I’m the kind of person who orders the most unfamiliar thing on the menu – a habit that’s led to some… interesting experiences.
Live octopus in Seoul? Check. Fermented shark in Iceland? Been there. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t. But when it comes to Pakistani food in London? Every gamble has paid off – big time.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a flavour adventure you won’t forget, buckle up. These Pakistani restaurants in London are about to rock your world (and your taste buds).
Salloos
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Location: 62-64 Kinnerton St, London SW1X 8ER, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7235 4444
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: £££
Established in 1976 by Muhammed Salahuddin, Salloos is a culinary institution that blends sophistication and classic Pakistani tradition. Its allure extends beyond Belgravia locals, attracting a diverse clientele that includes diplomats and all sorts of bigwigs.
The menu here is a treasure trove of Pakistani culinary delights. Try their signature chicken kofte and the slow-cooked raan masala (leg of lamb), a dish designed for sharing.
Another standout is the haleem akbari, a hearty dish with shredded lamb simmered with lentils and wheat germ. Make sure to end your meal on a sweet note and indulge in the Nargisi kofta or the decadent carrot halwa.
Zayna
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Location: 25 New Quebec St, London W1H 7SF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7723 2229
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: £££
With its warm glow and welcoming ambience, Zayna is a culinary oasis tucked near Marble Arch. Inside, you’ll be transported to a world of Northern Indian and Pakistani flavours.
Inspired by owner Riz Dar’s childhood in Kashmir and Punjab, the menu is a mix of vegan, vegetarian, and carnivorous delights, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Don’t miss their aromatic biryanis and the perfectly spiced gurda qeema, where minced lamb mingles with delicate spices and finely chopped kidneys for a truly unforgettable experience.
Tayyabs
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Location: 83-89 Fieldgate St, London E1 1JU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7247 9543
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Pricing: ££
Since 1972, Tayyabs has reigned as a family-run institution in Whitechapel by serving up Punjabi cuisine that’s more than just food – it’s an experience.
Try their legendary lamb chops. These boldly spiced, sizzling beauties are so tender they practically melt in your mouth, leaving you wanting more (and maybe a bib).
Don’t forget to order the keema naan, a pillowy flatbread stuffed with spiced minced meat that’s the perfect sidekick to any curry. Note that this place is a no-frills BYOB establishment, which means you can bring your own booze and focus on the food.
Aladin
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Location: 132 Brick Ln, London E1 6RU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7247 8210
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Pricing: ££
Looking for a culinary adventure that’s a little bit different? Aladin, a London institution since 1979, is your ticket to a world of authentic Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi flavours. Trust me, this isn’t your average curry house.
Imagine melt-in-your-mouth moducash chicken curry, fiery fish tikka masala, and a whole symphony of other dishes that’ll leave you craving more.
But wait, there’s more! Aladin is like stepping back in time, with its cosy atmosphere and friendly staff, including Mr Green and Manna, who are always ready with a smile and a recommendation.
Namak Mandi
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Location: 25 Upper Tooting Rd, Tooting Bec, London SW17 7TS, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8767 6120
Operating hours:
- Saturday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Namak Mandi is all about the sounds of sizzling food and the aroma of spices filling the air. Waiters weave through the crowds, balancing bowls of fragrant dishes and enormous Afghan naans (and yes, it’s amazing).
Their signature lamb sajji is a carnivore’s dream come true – a mountain of tender meat on a bed of fluffy kabli pulao. Want the VIP experience? Head upstairs to their private rooms and feasts like royalty on cushions and carpets.
Or maybe you can join the lively crowd downstairs and witness the culinary magic unfold before your eyes. Don’t miss the chance to try their legendary chapli kebabs – these crispy, spiced delights are a flavour explosion in every bite.
Lahori
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Location: 2-4 Gateforth St, London NW8 8EH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 4538 5901
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:15 PM
Pricing: ££
Forget everything you thought you knew about lentils, because Lahori’s Tarka daal, infused with smoky garlic, red chilli, and cumin, will stun your tastebuds.
Their creamy muttar paneer is a vegetarian delight, while their signature karahi dishes, marinated in a symphony of Mughlai spices, will transport you directly to the bustling bazaars of Lahore.
But their charm extends beyond its mouthwatering menu. Whether you choose their modern, family-friendly Church Street location or their vibrant Upton Park spot, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family.
Lahore Kebab House
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Location: 2-10 Umberston St, London E1 1PY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7481 9737
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Lahore Kebab House is a no-nonsense legend in the London culinary scene This Whitechapel landmark has been dishing out authentic Pakistani grub since 1972, earning a reputation for serving the “best chicken tikka ever” in a “grunge-tastic” setting that attracts a diverse crowd.
From East End locals to curious tourists, everyone flocks to this bustling grill for a taste of their mouthwatering dry lamb curry, spiced chicken karahi, and, of course, the legendary lamb chops.
The service might be brisk here, but the food is consistently top-notch, making it the perfect spot for large groups, solo diners, or anyone craving a taste of authentic Pakistani cuisine without any fuss.
SHOLA Karachi Kitchen
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Location: SHOLA Unit 6 Media Works, Wood Ln, London W12 7FP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7871 307271
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Chef Aida Khan is the culinary mastermind behind SHOLA’s menu, and trust me, she knows her way around a spice rack. The Karachi Crunch Burger is a must-try – crispy fried chicken in a buttery bun with a tangy mayo that will have you licking your fingers.
For something more traditional, the slow-cooked daals are pure comfort food, while the BBQ lamb shoulder, marinated for two days and slow-cooked to perfection, will melt in your mouth.
And don’t even get me started on the desserts – the Meetha Paratha and Naan Khatai are sweet, buttery heaven, perfectly paired with their silky Doodhpathi Chai.
Khyber Pass
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Location: 718 Romford Rd, London E12 6BT, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8911 9615
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Run by the lovely Zafar and Zarina since 2000, this unassuming eatery is a culinary oasis where the aromas of sizzling lamb and fragrant spices will instantly ignite your appetite.
Their famed Namak Mandi Lamb Karahi, a fiery symphony of tender meat, tomatoes, ginger, and chillies, is the stuff of legend, while the chappli kebabs and chicken pulao are comfort food at its finest.
But this spot is more than just a meal. The warm, familial atmosphere and evocative decor, inspired by the legendary mountain pass connecting Pakistan and Afghanistan, create an experience that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem.
Lahore Local
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Location: 307 A, Uxbridge Rd, London W3 9QU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3807 8667
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: £
This eatery is a hidden gem that’s been delighting taste buds since its doors opened. The menu is a love letter to Lahore’s culinary heritage, with must-try dishes like the Chicken Karahi and the Lahori Fish.
While they may not offer “special offers” in the traditional sense, the generous portions and wallet-friendly prices are a deal in themselves. Plus, they also have a BYOB policy so you can save a few quid!
