
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
1. Biryani at Roshan Kabab House
Delicious Hyderabadi Biryani made with aromatic basmati rice and succulent meat, served in a traditional earthen pot. A must-try for rice lovers.
- Authenticity: Serves authentic Hyderabadi Biryani that's hard to find elsewhere.
- Taste: Offers a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Experience: Dining in a traditional Pakistani restaurant, steeped in rich local culture and hospitality.
2. Seekh Kebabs at Peshawari Restaurant
Juicy and tender Seekh Kebabs, marinated in special spices and grilled to perfection. A great option for meat lovers.
- Quality of Meat: Uses only premium quality ground meat.
- Flavor Profile: Infused with a unique blend of spices and herbs for an unforgettable taste.
- Cultural Significance: A traditional Pakistani dish, offering a glimpse into the country's rich culinary heritage.
3. Sajji at Tikka Corner
Whole spice-marinated lamb, slow-cooked over charcoal on a traditional clay oven. A flavorful and filling dish for carnivores.
- Slow Cooking: Cooks the lamb slowly, ensuring it's tender and juicy.
- Authenticity: Prepares Sajji using traditional cooking methods.
- Presentation: Serves the dish on a bed of aromatic rice, making it a visual feast as well.
4. Chicken Chapli Kebab at Chowk Jameel
Flat and succulent chicken patties seasoned with aromatic spices. A popular street food in Rawalpindi.
- Spice Level: Can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Cultural Significance: A traditional Pakistani dish, reflecting the region's culinary heritage.
- Portion Size: Generous portion sizes, satisfying even the heartiest of appetites.
5. Nihari at Bhoja Halal Meat Restaurant
Slow-cooked beef shanks and bone marrow stew in a flavorful spiced gravy. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- Authenticity: Prepares Nihari using traditional recipes and cooking techniques.
- Slow Cooking: Cooks the beef slowly, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
- Taste: Offers a rich and satisfying taste that'll warm you up on a chilly morning.
6. Haleem at Karachi Darbar
A thick wheat-based porridge slow-cooked with meat and lentils in a flavorful broth. A hearty dish for any time of the day.
- Slow Cooking: Cooks Haleem slowly, ensuring it's tender and flavorful.
- Cultural Significance: A traditional Pakistani dish, popular during the Islamic month of Muharram.
- Taste: Offers a unique blend of flavors that'll leave you wanting more.
7. Parathas at Parathe Wali Gali
Flaky and buttery flatbreads cooked to order. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
- Freshness: Cooks the Parathas fresh to order.
- Variety: Offers a wide variety of fillings, from savory to sweet.
- Taste: Offers a delicious and satisfying taste, perfect for any meal.
8. Chicken Tikka at Tikka Inn
Tender chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection. A must-try for anyone visiting Rawalpindi.
- Quality of Meat: Uses only premium quality chicken.
- Spice Level: Can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Presentation: Serves the dish beautifully, making it an Instagram-worthy moment.
9. Khurchan at Khao Galli
A traditional Punjabi breakfast made from lentils and spices. A hearty and filling dish to start your day.
- Taste: Offers a unique blend of flavors, perfect for early morning cravings.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with proteins and fibers, making it a healthy choice for breakfast.
- Cultural Significance: A traditional Punjabi dish, reflecting the region's culinary heritage.
10. Paye at Tikka Inn
Slow-cooked beef feet in a flavorful broth. A unique and delicious dish for adventurous eaters.
- Authenticity: Prepares Paye using traditional recipes and cooking techniques.
- Slow Cooking: Cooks the beef feet slowly, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
- Taste: Offers an unusual yet delightful taste experience.
11. Gol Gappay at Food Street
Crispy semolina shells filled with a mixture of spiced water, tamarind chutney, chickpeas, and potato. A refreshing and tasty snack.
- Variety: Offers different varieties of Gol Gappay, each with its unique flavor.
- Refreshing: Provides a refreshing burst of flavors.
- Portion Size: Generous portion sizes, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
12. Shahi Tukray at Sindh Restaurant
Deep-fried bread slices soaked in a rich milk and sugar syrup, garnished with dry fruits. A sweet dish to end your meal.
- Sweetness: Offers the perfect balance of sweetness.
- Texture: Combines the crispy exterior with a soft and spongy interior.
- Garnish: Garnished with dry fruits, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
13. Chicken Karahi at Karachi Darbar
Tender chicken pieces cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy. A flavorful and filling dish for any meal.
- Spice Level: Can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Taste: Offers a unique and delicious taste experience.
- Portion Size: Generous portion sizes, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
14. Gosht Kababs at Peshawari Restaurant
Tender ground mutton kababs marinated in special spices and grilled to perfection. A must-try for meat lovers.
- Quality of Meat: Uses only premium quality mutton.
- Flavor Profile: Infused with a unique blend of spices and herbs for an unforgettable taste.
- Cultural Significance: A traditional Pakistani dish, offering a glimpse into the country's rich culinary heritage.
15. Fish Kebabs at Fish Harbour
Tender and juicy fish kebabs marinated in special spices and grilled to perfection. A great option for seafood lovers.
- Quality of Seafood: Uses only premium quality, fresh fish.
- Flavor Profile: Infused with a unique blend of spices and herbs for an unforgettable taste.
- Experience: Dining by the sea, enjoying the fresh breeze and scenic views.