Top Restaurants in Pakistan (Updated 2023)

A good restaurant with a pleasing ambiance and lip-smacking food is enough to turn a plain old day into something exciting and refreshing. Luckily, Pakistan is blessed with some of the top-tier restaurants in the region. In this blog, we bring you a concise yet informative list of top restaurants in Pakistan that you should visit with your friends and family members. The list has been compiled considering customer reviews, ambiance, and food variety.

To learn more about these famous restaurants in Pakistan, keep on reading.

List of Best Local Restaurants in Pakistan

Andaaz Restaurant

Andaaz restaurant is one of the most visited restaurants in Lahore. Its unique location is the primary element that separates the restaurant from other traditional restaurants in Lahore. The restaurant is at the prime location of the walled city, right next to one of the oldest historical buildings in Lahore, the Badshahi Masjid. 

The structure of the restaurant speaks of history and class. It is based on a privately owned house that was constructed in 1926. There is also a museum in the vicinity, showcasing a vast collection of local arts and crafts of the subcontinent. 

The restaurant is well furnished, comprising three floors, and gives an aura of old Lahore. The restaurant comes with a capacity of around 170 guests. Another branch of the restaurant is also located in Saidpur Village, Islamabad. To enjoy traditional cuisine with class, you should visit this restaurant today. 

The Monal

The following famous restaurant in Pakistan that we would love to talk about is The Monal. It is one of the most visited places in Islamabad, owing to its breathtaking views and delicious food. The restaurant sits at the top of the majestic Margalla Hills and gives a bird’s eye view of the beautiful capital of Pakistan. 

The restaurant is situated at about 1173 meters above sea level, making it one of the most famous fast-food restaurants in Islamabad. The place is known among the masses for its traditional and international cuisine.

If you want to enjoy live music, a yummy buffet, or an extensive ala carte menu, this place is for you. Apart from the Islamabad branch, Monal is also operating in other cities, including Rawalpindi and Lahore.

Kolachi Restaurant

One of the best restaurants in Karachi, loved by the masses, is Kolachi Restaurant, located on the bank of the Arabian Sea. It is a one-of-a-kind restaurant, providing excellent ambiance, lip-smacking dishes, and fantastic customer service to all its customers.

If you want to experience the true colors of Karachi, especially its coastal life, you should visit this beauty very soon. The cool sea breeze, amazingly lit place, and spot-on music are enough to turn your regular day into something extraordinary.

Salt’n Pepper Village

The first Salt’n Pepper Restaurant was established in 1983 and is considered by many as the pioneer restaurant in Pakistan. The restaurant added another extension to its brand and introduced The Salt’n Pepper Village in Lahore.

This unique restaurant revamped the regular hoteling industry of the city and introduced the customers to something one of a kind. The restaurant is based on a traditional Pakistani village concept and offers various classic and modern sub-continental dishes. The restaurant also offers a live buffet where everything is cooked from scratch right before your eyes. The Village Lahore has a seating capacity of over 350 guests.

Bundu Khan Restaurant

The next name on our list is none other than Bundu Khan. If you are looking for traditional Pakistani cuisine, including a wide variety of BBQ dishes, Bundu Khan is food heaven. 

It is considered one of the oldest restaurants in Lahore, known among the masses for its consistent taste and affordability. Some dishes you should try here include chicken seekh kabab, chicken Kasturi, and Behari kabab.

The Rice Bowl

All the Chinese and Thai cuisine lovers…The rice bowl is the perfect place for you guys to satisfy your Chinese food cravings. The restaurant has multiple locations in Lahore city where you can enjoy piping hot Chinese bowls. 

Their main entrees consist of a vast selection of vegetable, chicken, fish, and beef dishes. Also, they have a variety of noodles and rice dishes to complement your gravies.

Okra

Okra is one of the most famous contemporary restaurants in the metropolitan city of Karachi. It opened its doors to customers in 1999 and has been winning hearts ever since. 

Two things that make Okra different from the other restaurants are its fine dining experience and contemporary ambience. The place is specifically famous for its Mediterranean cuisine. Some popular dishes served at the restaurant include grilled calamari, carpaccio of beef with herbs, and different kinds of pasta.

Lal Qila Restaurant Lahore

If you want to experience the Mughal era right in the central city of Lahore, you should head towards the Lal Qila Restaurant. Similar to Lal Qila Restaurant Hyderabad, the restaurant is an accurate depiction of Mughal art, culture, and cuisine. The Mughal architecture, with a touch of modern art and design, has combined to add more color to your dining experience. 

The restaurant offers a vast selection of authentic Mughlai, Tandori, Live Bar-B-Que & Traditional Pakistani cuisine. The dining area comprises a Mughal hall with a Jharoka (lattice) in its outer view. Its inner position gives you an accurate marvelous depiction of Mughlai Artistry.

Decorated with authentic items of the Mughlai era, it takes you back to the 17th century. The restaurant also has a Bara Dari to sit and relax with your friends and family members.

Butt Karahi

Butt Karahi Lahore is a well-known restaurant located in the heart of Lahore, Pakistan. It is famous for its authentic and delicious karahi dishes, especially the signature Butt Karahi made with goat meat or chicken. The restaurant has a traditional ambiance with wooden chairs and tables, giving customers a comfortable dining experience.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring customers have a pleasant time. Along with karahi dishes, the restaurant offers other Pakistani delicacies like biryani, kebabs, and naan bread. The reasonable prices make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Savour Foods

Savour Foods is a renowned Pakistani fast-food chain with flagship outlets in Rawalpindi and Lahore. It is famous for its delicious and affordable chicken pulao kabab and other Pakistani fast-food items. The restaurant has a humble interior, comfortable seating arrangements, and a cozy ambiance.

The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free customer experience. The food is prepared using fresh and high-quality ingredients, and the taste is consistent across all their outlets. The restaurant also offers home delivery services, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their food in the comfort of their homes.

Savour Foods has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, and it continues to maintain its reputation for quality food and excellent service. So, these are some of Pakistan’s most famous and most visited restaurants. We hope you liked the blog and found the place of your choice. If you want to taste some authentic Pakistani food, you must definitely visit these places. 

If you have questions about the top restaurants in Pakistan, please feel free to contact us by leaving a message in the comment section below. Happy eating!

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FAQs Related to Best Restaurants in Pakistan

What are some of the best restaurants in Pakistan?

There are many great restaurants in Pakistan offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences. Some of the most popular ones include Butt Karahi Lahore, Salt’n Pepper, The Deli, and Kolachi Restaurant.

What kind of food can I expect in Pakistani restaurants?

Pakistani cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, with a mix of spices and herbs. Some popular dishes include biryani, karahi, kebabs, nihari, and haleem. Many vegetarian options are also available, such as daal (lentils) and sabzi (vegetable) dishes.

Are Pakistani restaurants affordable?

Yes, Pakistani restaurants are generally affordable, with prices varying depending on the type of restaurant and location. Street food is typically the most budget-friendly option, while fine-dining restaurants can be more expensive.

Is it necessary to make a reservation at Pakistani restaurants?

It is recommended to make a reservation at high-end or popular restaurants, especially during peak hours. However, smaller or casual eateries usually do not require reservations.

What are some popular street food items in Pakistan?

Some of the most famous street food items in Pakistan include chaat, samosas, pakoras, dahi bhallas, and gol gappas. These can be found in various street food stalls and vendors nationwide.

What is the dress code for Pakistani restaurants?

The dress code for Pakistani restaurants can vary depending on the type of restaurant. There is usually no specific dress code for casual eateries and street food vendors. However, it is recommended to dress in smart casual or formal attire for upscale or fine-dining restaurants.

Are there any international cuisine restaurants in Pakistan?

Yes, there are many restaurants in Pakistan that offer international cuisine such as Chinese, Italian, Turkish, Thai, and Japanese. These are usually found in major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Pakistani restaurants?

Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan options available in Pakistani restaurants, especially in the larger cities. Many restaurants offer daal (lentils), sabzi (vegetable) dishes, and other vegetarian options.

Are Pakistani restaurants safe for tourists?

Yes, Pakistani restaurants are generally safe for tourists. However, it is recommended to take necessary precautions such as avoiding tap water and street food from unhygienic vendors. It is also important to research and choose reputable restaurants.

How many restaurants are there in Pakistan total?

It is difficult to provide an exact number of restaurants in Pakistan as the restaurant industry in the country is constantly evolving, and new restaurants are being established every day.

However, according to a report published in 2020, there were over 30,000 restaurants in Pakistan, ranging from small street vendors to large fine-dining establishments. This number is expected to increase in the coming years as the demand for dining out continues to grow in the country.

Which city is best for food in Pakistan?

Pakistan is a country with diverse culinary traditions, and many cities in the country offer a unique and flavorful dining experience. However, some of the cities that are considered to be the best for food in Pakistan are:

Lahore: Lahore is known as the food capital of Pakistan, and for good reason. It is famous for its rich and flavorful dishes such as nihari, paya, haleem, and karahi. The city is also home to some of the country’s oldest and most famous restaurants, such as Butt Karahi and Waris Nihari.

Karachi: Karachi is another city that is famous for its food culture. It offers various culinary options, including seafood, street food, and international cuisine. Some popular dishes in Karachi include biryani, bun kebabs, and nihari.

Islamabad: Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is also an excellent place for food lovers. It offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, with various restaurants serving Pakistani, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian food. Some of the famous restaurants in Islamabad include Monal Restaurant and Khoka Khola.