Lahore is a vibrant city that is celebrated for its rich culture and culinary diversity. Among its many culinary gems, Lahore is very famous for having the best desi food scene in the country.
From aromatic biryanis to sizzling barbecues, Lahore’s desi restaurants showcase the true essence of Pakistani cuisine. Each dish tells a story, steeped in heritage and prepared with love. This guide highlights the finest desi restaurants in Lahore.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Rating | Location | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monal Restaurant | 4.3 (20.8K Google Reviews) | Plaza Liberty Park and Ride, Liberty Chowk, Gulberg III, Lahore | (042) 35789823 |
| Haveli Restaurant | 4.3 (16K Google Reviews) | 2170-A Food St Fort Rd, opposite Badshahi Mosque, Walled City, Lahore | 0300 8414899 |
| Butt Karahi | 4.2 (9.8K Google Reviews) | Gita Bhavan Building, 18/3 Lakshmi Chowk, McLeod Rd, Royal Park, Lahore | 0335 4005826 |
| Salt’n Pepper Village | 4.1 (9.8K Google Reviews) | B-103 MM Alam Rd, Block B2 Gulberg-III, Lahore | 0311 1101047 |
| Dera Restaurant | 4.1 (7.9K Google Reviews) | Hafeez Kardar Rd, near Gaddafi Stadium, Block E2, Gulberg-III, Lahore | 0322 4305059 |
| Chandni Chowk Restaurant | 4.2 (7.1K Google Reviews) | 227 Gurumangat Rd, Block A3 Gulberg III, Lahore | 0320 4751111 |
| Ghani Shinwari | 4.4 (6K Google Reviews) | General Truck Stand, 22/A Ravi Rd, Qila Lachman Singh, Lahore | 0333 0371414 |
| Ziafat | 4.0 (5.1K Google Reviews) | 26-H College Rd, Block H Gulberg 2, Lahore | 0345 6789105 |
| Muhammadi Nahari House | 4.0 (2.6K Google Reviews) | 77-R1 Main Blvd, Block R1 Phase 2 Johar Town, Lahore | (042) 35112641 |
| Masalawala by Qasar-e-Noor | 4.2 (2,530 Google Reviews) | 9-e-2 Block E 2 Gulberg III, Lahore, Punjab | 0308 8789789 |
| Bagh – The Desi Experience | 3.9 (2,143 Google Reviews) | HEC Park, Off MM Alam Rd, Block B2 Gulberg III, Lahore, Punjab 54600 | 0320 9992244 |
| Khan Baba Restaurant | 4.5 (56 Google Reviews) | Lower Mall, Niaz View Sanda, Lahore | 0333 5455690 |
Best Desi Restaurants in Lahore
1. Monal Restaurant (Rating: 4.3 | 20.8K Google Reviews)
Monal is a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy both desi and international dishes in a beautiful setting. It’s perched at Liberty Chowk, offering a sweeping view of Lahore’s skyline, making it perfect for family dinners or a romantic night out. The menu features everything from rich BBQ platters to continental delights. With its scenic ambiance and impeccable service, Monal remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike, delivering on both taste and experience.
| Restaurant | Monal-Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.3 (20.8K Google Reviews) |
| Location | Plaza Liberty Park and Ride, Liberty Chowk, Gulberg III, Lahore |
| Phone | (042) 35789823 |
2. Haveli Restaurant (Rating: 4.3 | 16K Google Reviews)
Haveli Restaurant offers a true taste of Lahore with incredible views of the Badshahi Mosque. Famous for its rich and spicy dishes, Haveli’s menu includes everything from traditional BBQ to Chinese and Afghan flavors. The rooftop dining experience, combined with live music and a rich cultural vibe, makes it a must-visit. If you’re looking to soak in the historical charm of Lahore while enjoying a memorable meal, Haveli should be at the top of your list.
| Restaurant | Haveli Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.3 (16K Google Reviews) |
| Location | 2170-A Food St Fort Rd, opposite Badshahi Mosque, Walled City, Lahore |
| Phone | 0300 8414899 |
3. Butt Karahi (Rating: 4.2 | 9.8K Google Reviews)
Butt Karahi is a legendary name when it comes to traditional Chicken and Mutton Karahis in Lahore. Known for its fresh, made-to-order meals, this spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Located at Lakshmi Chowk, it offers a lively, authentic atmosphere and rich flavors. Their unique blend of spices has turned Butt Karahi into a culinary icon, making it a must-visit for those craving a true taste of Lahore.
| Restaurant | Butt Karahi |
| Rating | 4.2 (9.8K Google Reviews) |
| Location | Gita Bhavan Building, 18/3 Lakshmi Chowk, McLeod Rd, Royal Park, Lahore |
| Phone | 0335 4005826 |
4. Salt’n Pepper Village (Rating: 4.1 | 9.8K Google Reviews)
Salt’n Pepper Village offers an exciting “Live Buffet” concept, where diners can watch their meals being prepared in a market-style setting. The menu is filled with traditional subcontinental dishes alongside modern twists on old favorites. Known for being family-friendly, Salt’n Pepper has been a pioneer in the culinary world, helping to revive forgotten local classics. With its vibrant atmosphere and focus on quality, it remains a top choice for anyone looking to indulge in traditional flavors.
| Restaurant | Salt’n Pepper Village |
| Rating | 4.1 (9.8K Google Reviews) |
| Location | B-103 MM Alam Rd, Block B2 Gulberg III, Lahore |
| Phone | 0311 1101047 |
5. Dera Restaurant (Rating: 4.1 | 7.9K Google Reviews)
This restaurant brings the true spirit of Pakistan to the table with its authentic BBQ and traditional dishes. Established in 2003, Dera stands out with its unique setup of chaarpai and moora seating, giving diners a cultural experience along with their meal. Known for dishes like Taka Chicken and their wide selection of BBQ, Dera offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it perfect for family gatherings. Its Hi-tea buffet is also a hit with foodies who want to try a bit of everything.
| Restaurant | Dera-Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.1 (7.9K Google Reviews) |
| Location | Hafeez Kardar Rd, near Gaddafi Stadium, Block E2, Gulberg III, Lahore |
| Phone | 0322 4305059 |
6. Chandni Chowk Restaurant (Rating: 4.2 | 7.1K Google Reviews)
Chandni Chowk Restaurant offers an impressive all-you-can-eat experience, featuring a variety of traditional and international dishes. Their open kitchen allows guests to watch their food being prepared, adding a fun and transparent twist to dining. The restaurant boasts a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening with family or friends. If you’re after great food and a laid-back experience, Chandni Chowk delivers on both fronts.
| Restaurant | Chandni Chowk Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.2 (7.1K Google Reviews) |
| Location | 227 Gurumangat Rd, Block A3 Gulberg III, Lahore |
| Phone | 0320 4751111 |
7. Ghani Shinwari (4.4 | 6K Google Reviews)
Ghani Shinwari is a vibrant destination in Badami Bagh, renowned for its authentic Shinwari cuisine. Specialties include Dumba Karahi, Roash, and Mutton Chomps, each prepared with care. A standout feature is the option for diners to select their meat, which is cut and cooked right before their eyes. To ensure the best experience, it’s recommended to pre-order your meal due to the extensive cooking time. The rustic ambiance adds to the charm, making it a top spot for those craving traditional, slow-cooked Pakistani food.
| Restaurant | Ghani Shinwari |
| Rating | 4.4 (6K Google Reviews) |
| Location | General Truck Stand, 22/A Ravi Rd, Qila Lachman Singh, Lahore |
| Phone | 0333 0371414 |
8. Ziafat (4.0 | 5.1K Google Reviews)
Ziafat has long been celebrated as one of Lahore’s best buffet restaurants. Offering a diverse menu that includes favorites like Mutton Karahi and Roghni Naan, it caters to those seeking a wide range of authentic desi flavors. The elegant interior, adorned with white decor and comfortable seating, provides a refined atmosphere for dining. Conveniently situated near MM Alam Road, Ziafat is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions, making it a go-to choice for an authentic Pakistani buffet experience.
| Restaurant | Ziafat |
| Rating | 4.0 (5.1K Google Reviews) |
| Location | 26-H College Rd, Block H Gulberg 2, Lahore |
| Phone | 0345 6789105 |
9. Muhammadi Nahari House (4.0 | 2.6K Google Reviews)
For enthusiasts of nihari, Muhammadi Nahari House stands as an iconic establishment. This restaurant is famous for its traditional nihari, including the unique Camel Nihari. Each dish is rich in flavor and served alongside freshly baked naan, offering a genuine taste of Pakistani cuisine. A visit to Muhammadi Nahari House is incomplete without indulging in their renowned Beef Nalli Nihari, making it a must-visit for true food lovers.
| Restaurant | Muhammadi Nahari House |
| Rating | 4.0 (2.6K Google Reviews) |
| Location | 77-R1 Main Blvd, Block R1 Phase 2 Johar Town, Lahore |
| Phone | (042) 35112641 |
10. Masalawala by Qasar-e-Noor (4.2 | 2,6K Google Reviews)
Masalawala is a dynamic family restaurant situated in Gulberg III, known for its expansive buffet offerings. The atmosphere is vibrant, featuring a tasteful mix of traditional and contemporary decor. With impeccable cleanliness and hygiene standards, diners can savor a wide variety of dishes, from local specialties to international favorites. The attentive staff ensures a pleasant dining experience, making Masalawala a fantastic option for family gatherings or casual outings with friends.
| Restaurant | Masalawala by Qasar-e-Noor |
| Rating | 4.2 (2,530 Google Reviews) |
| Location | 9-e-2 Block E 2 Gulberg III, Lahore, Punjab |
| Phone | 0308 8789789 |
11. Bagh – The Desi Experience (3.9 | 2,1K Google Reviews)
Bagh offers a delightful dining experience that showcases a wide array of traditional Pakistani dishes. The cozy ambiance is complemented by top-notch service, making it an ideal place for meals with friends and family. Signature dishes include Chicken Karahi cooked in Desi Ghee and Turkish Cheese Boti, each promising a burst of flavor. The spacious outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the warm Lahore evenings while relishing authentic flavors.
| Restaurant | Bagh – The Desi Experience |
| Rating | 3.9 (2,143 Google Reviews) |
| Location | HEC Park, Off MM Alam Rd, Block B2 Gulberg III, Lahore, Punjab 54600 |
| Phone | 0320 9992244 |
12. Khan Baba Restaurant (4.5 | 56 Google Reviews)
Khan Baba Restaurant is a beloved spot recognized for its simple decor and timeless desi flavors. Dishes are crafted with pure, homemade desi ghee, ensuring unmatched quality and authenticity. Must-try items include Qeema Naan, Mutton Karahi, and Zarda, each prepared to perfection. Though the prices may lean towards the higher end, the consistent flavor and quality make it a worthwhile destination for any local cuisine aficionado.
| Restaurant | Khan Baba Restaurant |
| Rating | 4.5 (56 Google Reviews) |
| Location | Lower Mall, Niaz View Sanda, Lahore |
| Phone | 0333 5455690 |
Top Desi Picks in Lahore
If you’re confused between these many places, Haveli Restaurant is a top pick, with its breathtaking views and mouthwatering traditional delicious food. Another gem among the best restaurants in Lahore is Butt Karahi, famous for its delicious Karahi meals that never disappoint. Both spots capture the heart of desi cuisine, making them perfect choices for anyone looking to enjoy the best flavors this city has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of cuisine can I expect at these restaurants?
These restaurants provide a variety of traditional dishes, including hearty curries, grilled meats, and flavorful rice options, all prepared with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients.
Are reservations required for dining in the walled city of Lahore?
While some establishments accept walk-ins, it’s advisable to make reservations, especially during peak hours or weekends, to ensure a table.
Do these places cater to dietary restrictions?
Many restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan options, and some can accommodate specific dietary needs upon request. It’s best to inquire directly with the restaurant beforehand.
What is the average price range for meals?
Prices can vary significantly depending on the restaurant and menu choices. Generally, you can find options to fit various budgets, from casual dining to more upscale experiences.
Are these restaurants suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of these venues offer a welcoming atmosphere, with spacious seating and kid-friendly menu options, making them great for family outings.
Is parking available at these food street locations?
Most restaurants have designated parking areas, but availability can vary. It’s recommended to check in advance or consider alternative transport options during busy times.
Can I enjoy live entertainment while dining?
Some of these establishments feature live music or cultural performances, adding to the dining experience. It’s worth checking their event schedule for any special performances during your visit.
