The essential dishes
- Nihari — the signature slow-cooked beef stew, best at breakfast.
- Paya & siri — rich trotter and head curries, a Lahori institution.
- Karahi & charga — wok-cooked mutton/chicken and whole fried chicken.
- Kebabs — seekh, chapli and gola kebabs from the BBQ streets.
- Haleem — slow-cooked wheat, lentils and meat.
- Halwa puri — the classic weekend breakfast.
Explore each on the Lahore food guide.
Where to eat it
The old city — Gawalmandi and Fort Road Food Street under the floodlit Badshahi Mosque — is the heart of Lahori cuisine. A guided food tour is the easiest way to taste widely and safely.
Dietary needs
Vegetarians are well catered for (see the vegetarian guide), all meat is halal, and mild-spice options are always available on request.
Frequently asked
What food is Lahore famous for?
Nihari, karahi, paya, BBQ kebabs, haleem and halwa puri, plus sweets like jalebi and kulfi. Lahore is considered Pakistan's food capital.
Is Lahori food very spicy?
It can be rich and spicy, but heat is easily adjusted u2014 just ask for mild, and many dishes are gentle by default.