A Foodie’s Guide to the Top Lahore Restaurants
Published: 15/05/2025
Lahore, the heart of Pakistan, is famous for its rich culture, history, and, most importantly, its delicious food. If you’re searching for the top Lahore restaurants, you’re in for a treat! This guide will take you through the best restaurants in Lahore, Pakistan, from fine dining to Lahore street food.
Whether you’re a tourist looking for a restaurant in Pakistan Lahore or a local hunting for the best eateries in Lahore, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore the best Lahore restaurants that will make your taste buds dance!
Are you ready, food lover?
Why Lahore is a Food Paradise
When it comes to food, no city in Pakistan beats Lahore; it’s a foodie’s paradise!. The city offers a mix of traditional Pakistani dishes, international cuisines, and mouth-watering street food. From spicy karahi to creamy falooda, every restaurant in Lahore has something special.
Many restaurants near main attractions like Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort also provide stunning views, making your dining experience unforgettable.
Top Lahore Restaurants for Every Foodie
Here’s a list of the best Lahore restaurants that you must try. These places offer a variety of flavors, from authentic Pakistani to international dishes.
1. Andaaz Restaurant
Andaaz is a top Pakistani restaurant in Lahore, located in the old Walled City. This rooftop restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the Badshahi Mosque, making it a perfect restaurant near the main attractions. Their menu includes traditional dishes like Mutton Masala, Paneer Tikka, and Fish Tikka. The cultural vibe and delicious food make Andaaz a top choice for tourists and locals.
- Must-Try: Mutton Masala, Gulab Jamun
- Location: You can find Andaaz at 2189 A Fort Road, Shahi Mohallah, in the old Walled City of Lahore.
- Price Range: PKR 3,000–15,000
2. Cooco’s Den
Cooco’s Den is another gem in the Walled City, famous for its unique museum-like ambiance and traditional Pakistani food. Situated on Fort Road Food Street, this restaurant in Lahore is a favorite for its rooftop seating and views of historical landmarks. Their menu features karahi, tikka, and biryani, all made with fresh ingredients.
- Must-Try: Mutton Karahi, Chicken Tikka
- Location: Roshnai Gate, 2168/A Food St Fort Rd, Shahi Mohallah, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 2,000–10,000
- Tip: Visit at sunset for a magical view of the Badshahi Mosque.
3. Café Aylanto
If you’re craving international flavors, Café Aylanto is one of the best eateries in Lahore. Located on MM Alam Road, this fine-dining restaurant serves Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Their Moroccan Chicken and Cream of Mushroom soup are crowd favorites. The outdoor courtyard adds a charming touch to your dining experience.
- Must-Try: Moroccan Chicken, Sole Mediterranean
- Location: 12 C1 MM Alam Rd, Block C1, Gulberg III, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 2,000–12,000
4. Haveli Restaurant
Haveli Restaurant is inside the old Haveli Khalil Khan. It’s a great place to visit because of its rooftop views of the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. This is the best Lahore restaurant that combines traditional Pakistani cuisine with a cultural dining experience. Their Bhuna Qeema and Pudeeny wali Karahi are packed with flavor.
- Must-Try: Bhuna Qeema, Namkeen Lassi
- Location: Fort Road Food Street, Walled City, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 3,000–15,000
5. Spice Bazaar
For authentic Pakistani cuisine, Spice Bazaar is a top pick among restaurants in Lahore. Located just off MM Alam Road, this restaurant offers dishes like Malai Boti, Mutton Chops, and freshly baked naans. The vibrant ambiance makes it ideal for family gatherings or a night out with friends.
- Must-Try: Malai Boti, Chicken Handi
- Location: Gulberg III, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 1,500–8,000
6. Tabaq
Located in Lakshmi Chowk, Tabaq is a beloved restaurant in Lahore, Pakistan, known for its hearty Pakistani dishes. This spot is perfect for those who love spicy curries and grilled meats. Their Chicken Karahi and BBQ platters are crowd-pleasers, served in a lively, no-frills setting.
- Must-Try: Chicken Karahi, BBQ Platter
- Location: Lakshmi Chowk, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 1,000–6,000
7. Swat Restaurant
Also in Lakshmi Chowk, Swat Restaurant is a hidden gem among the best eateries in Lahore. Specializing in traditional Pakistani and Swati cuisine, this restaurant in Lahore serves flavorful dishes like Mutton Namkeen and Chapli Kabab. It’s a great spot for a quick, delicious meal.
- Must-Try: Mutton Namkeen, Chapli Kabab
- Location: Lakshmi Chowk, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 800–4,000
Best Pakistani Restaurants in Lahore
Lahore is home to some of the best Pakistani restaurants in Lahore, where you can enjoy authentic dishes like nihari, paye, and karahi. Don’t miss these other awesome spots while you’re exploring:
Butt Karahi
Butt Karahi in Lakshmi Chowk is legendary for its spicy karahi dishes. This restaurant in Pakistan Lahore is a favorite among locals for its affordable prices and rich flavors. The lively atmosphere and fresh ingredients make it a must-visit.
- Must-Try: Chicken Karahi, Roti
- Location: 16-McLeod Road, Lakshmi Chowk, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 1,000–5,000
Phajja Siri Paye
Located near the Badshahi Mosque, Phajja Siri Paye is famous for its paye (goat hoof) and mutton brain curry. This small shop offers a true taste of Lahore’s traditional food at budget-friendly prices.
- Must-Try: Paya, Mutton Brain Curry
- Location: Walled City, Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 500–2,000
Khan Baba
Khan Baba is a top choice for meat lovers, offering the best Pakistani restaurant in Lahore for dishes like daal, palak, and gurr waly chawal (jaggery rice). Their menu is packed with hearty, home-style meals that keep customers coming back.
- Must-Try: Mutton Roast, Gurr waly Chawal
- Location: Various locations in Lahore
- Price Range: PKR 1,000–5,000
Savoring Street Food in Lahore
No guide to the top Lahore restaurants is complete without exploring street food in Lahore. The city’s bustling streets are lined with vendors offering affordable, flavorful treats. Below, we’ve organized the best eateries in Lahore for street food by dish type to help you dive into this must-try experience.
Halwa Puri
Start your day with halwa puri, a traditional breakfast of crispy puri, spicy dal, and sweet halwa. This iconic dish is a staple at the best eateries in Lahore. Top places include:
- Chacha Basa and Sadiq in Gawalmandi, known for perfectly crispy puri and flavorful dal.
- Hafiz on Badiya Road, considered the best halwa puri in the city for its fluffy puri and sweet halwa.
- Ichhra and Shama Stop, where locals flock for a quick, delicious morning meal.
Channy (Chickpea Curry)
Channy is a beloved street food in Lahore, known for its spicy and tangy flavors. You’ll find some of the best Lahore restaurants for channy at street stalls across the city. Here are the top spots to try:
- Channy of Ghulam Rasool (Botty kay Channy) in Lakshmi Chowk, famous for its bold, spicy taste.
- Saleem Kay Channy on Mall Road, loved for its rich and hearty flavor.
- Tobba Kay Channy on Abbot Road, perfect for a quick, satisfying snack.
- Shahi Murgh Channy, available at various spots, offers a unique chicken-chickpea blend.
- Bhutto kay Channy in Multan Chungi, known for its creamy texture.
- Said Mitha Bazar k Badamon waly Channy, where almonds add a delightful twist.
Nihari
For a rich, slow-cooked dish, nihari is a must-try street food. Served at breakfast or dinner, it’s a hearty favorite. Visit:
- Nihari of Haji Sahib in Lohari, offering tender meat in a spicy, aromatic broth.
Palak Goshat
This mutton and spinach dish is a local favorite for its comforting flavors. Head to:
- Walima House Chowk, Dal Gram Ram Gali Number 2, is where this dish is served fresh and flavorful.
Keema
Keema, a spiced minced meat curry, pairs perfectly with naan. One of the best Lahore restaurants for this dish is:
- Keema of Sheefa, in front of Lahore Hotel, is known for its bold, savory taste.
Samosa
Crispy samosas stuffed with meat or lentils are a popular snack. Try them at:
- Shaikh K Samosy in Township, where the crispy exterior and spicy filling are unbeatable.
Aseel Tandoori Murghra
For a smoky, grilled bite, aseel tandoori murghra is a street food gem. Find it at:
- Various street stalls across the city offer juicy, flavorful chicken.
Katlama
Katlama, often called the “poor man’s pizza,” is a spicy, orange roti topped with lentils and masalas. It’s a Gawalmandi favorite:
- Available at busy street stalls in Gawalmandi, perfect for a quick, budget-friendly bite.
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Kulfi
Cool off with creamy, handcrafted kulfi, a traditional frozen dessert. A top spot is:
- Baba Kulfi Wala in Shah Alami, where the kulfi melts in your mouth.
Falooda
For a refreshing dessert, falooda with rabbri and kulfi is a must. Visit:
- Yousaf Falooda in Old Anarkali serves this sweet treat with a perfect balance of flavors.
Tip: Head to Gawalmandi, Lakshmi Chowk, or Food Street in the Walled City for the best eateries in Lahore offering street food. These areas are bustling with vendors and open late into the night.
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Conclusion
Lahore’s food scene is a blend of tradition, flavor, and culture. From the best Lahore restaurants like Andaaz and Cooco’s Den to the vibrant Lahore street food in Gawalmandi and Lakshmi Chowk, there’s something for every food lover.
Whether you’re looking for a restaurant in Lahore with a view, a budget-friendly restaurant in Pakistan Lahore, or iconic street eats like Shahi Murgh Channy or Hafiz’s Halwa Puri, this guide has it all.
So, grab your friends or family, visit these best eateries in Lahore, and enjoy the unforgettable flavors of the city!
FAQs
Lahore’s Gawalmandi, Lakshmi Chowk, and Walled City are famous for street food. You can find delicious channy, samosas, and halwa puri in these areas. Visit at night for a lively food experience!
Lahore has restaurants for all budgets, from street food to fine dining. Street food like channy or samosas costs PKR 500–2,000, while places like Café Aylanto can cost PKR 2,000–12,000. You can choose based on your budget!
Lahore street food is usually safe if you pick busy stalls with fresh food. Look for places like Ghulam Rasool’s channy or Shaikh’s samosas, where locals eat. Always check that the food looks clean and hot.
Andaaz and Haveli in the Walled City offer rooftop views of the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. Cooco’s Den also has a great view of historical sites. Book a table at sunset for a beautiful experience!
Lahore’s food scene is great all year, but evenings are best for street food and restaurants. Winter months (November–February) are cool and perfect for outdoor dining. Visit Food Street at night for a fun vibe!
Yes, Lahore has international restaurants like Café Aylanto, which serves Mediterranean and Italian dishes. You can enjoy dishes like Moroccan Chicken or pasta in Gulberg. For Pakistani food, try Andaaz or Butt Karahi.
Try traditional dishes like karahi at Butt Karahi, nihari at Haji Sahib’s, or halwa puri at Hafiz’s. Street food like katlama and Yousaf’s falooda are also delicious. Don’t miss gurr waly chawal at Khan Baba!
Many Lahore restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like daal, palak, and paneer tikka. Places like Spice Bazaar and Khan Baba have tasty veggie options. Street food stalls also serve vegetarian channy and samosas.
Look for restaurants in the Walled City, like Andaaz, Haveli, or Phajja Siri Paye, near Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. These spots are easy to reach and offer great food with views. Use a map app to locate them quickly.
Lahore’s food culture mixes traditional Pakistani flavors with a love for street food and fine dining. You can enjoy spicy channy, creamy kulfi, or fancy meals in one city. The lively food streets and historic settings make eating in Lahore special!
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
