Karachi, often referred to as the City of Lights, is not only Pakistan's largest city but also a culinary melting pot that tantalises taste buds with its diverse and vibrant flavours. Every other city has one famous dish that is synonymous with it: Lahore’s fried fish, Peshawar’s karahi, Quetta’s sajji, but Karachi has one too many offerings that a single specialty is not enough to encapsulate its culinary landscape.
From roadside stalls to upscale restaurants, Karachi's food scene is a testament to its cultural richness and diversity. As someone who only visits Karachi once a year, I make sure to truly immerse myself in the food that our city has to offer. Here is a list of five foods that are an absolute must-have during your time in Karachi:
Starting off strong: Biryani!
No conversation about Karachi's iconic foods is complete without mentioning the crown jewel of its culinary offerings: biryani. This rice dish is a true masterpiece that has captivated food enthusiasts far beyond Karachi, or even Pakistan. What sets Karachi's biryani apart from its counterparts is its long-grain Basmati rice cooked with usually chicken or mutton, along with a blend of spices that imparts a symphony of flavours. The dish is traditionally accompanied by raita (yoghurt with herbs and spices).
From the bustling streets of Burns Road to upscale eateries in Clifton, biryani remains a staple on Karachi's dining tables. There is no single restaurant that one can single out as the “best biryani”, rather it is offered on a spectrum, in which each individual can find their perfect biryani.
Our recommendation: Indus or Al Rehman Biryani are classic starting points for anyone embarking on the biryani spectrum.
You can't ever have enough chaat
For those seeking a burst of tangy and spicy flavours, Karachi's chaat is a must-try. This street food sensation is a medley of crispy, fried dough, boiled potatoes, chickpeas, yoghurt, tamarind chutney, and an assortment of spices. The result is a collision of textures and tastes that dance on the palate.
From the historic Empress Market to the vibrant Saddar area, street vendors offer a variety of chaat options, each with its unique twist on this beloved snack. A warm cup of chai is the perfect pair for chaat.
Our recommendation: A common favourite among Karachi residents is Khatri chaat, located in Clifton.
Warm plate of Nihari
Karachiites take their breakfast seriously, and one of the city's most cherished morning traditions, apart from Halwa Puri, is indulging in a plate of nihari. This slow-cooked stew consists of tender pieces of meat, usually beef or mutton, cooked overnight with a mix of spices until it reaches melt-in-the-mouth perfection. Nihari is often enjoyed with naan, and garnishes such as green chillies and ginger, and is known for its rich broth that warms both body and soul.
Our recommendation: Zahid and Javed Nihari are often referred to as Karachi’s iconic nihari spots; no matter which part of the city you are situated in, everyone is always willing to make the trip.
The good ol' mithai
Karachi boasts a vibrant sweets scene that caters to those with a sweet tooth, or even without! Whether it's the delicate rose-flavoured gulab jamun, the milky richness of ras-malai, or the intricate layers of gajar ka halwa, the city's sweet offerings are a testament to its culinary finesse.
The bustling marketplace of Saddar, often referred to as the heart of Karachi, is known for its traditional mithai shops, where locals and visitors alike can satisfy their cravings.
Our recommendation: S. Abdul Khaliq in Clifton, which has been around since the 1830’s is one mithai shop that never fails to disappoint and as a bonus, they also serve halwa puri, which makes it the perfect Sunday morning trip.
Street style
Karachi's iconic foods extend beyond formal dining establishments. The city's streets are a treasure trove of street food stalls that offer an array of delectable treats. From the crispy and flavorful Silverspoon rolls to the scrumptious Nursery Bun Kebabs, street food in Karachi is an experience that transcends taste; it allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the city.
Our recommendation: BURNS ROAD! If you are someone who visits the city every few years, you must head towards the old city to truly enjoy the offerings.
Karachi's culinary landscape is a reflection of its diverse culture, history, and people. The city's iconic foods have transcended generations, and they continue to be a source of comfort, celebration, and unity for residents and visitors alike.
From biryani to nihari, these foods embody the essence of Karachi's spirit and its ability to bring people together through the universal language of food. So, whether you're exploring the city's busy streets or dining at a high-end restaurant, be sure to savour the flavours that make Karachi's cuisine truly iconic.
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