Dishes: Pindi Bhatti offers a variety of flavorful dishes, but their chicken karahi is a standout.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: All ingredients are sourced locally, ensuring freshness and quality.
- Generous Servings: Pindi Bhatti's chicken karahi servings are generous, perfect for sharing or taking leftovers home.
9. Samosa at Mughal Samosa
A crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas. Enjoy this classic snack from Mughal Samosa.
- Crispy Pastry: The golden, flaky pastry is hard to resist.
- Traditional Recipe: Mughal Samosa uses a traditional recipe that has been perfected over time.
- Affordable Snack: A delicious samosa won't break the bank, making it an ideal choice for a quick bite.
10. Rogan Josh at Indian Curry House
Lamb slow-cooked in a rich tomato and spice sauce. Experience the tantalizing flavors of Rogan Josh at Indian Curry House.
- Slow-Cooked Flavors: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and blend beautifully.
- Wide Variety of Dishes: Indian Curry House offers a diverse menu, but their Rogan Josh is not to be missed.
- Authentic Ingredients: The ingredients used in Indian Curry House's dishes are imported directly from India for authenticity.
11. Paratha at Parathe Wali Gali
Flaky, buttery flatbread stuffed with a variety of fillings such as potatoes, cheese, and paneer. Try this popular street food in the famous Parathe Wali Gali.
- Variety of Fillings: Parathe Wali Gali offers a wide range of fillings to suit every taste.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the hustle and bustle of a traditional Pakistani street food market.
- Affordable Prices: Parathas are an affordable, filling meal option.
12. Paya at Shahi Paya House
Slow-cooked goat trotters served with fragrant rice. Try this traditional dish at Shahi Paya House.
- Authentic Recipe: The traditional recipe has been passed down for generations.
- Early Morning Delight: Paya is a popular breakfast dish, so visit Shahi Paya House early in the morning.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference for a truly enjoyable experience.
13. Kabuli Pulao at Kabuli Pulao House
Long-grain rice mixed with raisins, carrots, and aromatic spices. Enjoy this sweet and savory dish at Kabuli Pulao House.
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a unique taste experience.
- Traditional Recipe: Kabuli Pulao House uses a traditional recipe that has been perfected over time.
- Generous Servings: Kabuli Pulao House's servings are generous, perfect for sharing or taking leftovers home.
14. Chicken Balochi at Food Street
Grilled chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked over hot coals. Try this flavorful dish at Food Street.
- Cooking Method: The unique cooking method imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Wide Variety of Dishes: Food Street offers a diverse menu, but their Chicken Balochi is a standout.
- Affordable Prices: A delicious meal at Food Street won't break the bank.
15. Gola Buzra at Gola Buzra Corner
Ice lollies made from flavored milk and topped with crushed ice. Cool off with this popular street snack from Gola Buzra Corner.
- Cooling Treat: Gola Buzra is the perfect refreshment on a hot day in Islamabad.
- Variety of Flavors: Gola Buzra Corner offers a wide range of flavors to choose from.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the hustle and bustle of a traditional Pakistani street food market.