Food In Lahore

Food History of Lahore, Pakistan

Lahore, known as the cultural capital of Pakistan, has a rich culinary history that dates back over a millennium. The city's cuisine has been influenced by the various empires that have ruled the region, including the Ghaznavids, Mughals, and Britons, infusing a unique blend of flavors and dishes. Mughal influences are particularly prominent, with rich spices, nuts, and dried fruits featuring in many Lahori dishes.

The city is famous for its street food and has numerous local delicacies that one can only find in the bustling lanes of Lahore. Food is deemed an essential part of Lahori culture, and traditional methods of cooking, such as using clay pots and tandoors, are still prevalent today.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Lahore for Tourists

1. Chicken Biryani (Non-Veg) - A vibrant, flavorful rice dish cooked with layers of marinated chicken, rice, and spices.
2. Chicken Karahi (Non-Veg) - A spicy curry made with tender chicken cooked in a karahi (wok) with tomatoes, green chilies, and a blend of spices.
3. Sarson Ka Saag with Makki Ki Roti (Veg) - A classic Punjabi dish made with mustard greens served with a flatbread made of maize flour.
4. Daal Chawal (Veg) - A simple yet satisfying dish of lentils served with steamed rice, often enjoyed with pickles or fried vegetables.
5. Haleem (Non-Veg) - A hearty stew made from wheat, barley, lentils, and chicken, slow-cooked to a soup-like consistency.
6. Aloo Keema (Non-Veg) - Spiced minced chicken cooked with potatoes and a mixture of fragrant herbs.
7. Chana Masala (Veg) - A spicy chickpea curry made with a mix of aromatic spices and served with bhaturas or naan.
8. Lassi (Veg) - A popular yogurt-based drink, traditionally served either sweet or salty, perfect to cool down on a hot Lahori day.
9. Chicken Shami Kebab (Non-Veg) - Ground chicken and lentils kebabs, spiced with traditional herbs and fried to perfection.
10. Gajar Ka Halwa (Veg) - A sweet carrot dessert, slow-cooked with milk, sugar, and ghee, often garnished with almonds and pistachios.

Top Famous Restaurants in Lahore with Address and Famous Food

• Café Aylanto
  Address: 12 C1 MM Alam Road, Gulberg III, Lahore
  Famous Food: Mediterranean cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg options available)
• Andaaz Restaurant
  Address: 2189 A Fort Road, behind Badshahi Mosque, Lahore
  Famous Food: Chicken Makhani Handi (Non-Veg)
• Haveli Restaurant
  Address: 2170A Food Street Fort Road, near Badshahi Mosque, Lahore
  Famous Food: Vegetable Biryani (Veg)
• Cosa Nostra
  Address: 23 A H Block Commercial Area, Gulberg II, Lahore
  Famous Food: Italian pizzas and pastas (Veg/Non-Veg options available)
• The Poet Restaurant
  Address: Small Gate, Iqbal Park, Minar-e-Pakistan, Circular Road, Lahore
  Famous Food: Chicken Handi (Non-Veg)
• Monal Lahore
  Address: Park and Ride Plaza, Liberty round about, Lahore
  Famous Food: Sarson Ka Saag with Makki Ki Roti (Veg)
• Yum Chinese & Thai
  Address: 24-K, Gulberg II, Lahore
  Famous Food: Thai Curry (Veg/Non-Veg options available)
• Bamboo Union
  Address: 95 D-1, Gulberg III, Lahore
  Famous Food: Chicken Pad Thai (Non-Veg)
• Fujiyama
  Address: Avari Hotel, 87 Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam, Lahore
  Famous Food: Sushi (Non-Veg)
• Spice Bazaar
  Address: 60-C3, MM Alam Road, Gulberg III, Lahore
  Famous Food: Spicy Grilled Paneer (Veg)