Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is home to a diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From street food to high-end restaurants, the city has something to offer for everyone. But with so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best-hidden gems for dining in Islamabad. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the city’s lesser-known dining spots that are worth checking out.
- Chaaye Khana
Chaaye Khana is a popular tea house that serves a wide variety of teas, from traditional chai to herbal infusions. This quaint little café is in the heart of Islamabad and offers a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day. Along with tea, the café also serves a range of snacks and light bites such as samosas, parathas, and sandwiches.
- The Monal
The Monal is a restaurant located atop the Margalla Hills, offering a stunning view of Islamabad. The restaurant serves Pakistani and continental cuisine and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The restaurant’s spacious interior is decorated with traditional artwork and has a warm and welcoming ambiance. The Monal is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
- Tuscany Courtyard
Tuscany Courtyard is a hidden gem located in F-7 Markaz. The restaurant’s décor is inspired by Tuscany, with an open-air courtyard and warm lighting, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant serves Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and risotto. The restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
- Savour Foods
Savour Foods is a popular chain of fast-food restaurants in Islamabad that serves traditional Pakistani food, including biryani, pulao, and karahi. The restaurant is known for its delicious and affordable food and has a loyal following of locals who swear by its taste. The restaurant’s décor is simple, with plastic chairs and tables, but the food is what makes it stand out.
- Khoka Khola
Khoka Khola is a small café located in G-8 Markaz, known for its delicious coffee and cozy atmosphere. The café is decorated with vintage posters and has a warm and inviting ambiance. The café serves a range of coffee drinks, from traditional espresso to flavored lattes, along with a selection of snacks and light bites.
- Street Food
No visit to Islamabad is complete without trying its street food. The city has a wide variety of street food options, from Samosas to Gol Gappay. Some of the best street food spots in Islamabad include the F-10 Markaz food street, which has a range of food stalls selling everything from chicken tikka to shawarma. The Blue Area food street is also a popular spot, with a range of street vendors selling kebabs, parathas, and chaat.
- Andaaz Restaurant
Andaaz Restaurant is a hidden gem located in G-9 Markaz, known for its delicious and authentic Pakistani cuisine. The restaurant’s décor is simple, with plastic chairs and tables, but the food is what makes it stand out. The restaurant serves traditional Pakistani dishes such as haleem, nihari, and biryani, and has a loyal following of locals who swear by its taste.
- Chai Chowk
Chai Chowk is a quirky tea house located in F-11 Markaz, known for its colorful décor and delicious tea. The tea house serves a range of teas, from traditional chai to flavored infusions, along with a selection of snacks and light bites.
