Islamabad

Welcome to Islamabad the Beautiful! If you are visiting from Lahore or Karachi, you might think Islamabad is just about expensive coffee and mountains. But if you dig deeper, this city has serious flavor.

From the crispy Shami Kabab of Blue Area to the elite steaks of F-7, I am going to show you where the real foodies go. Forget the “Tourist Traps”—here is where you should actually eat.

1. The Identity of Islamabad (Pulao)

You cannot land in Islamabad and not eat here. It is a crime.

Savour Foods (Blue Area)

This is not just a restaurant; it is an emotion. It is efficient, cheap, and consistent.

The Insider Order: “Chicken Pulao – Double Shami.”
The Hack: The rice is good, but the magic is in the sides. Ask for “Extra Raita and Salad” (it’s usually free refills).
How to Eat: Don’t eat it dry. Drench the rice in the Raita, crush the Shami Kabab into it, and mix it all up. That first bite is pure nostalgia.
Pro Tip: If you have space left, their “Zarda” (Sweet Rice) is surprisingly good.

2. The Desi & Afghani Giants

Because Islamabad is close to KPK, the Afghani food here is 10x better than Lahore.

Kabul Restaurant (F-7 Markaz)

This is the OG spot. It has been serving diplomats and locals for decades.

The Insider Order: “Kabuli Pulao” and “Mutton Tikka.”
The Hack: The Pulao comes with sweet carrots and raisins (Meva). If you don’t like sweet rice, ask for “Sada Pulao” (Plain).
The Naan: Their Naan is the size of a car tire. One Naan is enough for 3 people. Do not over-order!

Cheema & Chattha (F-11 Markaz)

If you are missing the spicy Lahori touch in Islamabad, come here.

The Specialty: “Desi Ghee Chicken Karahi.”
The Insider Order: For breakfast, their “Churi” (Crumbled Roti with Ghee and Sugar) is elite.
The Hack: Ask for “Lassi with Malai.” They serve it in steel glasses, and it is heavy enough to put you in a coma.

3. The “Burger” Stereotype (But Actually Good)

Okay, fine. Islamabadis love burgers. But these two are worth the hype.

BLT (Beef Lettuce Tomato) – Gol Market

This is not your average fast food. This is a premium experience.

The Insider Order: The “Jalapeno Beef Burger.”
The Taste: The patty is thick, juicy, and pink in the middle (if you ask for Medium).
The Hack: Their “Parmesan Fries” are better than the burger. They are loaded with cheese sauce and herbs. Do not skip them.

Daily Deli Co. (Blue Area/F-10)

For a quick, messy, smashing burger.

The Order: “Molten Lava Burger.”
The Experience: It is a cheese shower. They pour hot cheese over the burger at your table. It is perfect for your Instagram story.

4. Ambiance & Views (The Margalla Vibe)

You come to Islamabad for the mountains. You need to eat with a view.

Monal / La Montana (Pir Sohawa)

Note: While Monal has faced legal closure orders recently, if it (or its neighbors like La Montana/Highland) is open, you go for the VIEW, not just the food.

The Trap: Do not order steaks or Chinese here. It’s average.
The Safe Order: Stick to the “BBQ Platter” and “Cheese Naan.”
The Hack: Go at 5:00 PM. You get to see the day view, the sunset, and the night lights of Islamabad all in one sitting.

Asian Wok (Beverly Centre)

If you want luxury vibes right in the city center (Blue Area).

The Insider Order: “Prawns Tempura” and “Mint Margarita.”
The Hack: Their complimentary “Fish Crackers” and salsa dip are addictive. Don’t fill up on them!

5. Cafe Culture & Dessert

Islamabadis spend 50% of their life in cafes.

Burning Brownie (Beverly Centre)

This is the most famous dessert spot in the capital.

The Insider Order: “Cheesecake” (New York Style) or the classic “Skillet Brownie.”
The Vibe: It’s where the “Cool Crowd” hangs out. Great coffee, dim lights, and amazing chocolate scent.

Loafology (Blue Area)

For the elite breakfast.

The Order: “Brioche French Toast.”
Why: It is fluffy, not too sweet, and served with real maple syrup. It feels expensive, but it tastes expensive too.