Islamabad is known for its picturesque landscapes, but did you know that the city’s street food scene is equally exciting? From spicy chaats to juicy kebabs, Islamabad’s streets are lined with food stalls and carts offering a variety of local snacks that are perfect for a quick bite or a casual evening out. If you’re looking to explore the best of Islamabad’s street food, here are the top spots you need to check out!
1. Savour Foods: For the Classic Chicken Pulao
Overview: Savour Foods is an iconic name when it comes to Islamabad street food. While it’s more of a fast-casual restaurant, it’s known for serving one of the city’s most famous street foods—chicken pulao. The restaurant is always buzzing with hungry customers, eager to enjoy this simple yet delicious dish. The aroma of perfectly cooked rice and tender chicken makes it a must-visit for street food lovers.
Why Visit: Savour Foods has become a household name in Islamabad because of its tasty and flavorful chicken pulao, which is a favorite for both locals and visitors. With its reasonable prices and delicious food, it’s a perfect place for a quick street food meal.
Signature Dishes:
- Chicken Pulao
- Seekh Kebabs
- Chicken Tikka
2. G-9 Food Street: A Hub for Diverse Street Food
Overview: G-9 Food Street in Islamabad is a hotspot for anyone looking to dive into the city’s vibrant street food culture. From sizzling kebabs to sweet and tangy chaat, the food street offers a mix of local and international street food options. Whether you want to try crispy samosas, chana chaat, or fresh fruit chaat, G-9 Food Street has it all.
Why Visit: This lively food street is the place to go if you’re in the mood for variety. The open-air environment adds to the charm, where you can explore the flavors of Islamabad in a fun, bustling atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or something sweet, G-9 offers a little bit of everything.
Signature Dishes:
- Chana Chaat
- Samosas
- Chaat Papri
- Aloo Tikki
3. Jinnah Super Market: Street Food Delights
Overview: Jinnah Super Market is another popular location where street food lovers can get their fix. The area is filled with food carts and vendors serving a range of quick bites such as pakoras, chaat, and fresh juices. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some light snacks while doing some shopping or hanging out with friends.
Why Visit: Jinnah Super is always lively, especially in the evenings when the food stalls are brimming with activity. You’ll find street food staples like spicy golgappas, crunchy pakoras, and sweet lassi. If you’re looking for an affordable snack to munch on while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, Jinnah Super is a must-visit.
Signature Dishes:
- Golgappas (Pani Puri)
- Pakoras
- Chana Chaat
- Fresh Juices
4. F-6 Markaz: A Taste of Islamabad’s Traditional Street Snacks
Overview: F-6 Markaz, located in one of the most well-known areas of the city, is a great place for those who love traditional street food. Here, you can enjoy items such as chana chaat, bun kebabs, and pakoras. It’s also famous for serving mouth-watering kebabs, which are grilled to perfection and served with freshly baked naan.
Why Visit: This area brings together some of the best flavors of traditional Pakistani street food. It’s perfect for a quick, flavorful meal on the go or an evening out with friends and family. The food stalls are known for serving hot and fresh items that are sure to leave you craving more.
Signature Dishes:
- Bun Kebabs
- Seekh Kebabs
- Chana Chaat
- Samosas
5. Scoop Café: A Fusion of Street Food and Café Vibes
Overview: Scoop Café, located in the F-11 area, is a trendy yet casual café offering a unique fusion of street food and café-style dishes. While it serves various snacks like burgers and fries, it also features local street food items such as samosas, spring rolls, and chaats. The café has a contemporary atmosphere and is popular among the younger crowd who want a modern take on street food.
Why Visit: Scoop Café is perfect for those who love street food but want to enjoy it in a more laid-back, stylish environment. It’s ideal for a quick snack while enjoying a relaxed meal with friends. The fusion dishes and trendy setting make it a hit among foodies.
Signature Dishes:
- Chaat
- Samosas
- Spring Rolls
- Shawarma