Biryani, one of the most beloved dishes in Pakistan, has a special place in the hearts of Islamabad’s food lovers. With its aromatic rice, tender meat, and a blend of spices, biryani is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a classic chicken biryani or a more indulgent mutton version, Islamabad offers an array of restaurants serving up delicious plates of biryani. Here’s a guide to the best places where you can find the most flavorful biryani in the city.
1. Tandoor Restaurant: Traditional Biryani at Its Best
Overview: Located in Sector F-6, Tandoor Restaurant is one of Islamabad’s most popular spots for traditional biryani. Known for its authentic taste and rich flavors, Tandoor’s biryani is a local favorite. The restaurant offers both chicken and mutton biryani, each cooked to perfection with a blend of spices that are true to Pakistani tradition.
Why Try It: Tandoor Restaurant’s biryani stands out for its use of high-quality ingredients, aromatic spices, and tender meat. The warm ambiance and impeccable service make it a great place to enjoy a hearty meal.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Mutton Biryani
- Tandoori Chicken
Where to Try:
- Tandoor Restaurant, Sector F-6
2. Chai Wala: Biryani with a Twist
Overview: While Chai Wala in F-6 is primarily known for its tea and snacks, their biryani has become a sought-after dish for food lovers in Islamabad. This restaurant puts its own unique twist on traditional biryani, blending classic flavors with a contemporary presentation.
Why Try It: Chai Wala’s biryani is a fusion of rich spices and perfectly cooked rice. It’s the ideal spot for those who want a more casual, modern take on biryani while enjoying the cozy ambiance.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Seekh Kebabs
- Paratha
Where to Try:
- Chai Wala, F-6
3. Karachi Biryani House: A Taste of Karachi in Islamabad
Overview: If you’re craving authentic Karachi-style biryani in Islamabad, Karachi Biryani House is the place to be. Known for its fiery, flavorful biryani that is packed with bold spices, this restaurant offers both chicken and mutton biryani, prepared using the classic Karachi recipe.
Why Try It: Karachi Biryani House delivers the bold, spicy flavors typical of Karachi-style biryani. Their biryani is flavorful and perfectly balanced, making it a popular spot for biryani enthusiasts.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Mutton Biryani
- Chicken Karahi
Where to Try:
- Karachi Biryani House, F-11
4. BBQ Tonight: Biryani for Every Palate
Overview: BBQ Tonight is an iconic Islamabad restaurant known for its diverse menu, which includes a fantastic range of biryani options. Whether you prefer a rich, aromatic chicken biryani or a tender mutton biryani, BBQ Tonight offers both, alongside a wide array of other grilled dishes.
Why Try It: BBQ Tonight’s biryani is known for its delicate flavors and well-balanced spice profile. The biryani is always served fresh and pairs perfectly with their signature kebabs and grilled items.
Signature Dishes:
- Mutton Biryani
- Chicken Biryani
- Mixed Grill Platter
Where to Try:
- BBQ Tonight, Sector G-6
5. Savour Foods: The Classic Islamabad Biryani
Overview: Savour Foods, located in Sector G-9, is a long-time favorite of locals for its hearty, flavorful biryani. Savour’s biryani is known for its classic, simple flavors that have won over generations of Islamabadis. Their biryani, made with succulent chicken or mutton, is perfectly spiced and served with a side of raita and salad.
Why Try It: If you’re looking for a traditional, no-frills biryani that delivers delicious flavor, Savour Foods is the place. The rich taste and generous portions ensure you’ll leave satisfied every time.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Mutton Biryani
- Chicken Karahi
Where to Try:
- Savour Foods, Sector G-9
6. Sattar Buksh: A Modern Twist on Biryani
Overview: For those looking to try something a little different, Sattar Buksh in F-6 offers a more contemporary twist on biryani. Known for its innovative menu that fuses traditional Pakistani flavors with modern presentations, Sattar Buksh’s biryani is a must-try for food enthusiasts who love to experiment.
Why Try It: Sattar Buksh’s biryani comes with a unique fusion of flavors and a modern twist, making it ideal for people who want to enjoy biryani in a trendy, youthful setting.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Mutton Biryani
- Sattar Special
Where to Try:
- Sattar Buksh, F-6