The oldest and most famous food strip in the city, Burns Road, stands out when it comes to discovering the regional culinary tradition. The area conjures feelings of nostalgia and transports you to a bygone era owing to the abundance of historic eateries that have made a mark in Karachi’s food scene.
In this blog, Graana.com has come up with a complete account of the food street of Burns Road Karachi.
History of Burns Road Karachi
The history of Burns Road begins in the 19th century when a well-known Scottish physician named “James Burnes” served the Raj in Sindh. The street was renamed “Burns Road” or “Burnes Road” after the doctor. The roadway was renamed “Muhammad Bin Qasim Road ” following the partition, however, the locals preferred the former moniker.
According to Mr. Arif Hasan, a well-known city architect, this food strip was built in 1870 and served as a practice centre for the British army and artillery training. Later, the eateries and restaurants reshaped the landscape of the street by replacing the practice centres.
A road that once echoed the thuds of swords clashing and roars of gunfire now turned into a bustling street of vibrance and life – the history of Burns Road can fascinate anyone with even a slight fondness towards history.
Traditional foods, including Biryani and Karahi, Dhaga Kabab, Fry Kabab, Nihari, Haleem, and fried finger fish, are popular items throughout the eateries located on Burns Road. Kheer, Rabri, Ras Malai, Ras Gulay, Lassi, and Dahi Barha are some other famous sweets and savories offered here. Additionally, there are a few Halwa Puri stalls that offer this breakfast combination in the morning.
Since the time after the split, there have been renowned Lassi stores that also offer milk alongside dry fruits. During the mango season, they also provide mango ice cream and mango shakes, and in the winter, they Gajarela (a carrot pudding). They often open around 6 am or 7 am and are open until 2 am, or later on the weekends.
Best Time to Visit Burns Road Karachi
The best time to visit Burns Road in Karachi, Pakistan, is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is relatively cooler and more pleasant than hot and humid summers. The temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
Burns Road is famous for its street food and traditional Pakistani cuisine. It is home to numerous restaurants and food stalls that offer various delicious dishes. The area comes alive during the evening, with spices and flavors filling the air.
Visiting during the winter allows you to explore the vibrant food scene without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, it’s always a good idea to check the current weather conditions before planning your trip, as temperatures can vary slightly each year.
Some Famous Eateries Located at Burns Road Karachi
While passing by this road, the enticing aromas of Tikka Boti and Seekh Kabab are quite a common occurrence, luring in all those. All of the cuisines on this well-known food boulevard are delectable and reasonably priced, which is their selling point.
Following are some of the best Restaurants in Karachi located on Burns Road:
- Agha Sajji
- Waheed Kabab House
- Food Center Biryani
- Karachi Haleem Restaurant
- Azad Bun Kebab
- Mazedar Haleem
- Delhi Rabri House
- Pakistani Dil Bahar Dahi Baray
- Café Lazeez
- Karachi Haleem Restaurant
Agha Sajji
The area’s well-known Agha Sajji has a large menu with a variety of Desi cuisine. Along with your family, visit the fun place in Karachi, agha sajji, if you’re in the mood for some mouthwatering karahi, sajji, or BBQ. Your hunger for Desi food will definitely be satiated by the distinct flavour of their particular spices.
Among many meat selections on their menu are chicken karahi, chicken steamed chargha, BBQ, chicken green, and chicken white karahi. This restaurant’s speciality is sajji, which comes in various varieties like mutton sajji and chicken sajji.
Waheed Kabab House
Providing the taste of Delhi in the middle of Karachi, Waheed Kabab House has evolved from simply being a restaurant to becoming a part of its customer’s hearts. With a multitude of dishes available, its initial options feature Kebabs, Boti, and Kheeri.
Food Center Biryani
Food Centre serves the most delicious biryani, thus those wanting a taste of traditional biriyani must. You must taste their beef biryani to experience a perfect blend of flavours and seasonings in your mouth.
It is not surprising that Karachites eat biryani to celebrate holidays and other occasions, but there is no denying that Food Centre’s Biriyani triumphs over all others. The dining centre has a wide range of selections on its list, but chicken and beef biryani are its specialities.
Karachi Haleem Restaurant
Haleem Restaurant in Karachi is situated in Pak Mansion on Burns Road. They offer fast food, haleem, and many more classic dishes at affordable pricing. Karachi Haleem is stunning and exudes an incredibly traditional aesthetic.
Azad Bun Kebab
As the name suggests, the restaurant’s speciality is Bun Kebab, offering some of the best the city has had to offer since 1952. The flavorful kebabs are enhanced by the addition of chatni and sliced onions in a soft yet crunchy bread.
Mazedar Haleem
To enjoy the best Haleem in all of Karachi, try the Mazedar Haleem with naan. The cherry on top is the ideal harmony of lemon and fried onion with various spices and flavours.
Delhi Rabri House
For the most delicious dessert, all sugar lovers must go to Delhi rabri. Pista rabri, one of their specialties, offers just the right amount of sweetness. The best way to end your meal is with the tender pasta rabri, which melts in your mouth.
Pakistani Dil Bahar Dahi Baray
On Burns Road, the storied “Pakistani Dil Bahar Dahi Baray” has flourished since the 1950s, serving dishes with a distinctive flavour.
Lentil dumplings called “Dahi Baray” are fried in oil and served with yoghurt, tamarind sauce, various veggies, and spices on top. The same household has been running Dil Bahar since the 1950s, and it is well-known for its authentic, ageless original Dahi Baray with 12 seasonings.
Café Lazeez
Another family-owned eatery, Café Lazeez, opened in 1970 and quickly gained a following for its use of traditional seasonings and cooking methods, letting the food speak for itself.
They are also well known for the kata-kat, which is Offal meat that has been finely minced and fried on a sizable griddle. The dish got its name from the peculiar noise the flesh produces when it is cut with skewers.
Karachi Haleem Restaurant
Karachi Haleem Restaurant is located in the Pak Mansion on Burns Road. At relatively affordable costs, the restaurant offers Haleem as well as many other classic dishes.
The location is stunning and exudes a strikingly traditional and classic design. Your friends and family will love this location because it is quite airy, has cosy seating, and is tastefully designed.
These were some of the famous restaurants located on Burns Road Karachi food street. For more relevant information visit Graana blog.
FAQs
What is Burns Road famous for?
Burns Road in Karachi, Pakistan, is famous for its vibrant food scene and is considered one of the city’s oldest and most popular food streets. It is known for its wide variety of street food and traditional Pakistani cuisine.
Which is the most prominent food street in Karachi?
The most prominent food street in Karachi is Boat Basin. Located in Clifton, Boat Basin offers various restaurants and food stalls, serving various cuisines, including Pakistani, Chinese, Continental, and fast food.
What food is Karachi famous for?
Karachi is famous for its diverse culinary heritage and many delicious food options. Some of the favorite dishes include Biryani (a flavorful rice dish with meat or vegetables), Nihari (slow-cooked meat curry), Haleem (a thick stew made from lentils, heart, and wheat), Seekh Kabab (spiced minced meat skewers), and Karachi-style street food.
What is Karachi street food?
Karachi’s street food is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations. Some famous street food items in Karachi include Bun Kabab (a spicy patty served in a bun), Gol Gappay (crispy and hollow fried dough balls filled with tangy and spicy water), Dahi Baray (lentil fritters soaked in yogurt and topped with chutneys), Chicken Tikka (grilled marinated chicken), and Anda Shami (fried egg beaten with a spicy minced meat patty).
These culinary delights can be found in various food stalls, small eateries, and street vendors throughout the city, offering a rich and diverse street food experience to locals and visitors alike.
