If you are up for a flavorful ride full of mouthwatering traditional cuisines representing our desi culture. Then, yeah, you are at the right place. Although Islamabad is a metropolitan city, it is still full of our desi colors and cultural essence. Here, you’ll find the Traditional cuisines to satisfy your cravings. So brace yourselves and get ready for the irresistible experience.
Best Desi restaurants in Islamabad
Although Islamabad is full of fantastic restaurants, we must choose the best one to have a compelling experience. Here are some suggestions which will help you to narrow down your list. These best Desi Restaurants will amaze your taste buds, your eyes will be mesmerized by the beautiful ambience, and you’ll be overwhelmed by their excellent service. But remember that your preference could differ based on your likings and experience.
- Chatta’s
- Khoka Khola
- Des Pardes
- Muhammadi Nahari House
- Khyber Shinwari Restaurant
- Dilli Darwaza – The Nihari Shop
- Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House
- Habibi Restaurant
- Charsi Tikka
- Butt Karahi
Chatta’s
This restaurant has made a name for itself despite being tucked away in the corner of F-10/2 Islamabad’s unknown Tariq Market. Chattha’s is the place to go in town for the best desi cuisine, it is famous for halwa puri nashta, daal mahkni, and palak paneer. It effectively delivers outstanding Pakistani cuisine to the locals. Chattha’s menu begins with steaming hot Lahori nashtas made with the proper quantities of desi ghee. However, the restaurant does not stop with nashta; it delivers guaranteed flavor in all of its meals, whether nihari, thali, or karahi. Relax if you’re concerned about the bill because it will be reasonable. Their passion for cuisine is reflected in the food they provide.
- You’ll be mesmerized by its breathtaking ambience. It’s up to you whether you dine in or sit outdoors.
- They have the facility of wheelchairs, high chairs and toilets.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people. The restaurant is quite spacious and known for its capacity to accommodate large gatherings. But remember that large group servings at Monal Restaurant usually involve making reservations in advance.
- Well, visiting a restaurant during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush, will be good. Because the place is less crowded at these times, you’ll experience better service, shorter waiting times, and a pleasant, soothing environment. However, it could differ on weekends and special holidays.
Google Rating: 4.2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Khoka Khola
Khoka Khola, located in the basement of the Beverly Centre, opened its doors to food enthusiasts with the portrayal of khokha. The legendary Bollywood classical music of the 1960s and 1970s sets the mood when you enter this little café, combined with subdued lights and a pleasant ambience. This trendy variant of a khokha restores the old-school appeal of khokhas by delivering authentic Pakistani street food. Want to try something delicious from the menu? Order the makhni karahi, biryani, papri chaat, or their chicken cheese naan, which spills melted cheese. While the costs may be slightly higher than other restaurants, the overall experience is worth it. Don’t miss out on this establishment if you want to get a wonderful desi experience.
- You can either sit inside or outside.
- They have neat and clean restrooms.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people. It is an excellent choice for a casual dinner with friends and family or on a special occasion. The staff is pleasant and attentive, and they are always happy to assist you in selecting the ideal lunch.
- Visit this restaurant during off-peak hours, such as early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush. Because the place is less crowded at certain times, you’ll get better service, fewer wait times, and a more pleasant, relaxing atmosphere. It may, however, alter on weekends and special holidays.
Google Rating: 4.2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Des Pardes
The Des Pardes Restaurant in Islamabad’s Saidpur Village offers beautiful views of the Margalla Hills and delectable cuisine. Des Pardes encourages everyone looking to experience something new and unusual to come and enjoy their meal in a historical setting to go and enjoy their food. It is Islamabad’s most popular Mughlai and Namak Mandi dining experience. Tikka Boti and Reshmi Seekh Kababs are two of the restaurant’s notable dishes from its extensive menu. But the delights don’t stop there; they also serve popular namak mandi foods from Peshawar, such as Dumpukht and Namkeen lamb karahi. It also provides breathtaking views of a neighboring village. This is the costliest restaurant on this list, but any money spent here will be well spent.
- There are both indoor and outdoor seating options. They have enough space for you and your family. You can sit on the roof. Outdoor seating is ideal for anyone who wants to have a meal while taking in the scenery and weather.
- They have free wifi, high chairs, toilets and wheelchairs.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people. Their staff is pretty much experienced in accommodating large groups and families. They are attentive and patient with their customers. This is the right choice if you want a place to enjoy your meal with your kids and family.
- Well, visiting a restaurant during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush, will be good. Because the place is less crowded at these times, you’ll experience better service, shorter waiting times, and a pleasant, soothing environment. However, it could differ on weekends and special holidays. On average, it is usually crowded around 8 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, while on other days, it is a little busy around 9 p.m.
Google Rating: 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Muhammadi Nahari House
Muhammadi Nahari House is an excellent Pakistani restaurant that serves delicious nihari, karahi, handi, and the greatest lassi in town. The meal is definitely worth eating, and the pricing is fair, making it a terrific deal. Everyone there is kind, well-mannered, and cooperative, and the building is exquisite. While the costs are slightly more than in comparable restaurants, the quality of the meal makes it worthwhile. Their delicious nihari and nalli nihari are highly recommended.
- You can either sit inside or outside.
- They have neat and clean restrooms.
- It is favorable for families and an excellent choice for a cozy dinner in winter.
- It is usually crowded, so visiting during off-peak hours is best.
Google Rating: 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Khyber Shinwari Restaurant
You should give a try to Khyber Shinwari Restaurant in G-10/1 if you are a desi meat lover. Mutton is the star of the menu, and the trained shinwari chefs guarantee that every dish is cooked to perfection. Some of their famous dishes are the mutton karahi, mutton tikka, pulao, and the delicious Chapli kabab. The seating space is broad and comfy. Khyber Shinwari Restaurant is highly recommended for anyone wishing to experience some of the town’s best pulao, mutton, and kabab.
- It’s up to you whether you dine in or sit outdoors.
- They have the facility of wheelchairs and toilets.
- You can go there with your family to enjoy a desi feast.
- This restaurant is usually crowded around 9 p.m., so to have a better experience, avoid going there during this time.
Google Rating: 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dilli Darwaza
Dilli Darwaza is a restaurant in Islamabad’s F-8/1 neighborhood that pays homage to the Mughal era by providing hot and sizzling delicacies once made for the Mughlai Dastarkhawan.
Dilli Darwaza, a prominent restaurant in Islamabad, has walls covered with paintings of Mughal emperors and royal palaces and is constantly packed with customers returning to satiate their nihari hunger, which is delivered with a pleasant and homely atmosphere. They serve the most delectable nihari, which is hygienic, well-prepared, and based on a century-old recipe. Their nalli and plain nihari with naans are must-tries; the flavor will wow you. The atmosphere is lovely, and the service is outstanding.
- There is both indoor and outdoor seating available. They have enough space for you and your family. Outdoor seating is ideal for anyone who wants to have a meal while taking in the weather.
- They have clean toilets and free wifi service.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people.
- On Tuesday and Wednesday, it is busy from around 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. while on other days it’s happening around 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visiting during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush, will be good.
Google Rating: 4.2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House
Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House is a fantastic desi restaurant, particularly for foodies who enjoy authentic Pakistani cuisine. If we were to say that they have the highest quality cuisine with the delectable seekh kabab karahi, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration. It is strategically situated in the small market in F-8. This is a popular hangout for locals and students from all four universities located directly across the street. If you’re a true desi at heart, you probably wouldn’t mind dining on the floor, not that they don’t have chairs, but they do have a good set-up; nevertheless, if you’re not characterized as an authentic desi. Despite the simple ambience, the food quality, quantity, and taste are outstanding, and every dish on the menu is worth tasting. Overall, Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House is a must for anyone seeking a memorable eating experience that prioritizes exceptional food.
- Every customer will find the restaurant a wonderful option because it has indoor and outdoor seating places.
- They have clean restrooms and Wheelchair access for people who can’t walk or have difficulty walking.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people, and they are always happy to assist you.
- Well, visiting a restaurant during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush, will be good. Because the place is less crowded at these times, you’ll experience better service, shorter waiting times, and a pleasant, soothing environment. It is usually busy from around 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Google Rating: 4.2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Habibi Restaurant
Another excellent venue to have delicious Pakistani food at reasonable prices is Habibi Restaurant. Additionally, the restaurant has plenty of space for parking and hygienic restrooms. According to reviews, the restaurant has a lovely top-roof area and a wonderful, appealing vibe (sort of like Arabs). Massive, delicious BBQ plates and karahis are what make Habibi famous. The dish is delivered hot with the ideal quantity of seasonings and ingredients. Fortunately, the expense of all these large thaals of BBQ won’t be unreasonable. It would cost you about Rs. 500 for an average supper.
- You can sit inside or outside.
- They have wheelchairs, toilets and high chairs.
- It’s a terrific spot to enjoy with family and friends because of the management’s great organization.
- It would be best if you visited this restaurant during off-peak hours. Usually, it is crowded from 1 pm to around 4 pm, but on weekdays, it is busy in the evening around 9 pm.
Google Rating: 4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Charsi Tikka
The well-known BBQ restaurant from Peshawar has launched an outlet in the capital. The spot, located in the village of Saidpur, has a distinctly desi and Eastern feel. The town’s juiciest and most succulent BBQ foods are served here. Their Seekh Kabab, which is savory and juicy, is pretty famous, too. Visit this location if you wish to chill out while eating some soothing food. This restaurant provides a welcoming environment and is of excellent quality and affordability. Anyone looking for a fantastic eating experience can consider Charsi Tikka Restaurant.
- You can either sit inside or outside.
- They have wheelchairs, toilets and high chairs.
- The eatery welcomes families. The staff is friendly and welcoming.
- The best time to visit this restaurant is during off-peak hours, like early afternoons or later in the evening after the dinner rush, which will be good. Because the place is less crowded at these times, you’ll experience better service, shorter waiting times, and a pleasant, soothing environment. It is usually busy from around 9 pm to 10 pm.
Google Rating: 4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Butt Karahi
Anyone seeking a top-notch eating experience must go to Butt Karahi in F-10 Islamabad. The available karahi selections include those done in butter or olive oil, and the meat is always tasty and tender. The most well-liked and well-known dish is Desi Chicken Karahi. Additionally, mutton karahi, beef kabab, and karahi tikka are also excellent choices. The staff is helpful and quick. Overall, Butt Karahi is a fantastic restaurant in Islamabad serving delicious desi food.
- Both the indoor and outdoor dining areas include comfy seating.
- They have wheelchairs and clean toilets.
- It is favorable for families and large groups of people, and they are always happy to assist you.
- It would be best if you visited this restaurant during off-peak hours. Usually, it is crowded around 10 p.m.
Google Rating: 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Do they serve continental foods?
Although they do serve continental foods, but not much of them. If you are a fan of continental cuisine, then I won’t recommend these restaurants. Go there if you are a pure desi at heart, and your desi cravings never end. Endorse yourself in a colorful and vibrant desi experience with all desi restaurants.
Conclusion
Feel the desi vibe at the best desi restaurants in Islamabad. The journey starts with Khoka Khola’s Bollywood vibes, the hidden treasure of Chatta’s accompanying it for outstanding Pakistani delicacies. Enjoy nihari at Muhammadi Nahari House, Mughlai delicacies at Des Pardes, and a real BBQ at Khyber Shinwari. Stop by the historical allure of Dilli Darwaza. Enjoy the deliciousness of Bismillah Tikka or the reasonable feasts of Habibi. Try Charsi Tikka for the succulent barbecue or savor Butt Karahi for luscious treats. These places are the purest, tastiest foodie’s heaven for desies.