Bar B-Q Stop at Muhammadi Chowk in Khayaban-e-Sir Syed, Rawalpindi, is a popular local eatery known for its smoky, traditional grilled specialties and late-night dining.
Bala Tikka House, located at Banni Chowk, is a famous traditional restaurant technically situated in Rawalpindi (part of the twin cities metro area alongside Islamabad). About History: It is a culinary gem established in 1963. It is one of the oldest and most trusted desi eateries in the twin cities. Cuisine: The restaurant specializes in authentic, traditional Pakistani BBQ and Karahis. Ambiance: It features a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. It offers casual seating options including traditional indoor and rooftop spaces. Popular Dishes: Their signature dish is Chicken and Mutton Karahi cooked in butter. They are also well known for their seekh kebabs, namkeen tikka, and hot oven naans.
Bar B.Q. Tonight in G-6/3 Blue Area, Islamabad (located at Sohrab Plaza, Fazl-e-Haq/Embassy Road) is a premier family-friendly restaurant famous for pioneering authentic charcoal-grilled barbecue, traditional Pakistani desi dishes, and signature items like mutton ribs and Dum Pukht. Its frequent promotional tagline is "Taste The Tradition." About the Restaurant Location: Sohrab Plaza, Block-32, Fazl-e-Haq Road, G-6/3, Blue Area, Islamabad. Core Specialties: Signature BBQ platters, mix grill, seekh kebabs, tikka, Afghani boti, mutton ribs, and Dum Pukht. Ambiance: Elegant, cozy, and family-oriented, well-suited for casual dining, birthdays, and group gatherings. Timing: Open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
Rewayat in I-8 Markaz, Islamabad is a culture-themed rooftop restaurant offering traditional Pakistani desi and Turkish-influenced cuisine with scenic views of the city. About Rewayat (I-8 Markaz) Location: 7th Floor (Rooftop), Vista Plaza, I-8 Markaz, Islamabad. Ambiance: Features a cultural setup decorated with portraits of legendary artists (like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Noor Jehan) alongside an open-air rooftop experience overlooking city lights. Offerings: Famous for signature desi items like Mutton Peshwari, specialized Karahis, BBQ platters, Matka Biryani, and traditional breakfasts (Rewayati Nashta). Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Saffron Foodies (also known as Saffron Family Restaurant) is a popular, multi-cuisine establishment with prominent locations in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. They are highly rated for blending authentic Pakistani desi flavors with Chinese and continental dishes.
The Lambster's is a rooftop dining destination in I-8 Markaz, Islamabad, offering panoramic city views, live BBQ, and bold flavors ranging from traditional slow-cooked Shinwari Karahi to sizzling steaks and loaded platters.
Anarkali Restaurant is a popular dining chain located in Commercial Market, Rawalpindi (part of the twin cities, often visited by residents of both Islamabad and Rawalpindi), with an additional branch in G-9, Islamabad. The restaurant is known for its "Royal taste in town" and frequently uses the poetic tagline: "Mohabbat ka safar ho ya zindagi ka, saath ho Anarkali ka zaiqa" (Whether it is the journey of love or life, let it be accompanied by the taste of Anarkali)