Islamabad is enriched with tastes from every corner of the world. There are many places offering a great hi-tea experience. The span of variety starts from local food options including chat and kebabs and goes on to Chinese, Thai, and continental cuisines.
This list contains the best hi-tea places & their dishes in Islamabad. It features the best restaurants of the city along with their hi tea timings and menus.
Table of Contents
Best Hi Tea Places & Dishes in Islamabad
1. Club Sandwiches at Al Momento
If you’re also a fan of club sandwiches, then Al Momento is the best place for you. Club Sandwiches are among the best food options on their hi-tea menu.
Basic Ingredients: A traditional club sandwich includes toasted bread, usually white or brown, layered with cooked chicken or shredded beef as the main protein. Crisp lettuce, such as iceberg or romaine, adds freshness, while sliced tomatoes bring juiciness and a subtle tang. Cucumber slices are sometimes added for an extra crunch and refreshing taste. Mayonnaise is spread on the bread for creaminess, and a bit of ketchup or chili sauce can be used for a touch of spice. Cheddar or another mild cheese is often included to enhance the flavor. These ingredients are typically stacked between three slices of bread, and the sandwich is cut into quarters, usually held together with toothpicks for easy serving.
This place is generally famous for its fine dining.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Momento | Booking Required | PKR 1,500 – 2,000 Per Person | 0303-5649107 |
2. Chicken Parmesan Pasta at Sage Cafe & Grill
Sage Cafe & Grill offers the best chicken parmesan pasta in the city. This dish invented by an Italian immigrant family in the USA. This restaurant gives much respect to the originality of the dishes.
Basic Ingredients: Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with pasta for a hearty dish. The main ingredient is boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are breaded and either pan-fried or baked until golden and crispy. This is paired with pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine, cooked al dente to provide the perfect base. The dish is generously coated in marinara sauce—a rich, tomato-based sauce seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano. Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese is added both for coating the chicken and for sprinkling over the pasta, adding a savory, nutty flavor. Mozzarella cheese is also used for its melting quality, providing a creamy texture to the dish. Fresh basil or parsley is often sprinkled on top as a garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Cafe & Grill | Weekends 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | PKR 1,200 – 1,800 Per Person | (051) 2656544 |
3. Chocolate Molten Cake at Chaaye Khana
When it comes to Deserts, Chaaye Khana is among the top choices in Islamabad. It’s a very famous chain of restaurants in Pakistan. Chocolate Molten Cake at Chaaye-Khana is especially worth trying. And since you’re already there, don’t forget to try something from their diverse chai menu as well.
Basic Ingredients: Chocolate Molten Cake, also known as Lava Cake, is a rich dessert that features a warm, gooey center of melted chocolate. The basic ingredients include high-quality dark chocolate, which is melted and combined with butter to form a smooth, rich base. Eggs and egg yolks are then whisked in, adding structure and richness to the batter. Sugar is included to sweeten the cake, and a small amount of flour is added to provide the cake’s delicate structure while keeping the center molten. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth and depth. Once baked, the cakes are served warm, often with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast between the hot, flowing chocolate center and the cold accompaniments.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chaaye-Khana | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | PKR 1,500 – 2,000 Per Person | (051) 8312193 |
4. Grilled Fish at English Tea House
Grilled Fish is an essential part of English Tea House’s hi-tea windsor platter. It also includes pizza slices, mini chicken puffs, and much more, but their grilled fish is especially worth trying. This platter is available every day in all their branches.
Basic Ingredients: Grilled fish is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of fresh fish. The basic ingredients start with a firm, flaky fish like salmon, tilapia, or seabass, which is seasoned to enhance its flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or melted butter is typically used to keep the fish moist during grilling and to add richness. Fresh lemon juice or lemon wedges provide a bright, tangy flavor that complements the fish. Seasonings like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder are commonly used, with herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme adding a fresh, aromatic touch. For extra flavor, a marinade of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, or a spice rub with paprika and cumin, can be used to infuse the fish before grilling. The fish is then grilled to perfection, developing a smoky, slightly charred exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. It is often served with sides like grilled vegetables, a light salad, or a garlic butter sauce for a complete meal.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Tea House | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | PKR 1,200 – 2,000 Per Person | 0311-1122161 |
5. Chicken Manchurian at Yum Chinese and Thai
As the name suggests, the place is a hub for Chinese and Thai food in Islamabad. Their Chicken Manchurian is worth trying, especially when you couple it with their fried rice. This makes the perfect combo meal for a hi-tea!
Basic Ingredients:Chicken Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish known for its savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The basic ingredients start with boneless chicken pieces, usually cut into cubes and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of cornstarch or flour for a light coating that crisps up during frying. The chicken is then deep-fried or pan-fried until golden and crispy.
The sauce is made using a base of soy sauce, ketchup, and vinegar, which provides the signature sweet and tangy flavor. Garlic, ginger, and green chilies are sautéed to infuse the sauce with heat and aroma. Chopped onions, bell peppers, and green onions are added for crunch and color, balancing the dish’s flavors and textures. A slurry of cornstarch and water is used to thicken the sauce, making it glossy and perfect for coating the chicken. The fried chicken is then tossed in this vibrant sauce, resulting in a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. Chicken Manchurian is often garnished with chopped green onions and served with fried rice or noodles, making it a favorite at both family meals and festive gatherings.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yum Chinese & Thai | 3:30 PM – 6:45 PM | PKR 1,500 – 2,000 | 0311-1122102 |
6. Chicken Lollypop and Wings at Shakespeare’s Lounge
Being an English tea house, this place offers many suitable options for hi tea. The customers have reviewed their chicken lollypop and wings to be very tasty among the starters. Coupled with their mint margaritas, it gives off a very rich experience.
Basic Ingredients: Chicken Lollipop and Chicken Wings are popular appetizers celebrated for their bold flavors and crispy textures. For Chicken Lollipop, the dish starts with chicken drumettes or wingettes, where the meat is pushed down to form a lollipop shape. These are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, and a bit of vinegar or lemon juice, then coated in a blend of all-purpose flour or cornstarch before being deep-fried to a golden crisp. They can be served with a spicy, tangy sauce made from soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic, and sugar. Chicken Wings, on the other hand, are typically seasoned with a combination of soy sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. They are often coated lightly with flour or cornstarch and either baked or fried until crispy. After cooking, the wings are usually tossed in a variety of sauces, such as buffalo, barbecue, or teriyaki, adding a burst of flavor. Both dishes are perfect for snacking, parties, or casual meals, offering a delightful crunch and savory taste.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shakespeare’s Lounge | 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM | PKR 1,200 – 2,100 | (051) 873155 |
7. Mexican Quesadilla Tuscany Courtyard Islamabad
This place is for you if you’re a fan of Mexican and Italian cuisines. On the top highlights, they serve Mexican Quesadillas in their hi teas which provides an original taste of mexican food.
Basic Ingredients: A Mexican Quesadilla is a delicious and versatile dish featuring melted cheese and a range of flavorful fillings, all sandwiched between tortillas. The core ingredient is the tortilla, typically flour, though corn tortillas can also be used for a traditional touch. The cheese, which is essential for that gooey, melted texture, is often a blend of Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or Monterey Jack, though cheddar can also be used for a sharper flavor. The quesadilla can be customized with various fillings, such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. For added protein, cooked chicken, beef, or even shrimp can be included. The tortillas are filled with cheese and desired ingredients, then cooked on a skillet until golden and crispy, with the cheese melted to perfection. Served with sides like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream, Mexican quesadillas offer a satisfying and flavorful meal.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindanos | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | PKR 1,000 – 1,500 | 0370-6463277 |
8. Beef Chilli Dry at Mindanos
If you happen to have a taste for beef and you’re looking for hi-tea options in Islamabad, then you have to visit Mindanos. They offer the best beef chilli dry in the city. This Chinese Pakistani dish is perfect for all beef and spice enthusiasts.
Basic Ingredients: Beef Chilli Dry is a flavorful Paki-Chinese dish known for its spicy, tangy, and flavorful profile. The dish starts with tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces and often marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, and a bit of cornstarch or flour to enhance tenderness and flavor. The sauce is a key component, typically made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili sauce, creating a rich and tangy base. Bell peppers, onions, and green chilies are commonly added, providing a crunchy texture and complementing the beef. Additional seasonings, like garlic, ginger, and green onions, along with a touch of sugar or honey, balance the dish’s flavors. The beef and vegetables are stir-fried with oil to achieve a crispy texture, and a cornstarch slurry is often used to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish. The result is a deliciously spicy and flavorful dish, usually served with steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindanos | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | PKR 1,000 – 1,500 | 0370-6463277 |
9. Mini Pizzas and Burgers at The Hangover Cafe
You should visit The Hangover Cafe if you’re looking for a place that offers a taste of everything in their hi-tea platter. Their mini pizzas and burgers are perfect food options for your hi tea. Coupled with bbq options and margaritas, they simply complete the best hi-tea experience in Islamabad.
Basic Ingredients:Mini Pizzas and Burgers are popular snacks that offer the classic flavors of their full-sized counterparts in a bite-sized form, perfect for gatherings and quick meals. Mini pizzas start with a base of small, round pizza doughs, which can be homemade or store-bought. These are topped with a rich tomato sauce seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil, and then generously sprinkled with shredded mozzarella cheese for that signature melty texture. Common toppings include pepperoni, diced bell peppers, olives, onions, mushrooms, and sometimes cooked chicken or beef for added protein. The mini pizzas are baked until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Mini burgers, also known as sliders, feature small burger buns that are often lightly toasted. The patties are usually made from ground beef, chicken, or even vegetables, and seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and sometimes herbs or spices for added flavor. The patties are grilled or pan-fried until juicy and cooked through, then placed inside the buns with classic toppings like cheese slices, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. Condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise add an extra layer of flavor. Mini pizzas and burgers are perfect for parties or casual meals, offering a satisfying taste in a convenient, handheld size.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Hangover Cafe | 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM | PKR 1,000 – 1,500 | (051) 2305674 |
10. Chocolate and Blueberry Mousse at Atrio Café & Grill
Once you’re done with their main menu which is already very good, you will find Chocolate and Blueberry Mousse in their dessert sections. Depending on your taste, you can try either of them and you’ll find them both to be exceptionally delicious.
Basic Ingredients:Chocolate Mousse is a rich, airy dessert made with a few simple ingredients that create a luscious, creamy texture. The key ingredient is high-quality dark chocolate, melted to form a smooth base. Heavy cream is whipped to soft peaks, providing the mousse with its light, airy texture. Egg yolks are often used for richness, while egg whites are whipped separately to add volume and lightness to the mousse. Sugar is included to sweeten the mixture, and a dash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. The ingredients are gently folded together to maintain the mousse’s airy consistency and then chilled until set, resulting in a decadent and smooth dessert.
Blueberry Mousse is a light and fruity dessert that combines fresh blueberries with cream for a refreshing treat. The main ingredients include fresh or frozen blueberries, which are cooked down with a bit of sugar to create a sweet blueberry puree. This puree is often strained to remove seeds and skins, ensuring a smooth texture. Heavy cream is whipped to soft peaks, adding the characteristic fluffiness of mousse. Gelatin is commonly used to help set the mousse, giving it a stable structure. A touch of lemon juice can be added to enhance the blueberry flavor with a slight tang. The mixture is folded together and chilled until firm, resulting in a delicate, fruity mousse that’s perfect for a light dessert.
Both chocolate and blueberry mousse offer a delightful, airy texture and can be garnished with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
| Name | Hi-Tea Timings | Price Range | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atrio Café & Grill | 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM | PKR 1,000 – 1,800 | (051) 8319999 |
Pick Your Favourite Dishes
All the restaurants in Islamabad mentioned offer a full hi-tea menu according to their niche, but this list consists only of their best items. Ones that previous customers have found to be exceptionally awesome. You can pick your favorite place according to your taste and preferences and if you’re a fan of any of the featured cuisines, then you should definitely visit the featured restaurant where it’s served best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I find a good hi tea place in Islamabad?
Islamabad offers several top-notch venues for hi-tea, each with its own unique charm. Some of the best tea places include Serena Hotel, Tuscany Courtyard, and Chaaye-Khana. These spots offer a blend of great food and ambiance, making them ideal for tea enthusiasts.
Which hi-tea restaurants offer a great tea experience?
There are numerous restaurants offering hi-tea in Islamabad, from high-end venues like Monal Restaurant to cozy tea houses like Street 1 Café. Each place offers a delectable menu and a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed tea experience.
What kind of dishes are included in a typical hi-tea platter?
A hi-tea platter often includes a mix of flavorful and sweet items like sandwiches, chicken strips, spring rolls, and pastries. Some places also offer a selection of mini burgers, samosas, and refreshing drinks like mint margaritas or iced teas.
What are the hi-tea buffet timings in Islamabad?
Most hi-tea buffets in Islamabad are served between 4 pm to 7 pm, although some restaurants, like Wild Rice and Des Pardes, may have different timings, especially on weekends. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Why should I explore Islamabad’s hi-tea scene?
The tea culture in Islamabad is diverse, offering a variety of delectable dishes that cater to both desi and continental palates. Whether you prefer a casual cafe setting or a more formal dining experience, the city has plenty of options to explore.
What is included in the tea menu at Islamabad’s best restaurants?
A typical tea menu includes a range of teas, both hot and cold, alongside coffee options. Many hi-tea spots in Islamabad also offer a wide range of snacks, sweets, and drinks that complement the selection of teas, providing something for every taste bud.
Can I find an affordable hi-tea place in Islamabad in 2024?
Yes, Islamabad has a variety of economical options for those looking to enjoy hi-tea at an affordable price. Options like Loafology, Burn Out, and Rakaposhi Cafeoffer delicious food and drinks without being too heavy on the wallet.
What makes the hi-tea buffet special in Islamabad?
Afternoon Tea buffets in the city offer a diverse selection of dishes, from continental snacks to desi specialties, which are hard to find elsewhere. Top restaurants like Khiva restaurant and BBQ Tonight provide a wide range of teas and mouth-watering delicacies in their main course that make for a memorable experience.
Are there ideal places that also offer coffee in Islamabad?
Many hi-tea restaurants, such as Marriott Hotel and Atrio Cafe, offer both tea and coffee, catering to a variety of preferences. These venues also offer a comfortable ambience and a menu that pairs well with both hot drinks.
Why should I try the hi tea buffets in Islamabad?
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a variety of delectable dishes with a wide selection of teas, the hi-tea spots in Islamabad are perfect. From economical options to premium restaurants, the city has something to offer for every tea enthusiast.
