11 Best desi food restaurants in Islamabad
Islamabad, the scenic capital of Pakistan, is not only famous for its clean roads and serene views, it is also home to some of the best desi food restaurants in Islamabad. From traditional karahi and biryani to fusion-style BBQ platters, the city offers something for every desi food lover.
Whether you are a local foodie or a tourist looking for authentic Pakistani flavors, Islamabads food scene is buzzing with options. This guide covers the top-rated spots where you can enjoy everything from spicy handi dishes to cozy rooftop meals, all at a reasonable price.
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Why Islamabad is a must-visit for desi food
The rise of desi restaurants in Islamabad has redefined the city’s culinary landscape. Whether you are craving a flavorful handi, karahi, or a BBQ platter, Islamabad offers everything from rooftop dining to cozy spots with a cozy atmosphere perfect for families, foodies, and tourists alike.
The capitals food offerings bring together the special food of Pakistan, showcasing a variety of delectable treats, perfect for both everyday cravings and special gatheringsIslamabad, the scenic capital of Pakistan, is not only famous for its clean roads and serene.
Top best desi food restaurants in Islamabad
Tandoori Restaurant
A long-standing favorite in the Islamabad desi food scene, Tandoori is famous for its rich flavors, generous portions, and traditional ambiance. Their G-8 branch, with both indoor and open-air rooftop seating, offers a welcoming environment ideal for both families and casual meetups.
The restaurant is especially known for its authentic Pakistani cuisine, including creamy handis, sizzling BBQ, and aromatic biryani. Tandoori perfectly blends continental and desi flavors, making it a must-visit spot for foodies in search of a value-for-money experience.
What to try:
- Chicken Makhni Handi
- Mutton Karahi
- Malai Boti & Seekh Kebabs
- Kulcha Naan & Raita
- Gulab Jamun for dessert
Highlights:
- Cozy and spacious rooftop with a desi-chic vibe
- Great for group dinners, especially during winters
- Prompt service and consistent taste
👉 For menu, reservations, or deals: Tandoori
Location: G-8 Markaz, F-10, PWD, DHA Islamabad
Khoka Khola
For a traditional trip into the heart of old-school Pakistani street food with a modern twist. Khoka Khola delivers a fun, energetic vibe with retro beats, colorful desi pop art, and a menu packed with all your favorite Pakistani comfort foods.
Though compact in size, this place packs big flavor and delivers it with flair. Perfect for a casual hangout, solo lunch, or a cozy dinner with friends.
What to try:
- Desi Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Karachi-style Beef Nihari
- Street Bun Kabab
- Desi Chicken Karahi
- Chicken Biryani
- Chili Garlic Fries
- Finish it with their Lassi or classic Mint Lemonade
Highlights:
- Funky cafe-style ambiance with retro desi music
- perfect for small groups
- Instagrammable interior full of vibrant energy
- Consistent taste and fast service
👉 Menu & online orders: Khoka Khola Official Site
Location: Beverly Centre, Blue Area, Islamabad
Aanch Restaurant
Aanch is one of Islamabad’s most iconic rooftop restaurants, offering a panoramic view of the Margalla Hills paired with a premium desi buffet experience. Whether you are heading out for a family gathering, corporate dinner, or a romantic hi-tea, Aanch delivers both in food and ambiance.
They specialize in Pakistani and continental cuisine, with a strong focus on live BBQ, karahi, and hot tandoori naan, all part of their popular buffet offerings.
What to try:
- Live BBQ Station
- Desi Karahi & Handi i
- Buffet Favourites
- Fresh Salads & Raita Bar
- Desserts Section
Hi-Tea Buffet Includes:
Finger sandwiches, pizza slices, samosas, spring rolls, mini burgers, pakoras, and more all served in a beautifully decorated indoor + outdoor setting.
Highlights:
- Spectacular rooftop seating with Margalla views
- One of the top hi-tea buffet in Islamabad options
- Wide variety with desi, Thai, and continental dishes
- Great for birthdays, office dinners, and winter BBQ nights
- Affordable buffet with high-quality service
👉 View full menu: Aanch Official Menu
Location: Aanch Heights, Saidpur Road, Islamabad
Janaan food
Inspired by rich Pukhtoon and tribal culinary traditions, Janaan restaurant offers a unique and hearty take on authentic desi cuisine. The restaurants name means “beloved” in Pashto and that is exactly what it has become for Islamabad foodies looking for flavor-packed, soulful meals.
Janaan stands out for its rustic presentation, cultural interior, and commitment to bold, slow-cooked flavors. It is the kind of place where you can taste tradition in every bite.
What to try:
- Namkeen Tikka
- Chapli Kebab
- Pulao
- Chicken Karahi
- Daal Fry & Tandoori Roti
Highlights:
- Cozy indoor space with Pukhtoon cultural decor
- Great value for money for meat lovers
- Ideal for lunch, casual dinners or takeout
- Loved by locals for authentic, no-fuss desi food
- Quick service and strong customer reviews
👉 See dishes on Instagram: @janaan_isb
Location: F-10 & I-8 Markaz, Islamabad
For reservations: 051-8777895
1969 Restaurant
Stepping into a 1969 Restaurant is like entering a time capsule. Inspired by Pakistan golden era, the restaurant offers a classic setting with vintage decor, traditional music, and classic Pakistani cuisine. It is a true celebration of culture and comfort food in one of Islamabad greenest and most peaceful locations.
With open-air seating and old-school truck art vibes, it is a perfect place for both tourists and locals seeking an experience beyond just a meal.
What to try:
- Dum Pukht Biryani
- Chicken Handi
- Haleem
- Roghani Naan with Nihari
- Gajar ka Halwa & Shahi Tukray are local favorites
Highlights:
- Themed interior based on 1960s Pakistan
- Family-friendly with indoor and garden seating
- Peaceful ambiance near scenic Shakarparian hills
- Hosts cultural nights, live music, and events
- Offers both continental and traditional desi food
👉 Check their vibe on Instagram: @cafe1969_official
Location: Garden Avenue, Shakarparian, Islamabad
Reservation: 0345 0031969
Adaab Restaurant
Adaab is all about celebrating the elegance and richness of Mughlai and traditional Pakistani cuisine. With its royal-themed interior, candle-lit ambiance, and carefully curated menu, it offers a fine dining desi experience rarely found in the heart of Islamabad.
Perfect for both casual outings and special occasions, Adaab is known for its deep flavors, slow-cooked gravies, and buttery naan straight from the tandoor.
What to try:
- Chicken Qorma
- Beef Nihari
- Palak Paneer
- BBQ Mix Platter
- Tandoori Roti & Garlic Naan
- Zarda and Gajar ka Halwa complete the experience
Highlights:
- Mughlai-style seating with warm lighting and desi music
- It is a great spot for both family gatherings and business meetups.
- Offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Emphasis on authentic, slow-cooked traditional dishes
- Great service and beautifully plated meals
👉 Explore their menu & ambiance: @adaab.pk
Location: F-6 Markaz, Islamabad
Taus Premium
Taus Premium offers a sophisticated blend of Pakistani, continental, and fusion cuisine, served in a sleek, upscale setting. From its chic interior to its flavor-rich menu, Taus is ideal for those seeking a more elevated desi dining experience without losing authenticity.
This is not your average desi restaurant, it is where food presentation meets premium taste. Whether you are out for a celebration, business dinner, or looking to enjoy a luxurious hi-tea, Taus hits the mark.
What to try:
- Badami Chicken
- Desi Chicken Handi
- Beef Chilli Dry
- Taus Special Platter
- Paratha Rolls & Burgers
- Gulab Jamun and Chocolate Lava Cake are top picks
Hi-Tea Buffet Includes:
Mini sandwiches, pasta, finger foods, fried items, salads, and desserts served fresh daily.
Highlights:
- Premium decor with warm lighting and modern design
- Ideal for both desi and continental food lovers
- Known for quality service and beautiful plating
- Great for hi-tea, group gatherings, and date nights
👉 Explore full menu and bookings: taus.pk
Location: I 8 Markaz, Islamabad
The Carnivore
The Carnivore is a meat lovers dream, where rich desi BBQ flavors meet the elegance of a modern steakhouse. From sizzling grills to slow-cooked handi, this restaurant specializes in meaty indulgence with a modern touch.
Whether you are in the mood for a premium beef steak or a spicy chicken karahi, The Carnivore delivers both flavor and atmosphere. Warm wooden decor and soft, ambient lighting create the perfect setting for a memorable meal.
What to try:
- Grilled Lamb Chops
- Chicken Ginger Karahi
- Steakhouse Platter
- Beef Seekh Kebab
- Mutton Roghan Josh
- Caramel Crunch and Chocolate Mousse Cake
Highlights:
- One of the rare spots in Islamabad where juicy steaks meet bold desi flavors in perfect harmony.
- Spacious indoor dining with cozy, rustic vibes
- Offers BBQ, steaks, burgers, pastas, and traditional Pakistani dishes
- Great choice for group dinners, meat platters & special occasions
- Fast service and large portion sizes
👉 See full menu: thecarnivore.com.pk
Location: F-6 Markaz, Islamabad
The Chatthas
If you are searching for authentic homemade-style desi food that is comforting, flavorful, and fairly priced. The Chatthas is a hidden gem, known for its simple presentation and bold taste, this spot is loved by locals for staying true to traditional Pakistani recipes.
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, but the food tells a different story: rich gravies, perfectly cooked meat, and freshly baked naans that keep customers coming back.
What to try:
- Daal Fry & Garlic Naan
- Desi Chicken Karahi
- Shami Kabab
- Chicken Achari Handi
- Traditional Lassi
- Halwa Puri, Chanay, and Paratha combo
Highlights:
- Pure desi food taste with no unnecessary fusion
- Great for lunch breaks, comfort dinners, and desi breakfasts
- Affordable prices and large portions
- Quick service and a loyal customer base
- Consistent flavors loved by Islamabad foodies
👉 See daily updates: @chatthastheauthentic
Locations:
- Bahria Town Phase 4
- Beverly Centre, F-6
- Tariq Market, F-10/2
Dilli Darwaza
Looking to experience the rich flavors of old Delhi without leaving Islamabad? Dilli Darwaza brings the flavors of Mughal-era street food right to your plate with slow-cooked gravies, aromatic biryani, and recipes inspired by the walled city of Delhi.
From rich nihari to melt-in-the-mouth kababs, this place is a must-visit for those who appreciate heritage cuisine served in a modern, elegant environment.
What to try :
- Delhi Nihari (Beef)
- Chicken Qorma
- Mutton Biryani
- Seekh Kabab & Shami Kabab
- Daal Mash & Roghani Naan
- Shahi Tukray, Kheer, and Gulab Jamun
Highlights:
- A tribute to authentic Delhi-style Mughlai cuisine
- Clean and elegant dining space
- Perfect for both individual foodies and family dinners
- Carefully curated recipes with deep historical roots
- Excellent service and beautiful plating
👉 Explore their full menu: dillidarwaza.com/our-menu
Location: F-8/1, Allahwali Market, Islamabad
La Terrazza
Sitting atop one of the most iconic malls in Islamabad, La Terrazza offers breathtaking rooftop views of the Margalla Hills and a diverse menu that combines desi classics, continental favorites, and Italian-inspired comfort food. It is the kind of place where you go for the ambiance but return for the taste.
With both à la carte options and a well-loved hi-tea buffet, La Terrazza is perfect for casual hangouts, romantic dinners, and family brunches.
What to try:
- Butter Chicken with Naan
- Grilled Chicken Steak
- Chicken Malai Boti
- Creamy Alfredo Pasta
- Hi-Tea Buffet (Available Daily) Includes sandwiches, spring rolls, pakoras, pizza, chicken wings, salads, and assorted desserts
- Gajar ka Halwa, Brownies, and Kheer
Highlights:
- One of Islamabad most scenic hi-tea buffet with stunning view
- Offers a balance between continental and traditional desi dishes
- Elegant décor with indoor & outdoor rooftop seating
- Ideal for birthday celebrations, date nights, or evening tea
- Consistent quality and great service
👉 View full menu: laterrazza.cafe/menu
Location: Rooftop, The Centaurus Mall, Islamabad
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the special dish of Islamabad?
While Islamabad offers a wide variety of cuisines, chicken karahi, BBQ platters, and creamy handis are considered the cities signature dishes. Many top-rated restaurants like Tandoori and The Chatthas serve these dishes in traditional styles that locals and tourists both love.
What are the special places of Islamabad?
Some of the most iconic places in Islamabad include Daman-e-Koh, Faisal Mosque, and Lok Virsa Museum. For food lovers, areas like F-7 Markaz, F-6, and Centaurus Mall rooftop are popular for their vibrant food scenes and cozy dining options.
What is the special food of Pakistan?
Pakistan special foods include biryani, karahi, haleem, nihari, and samosas all rich in spices and traditional flavors. These dishes represent the cultural diversity of the country and are commonly found at most desi restaurants, especially in Islamabad.
Which city in Pakistan has the best food?
Lahore is often called the food capital of Pakistan due to its street food culture and historic eateries. However, Islamabad is gaining popularity for offering a refined mix of traditional and modern desi dining, especially with rooftop and family-friendly restaurants.
What is the most popular restaurant name?
Some of the most popular restaurants in Islamabad include Tandoori, Monal, and The Carnivore. These places are known not only for their delicious desi food but also for their ambiance, customer service, and consistent quality.