Halal food in Pakistan is effortless—as an Islamic republic with 97% Muslim population, all food is halal by default. Pakistan offers some of the world’s finest cuisine. View other halal destinations and halal certification information.

How Accessible Is Halal Food?

  • All food halal: Islamic republic
  • Pork banned: Not available
  • Alcohol banned: Not available

Famous Pakistani Dishes

  • Biryani: Spiced rice with meat (Karachi famous)
  • Nihari: Slow-cooked beef stew (Lahore specialty)
  • Haleem: Meat and lentil stew
  • Karahi: Wok-cooked meat
  • Seekh kebab: Grilled minced meat
  • Chapli kebab: Peshawari specialty
  • Sajji: Whole roasted lamb

Best Food Cities

Lahore

  • Food capital of Pakistan
  • Famous Food Street (Gawalmandi)
  • Old Lahore cuisine
  • Nihari, paya, halwa puri

Karachi

  • Biryani capital
  • Burns Garden food stalls
  • Sindhi cuisine
  • Seafood along coast

Islamabad

  • Modern restaurants
  • Diverse Pakistani cuisines
  • Street food in F-sectors

Peshawar

  • Chapli kebab originates here
  • Charsi tikka
  • Peshawari cuisine

Street Food Heaven

  • Gol gappay (pani puri)
  • Chaat
  • Pakoras
  • Samosas
  • Bun kebab

Practical Tips

  1. All halal: No verification anywhere
  2. Lahore for food: Pakistan’s food capital
  3. Street food safe: All halal
  4. Try nihari: Breakfast specialty
  5. Biryani in Karachi: Must experience
  6. Tea culture: Chai everywhere