Islamabad & Rawalpindi Restaurants

  1. Afghan Bakery

    This unpretentious little bakery, right by the Kabul restaurant, sells a small selection of cookies, sweet pies (eg apricot) and fresh bread rolls.

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  2. Al-Maghreb

    For a well-deserved splurge consider this atmospheric and beautifully decorated restaurant, which specialises in quality Arabian, Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine.

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  3. American Steak House

    A meat-lovers haven, with plenty of 'Wild West Steaks' on offer: filet mignon, T-Bone, green pepper and Hawaiian, just to name a few. There are also nonsteak options such as burgers, tandoori fish, grilled prawn skewers and a small selection of pastas, pizzas, soups and salads. The interior is chilled-out, with some comfy booth-style seating, and the mocktails/smoothies are guaranteed to quench the most savage summer thirst. Beware, however, of flat whites masquerading as cappuccinos.

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  4. Anwar Café

    Opposite a mosque, this bustling basic street eatery has no English menu but the staff will help out. The chicken biryani, with chapatis and raita, is recommended.

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  5. Data Kabana

    This earthy street eatery is the place to pig out on inexpensive freshly cooked kebabs. It's off Haider Rd, just opposite the Ciros Cinema.

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  6. Dragon City

    This welcoming Chinese restaurant has lots of commendable Cantonese and Sichuan dishes, with favourites including the belly-warming soups, Mongolian chicken and garlic prawns. The vegetarian selection is limited.

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  7. Haleem Ghar

    This buzzing and unpretentious Pakistani restaurant cooks up food that's pleasing to both the palate and pocket. Possibilities include chicken tikka, biryani or, for the more adventurous, brain masala. Solo women and families can avail themselves of the restaurant's family section.

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  8. Hot Spot

    A top spot to satiate sugar cravings, this trendy little nook has mouthwatering sweet treats that include homemade ice cream, gorgeous cakes, crepes and waffles. It also does fab smoothies and coffee.

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  9. Jahangir Balti Murg

    This no-frills street eatery has alfresco dining and is known for its tasty meat-based dishes such as chicken tikka.

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  10. Jason's Steakhouse

    If you've been hankering for steak, top-quality imported Australian and US beef graces Jason's tables. Diners are rarely disappointed.

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  12. Kabul Restaurant

    Carnivores can tuck into generous servings of succulent barbecued meat at this well-regarded Afghani restaurant. Salad, rice, yogurt and traditional-style bread beautifully accompany the tasty tikkas and kebabs.

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  13. KC Grill

    Hobnob with Islamabad's upper crust at this stylish restaurant, which offers pleasant indoor and outdoor seating. Menu items include chicken filled with blue cheese, mushroom lasagne, tempura prawns, salmon-and-cheese quiche, chicken teriyaki, fat steaks and an assortment of chargrilled burgers. There's also a selection of Pakistani dishes.

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  14. Kim Fah

    Whether it's chicken with lime or a simple egg fried rice, this cosy restaurant delights diners with delicious Chinese creations.

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  15. Larosh

    This large, popular restaurant does reliable Pakistani standards such as chicken jalfrezi and mutton pilau. Finish off with the cool mango ice cream.

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  16. Omar Khayam

    Recommendations at this very popular Iranian restaurant (bookings advisable) include the chelo kebab kobideh (BBQ mutton kebab) and the Kohresht-e-bademjan (lamb and eggplant).

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  17. Pappasalli's Italian Restaurant

    With an attractive interior, delicious food and courteous service, Pappasalli's is deservedly popular. There are plenty of tempting pasta dishes, including a hearty spaghetti bolognaise, as well as ample other choices such as minestrone and steak Tuscany. For dessert there's a divine tiramisu as well as some glorious ice creams including praline.

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  18. Pizzeria Pizza House

    A pizza paradise, with pasta dishes making a cameo appearance. There are plenty of pizza toppings to choose from and a choice of crusts.

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  19. Rakaposhi

    This wonderful patisserie bakes some of the best cakes in town that are well worth the calorie blowout. It also does a sterling job of ice cream.

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  20. Red Onion

    Just the spot to cool your heels, this relaxing retreat has a Continental focus with a splash of Chinese and Pakistani dishes. There's everything from burgers and pizzas to mutton masala and chicken with green olives. Cheese aficionados should not miss the 'Just Say Cheese' pizza.

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  21. Safilo Milkshakes & Juices

    The place to come for lovely, creamy milkshakes.

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  23. Scoop Ice Creams

    Sells various flavours of velvety ice cream including mango and choc-chip.

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  24. United Bakery

    Bakes excellent cakes, cookies, savoury snacks and fresh bread (loaves and rolls). Chocolate donut/éclairs and sandwiches. Birthday cakes can be ordered here.

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  25. Usmania Restaurant

    Usmania is a welcome retreat from the tumultuous streets. The menu sports Pakistani and Chinese fare with hot favourites including chicken masala and mutton tikka.

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  26. Wang Fu

    A reliable Chinese option with a yummy selection of dishes, from podgy dumplings to squiggly noodles. There's plenty to choose from including sesame prawns, chicken with almonds, garlic fish, shrimp fried rice, spicy honey wings and Sichuan beef.

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  27. Zamana

    For light bites or more substantial meals (including buffets), the splendid Zamana offers a great selection of Pakistani, Chinese and Continental fare. Open 24 hours.

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