Rawalpindi
Pakistan
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Rawalpindi
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsContinental Dishes
Skydine Revolving Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Continental DishesThe restaurant generally offers a range of continental cuisine dishes.
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BBQ Platter
Skydine Revolving Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View BBQ PlatterA selection of grilled meats, including chicken tikka, seekh kebab, and other BBQ specialties.
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Mutton Karahi
Skydine Revolving Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Mutton KarahiSimilar to Chicken Karahi but made with mutton (goat meat). It's rich and flavorful.
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Chicken Karahi
Skydine Revolving Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Chicken KarahiA popular Pakistani dish made with chicken, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices cooked in a karahi (wok).
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Burgers
Rooftop Lounge / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View BurgersSeveral types of burgers are sold here.
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Wide variety of pasta styles available.
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BBQ platter
Rooftop Lounge / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View BBQ platterAssorted BBQ items typically include chicken tikka, seekh kebab, and other grilled meats.
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Chicken Karahi
Rooftop Lounge / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Chicken KarahiA traditional Pakistani and North Indian dish. Cooked in a karahi (wok), the chicken is prepared with tomatoes, ginger, …
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Chicken Manchurian
Rooftop Lounge / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Chicken ManchurianA popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a savory and slightly sweet Manchurian sauce.
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Handi Dishes
Saffron Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Handi DishesSelection of handi dishes are also very popular like Chicken Handi or Mutton Handi. Cooked and served in a Handi (clay p…
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BBQ (Various)
Saffron Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View BBQ (Various)Saffron Restaurant is known for its BBQ offerings, including Chicken Tikka, Seekh Kabab, and other grilled meats.
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Mutton Karahi
Saffron Restaurant / Rawalpindi (Pakistan)
View Mutton KarahiSimilar to Chicken Karahi, but made with mutton. A rich and flavorful dish.
Average Rating
Signature Dishes
Rawalpindi's cuisine is characterized by rich, savory flavors, often incorporating generous use of spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. Meat dishes, especially those featuring mutton and chicken, are highly prevalent, along with a variety of lentil and vegetable preparations. The city is known for its hearty, comforting food, perfect for its climate.
Sajji
Whole lamb or chicken, marinated in spices and slow-roasted over coals. A popular dish originating from Balochistan, readily available and enjoyed in Rawalpindi for its smoky, tender flavor.
Chapli Kabab
Large, flattened minced meat patties, seasoned with a blend of spices, including pomegranate seeds and coriander. Grilled or pan-fried, they are juicy and flavorful, often served with naan or roti.
Chicken Karahi
Chicken cooked in a karahi (wok-like pan) with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, green chilies, and a blend of spices. It is usually cooked in its own fat and served hot with naan.
Dal Makhani
A rich and creamy lentil dish made with black lentils and kidney beans, slow-cooked overnight with butter and cream. A staple dish in many Pakistani restaurants, and a popular choice in Rawalpindi.
Paye
A slow-cooked stew made from the trotters (feet) of goat, sheep, or cow. Rich in collagen and flavor, this dish is often eaten for breakfast or as a hearty meal, and is traditionally believed to have health benefits.
Nihari
A slow-cooked stew traditionally made with beef shank, flavored with a variety of spices. It's a rich and flavorful dish often eaten for breakfast and is slowly gaining popularity in Rawalpindi.
Halwa Puri
A breakfast combination of sweet halwa (semolina pudding), deep-fried bread (puri), and sometimes chickpeas (chole). A very popular traditional breakfast enjoyed in Rawalpindi.
Local Tips
When exploring the culinary scene of Rawalpindi, it's helpful to keep a few things in mind. From navigating the bustling street food scene to understanding local customs, these tips will enhance your food experience.
Explore Street Food
Rawalpindi is a paradise for street food lovers. Be sure to try local specialties like chapli kababs, samosas, and pakoras from reputable vendors. Always ensure the food is freshly prepared.
Bargaining at Markets
If you visit local markets to purchase spices or ingredients, bargaining is generally acceptable. Be polite and respectful, and you may be able to get a better price.
Spicy Food
Pakistani cuisine is known for its spiciness. If you're sensitive to spicy food, ask for your dish to be made 'mild' or request a side of yogurt or raita to cool down your palate.
Cleanliness
When eating at street food stalls, pay attention to the hygiene and cleanliness of the establishment. Choose vendors who appear to be taking proper precautions.
Tipping
Tipping is not always mandatory, but it's customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants if you're satisfied with the service.
About Rawalpindi
Food History
Rawalpindi's cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its historical position as a crossroads of cultures and trade routes. Influences from the Mughal Empire, Persian traditions, and the culinary styles of surrounding regions, particularly Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have all contributed to its unique culinary identity. The British colonial era also left its mark, introducing new ingredients and cooking techniques.
Food Culture
Food in Rawalpindi is deeply intertwined with social customs and hospitality. Sharing meals is a common way to build relationships and celebrate special occasions. Restaurants and street food stalls are often bustling with activity, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Hospitality
Offering food to guests is considered a sign of respect and generosity in Rawalpindi. It's common for hosts to prepare elaborate meals and ensure that their guests are well-fed.
Family Meals
Sharing meals with family is an important tradition. Families often gather together to eat dinner, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of community.
Festivals and Celebrations
Food plays a central role in festivals and celebrations, such as Eid and weddings. Special dishes are prepared to mark these occasions, symbolizing joy and abundance.
Street Food Culture
Street food is an integral part of Rawalpindi's culinary scene. Vendors offer a wide variety of affordable and delicious snacks and meals, providing a convenient and accessible way to experience the local flavors.