Whether you are buying your first plot in Lahore, selling a flat in Karachi, or simply holding a property as an investment, one thing is certain: taxes will affect your bottom line. Pakistan’s property tax system has undergone significant changes in recent years, and understanding it thoroughly is no longer optional; it is essential.

This guide covers every type of property tax in Pakistan for FY 2026–27, including rates for filers, late filers, and non-filers, province-wise differences, exemptions most people do not know about, and costly mistakes you must avoid.

What Is Property Tax in Pakistan?

Property tax in Pakistan is not a single tax. It is a collection of multiple levies imposed at different stages of property ownership, buying, selling, and holding by both the federal government (through FBR) and the provincial governments. Each tax has its own rate, authority, payment timeline, and adjustability rules.

Understanding which tax applies at which stage and to whom can save you lakhs of rupees.

The Three Stages of Property Taxation in Pakistan

Before diving into individual taxes, here is the big picture:

Stage 1 — Buying: You pay Advance Tax under Section 236K plus Stamp Duty, Registration Fee, and Capital Value Tax.

Stage 2 — Selling: You pay Advance Tax under Section 236C plus Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on profit.

Stage 3 — Holding: You pay Urban Immovable Property Tax (UIPT) annually. (Section 7E, previously charged here, was abolished effective July 1, 2026.)

Most competitors only cover the buying and selling stages. Holding costs are equally important for investors, and we cover them in full below.

1. Section 236K (Advance Tax on Purchase of Property)

Section 236K is the advance income tax collected from the buyer at the time of property transfer. It is deducted by the registering authority, DHA, LDA, Sub-Registrar, or housing society, before the property is transferred to your name.

Under the Finance Act 2026-27, effective July 1, 2026, Section 236K was converted from a tiered rate structure to a single flat rate of 1.5% of the property’s FBR-notified value, payable by the purchaser at the time of transfer.

For detailed current rates, see our Property Tax Rates in Pakistan guide.

2. Advance Tax on Sale — Section 236C (Seller’s Tax)

When you sell a property, you pay advance income tax under Section 236C. This is collected by the Sub-Registrar at the time of the sale transaction. Like 236K, this is an adjustable tax for filers.

Section 236C (Advance Tax on Sale of Property)

Under the Finance Act 2026-27, effective July 1, 2026, Section 236C was converted from a tiered rate structure into a single flat rate of 2.75% of the property’s sale value, collected from the seller at the time of transfer.

Exemption most people overlook: Finance Act 2025 grants a full exemption from Section 236C on the sale of one property, provided all three of these conditions are met:

• The property was in the seller’s personal use for the last 15 years.
• It was declared in the seller’s wealth statement under Section 116 for the last 15 years.
• It appears as the seller’s residence in official tax records.

This is a significant exemption that most sellers do not know about or fail to document properly. If your property qualifies, consult a tax advisor before your next transfer.

3. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) — Tax on Your Profit

CGT is charged on the profit you earn from selling a property not on the full sale price. This is an important distinction. If you bought a plot for Rs. 80 lakh and sold it for Rs. 1.2 crore, CGT applies only to the Rs. 40 lakh gain.

CGT rules changed fundamentally on July 1, 2024. The system now works differently depending on when you acquired the property.

Properties acquired BEFORE July 1, 2024 (old regime):

Properties acquired ON OR AFTER July 1, 2024 (new regime):

What this means for investors: If you bought a property file before June 30, 2024, and hold it for 6 years, you owe zero CGT. For any property purchased after that date, you will pay 15% on profit regardless of how long you hold it. This is one of the most investor-relevant changes of recent years, and it is underreported in most blogs.

Also note: The 236C advance tax you paid as a seller is offset against your CGT liability. If your 236C payment exceeds your CGT due, you can claim a refund by filing your annual return.

Use our Property Tax Calculator to estimate your CGT liability instantly.

4. Withholding Tax (WHT) on Rental Income

If your property generates rental income, that income is subject to Withholding Tax. This is separate from the transaction taxes above and is paid annually.

WHT Rates on Rental Income (FY 2026–27):

Rental income is taxed on an accrual basis in Pakistan meaning it is taxable when it is earned, not necessarily when it is received. This catches many landlords by surprise, particularly those with tenants who pay late or in arrears.

5. Stamp Duty

Stamp duty is a provincial, non-adjustable transaction tax paid on the official sale deed at the time of property registration. Because it is non-adjustable, it cannot be reclaimed through your annual tax return — it is a final cost.

Province-wise Stamp Duty Rates:

Stamp duty on property sales in Islamabad Capital Territory is currently charged at 2% of the DC-notified value, in addition to a separate 1% registration fee. This is distinct from the CDA transfer fee, which was reduced separately.

6. Registration Fee and PLRA Fee

Registration fees are paid to the provincial land authority at the time of property transfer. In Punjab, this includes a separate PLRA (Punjab Land Records Authority) fee:

• PLRA Fee: Rs. 3,300 flat for properties up to Rs. 3 million, then 0.1% on the value above Rs. 3 million.
• Corporation Fee (Punjab): 1% of property value, payable to the local Municipal Corporation or District Council.

These small charges add up quickly on high-value transactions and are rarely mentioned in tax guides.

7. Capital Value Tax (CVT)

CVT does not apply uniformly across Pakistan. Its application varies by territory: Islamabad Capital Territory has its own CVT framework, while Sindh administers CVT under separate provincial legislation.

Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa do not levy a CVT on immovable property transfers, relying instead on stamp duty. Separately, under the Finance Act 2026-27, CVT was abolished on foreign movable and immovable assets held by resident Pakistanis, effective July 1, 2026.

8. Urban Immovable Property Tax (UIPT) — Annual Holding Tax

UIPT is the annual property tax charged by provincial governments simply for owning property in an urban area. Even if your property is not rented out, you owe this tax every year. It is calculated on the Annual Rental Value (ARV) — a government-assessed estimate of what your property could earn in rent.

UIPT Rates by Province:

Punjab’s 2025 reform most guides have missed: From January 1, 2025, Punjab moved from rental-value-based to DC rate (capital value) based assessment. From July 1, 2025, all UIPT in Punjab is assessed and collected using DC rates. This is a fundamental shift that affects every property owner in the province. Additionally, new taxpayers in Punjab get a bonus — they pay only 25% of their total tax for the first six months, with a 50% discount on any old dues.

UIPT Exemptions (Punjab):

• Residential houses on plots smaller than 5 Marla (except in Category A high-end areas).
• Properties with annual rental value below Rs. 4,320.
• Single owner-occupied houses with ARV not exceeding Rs. 6,480.
• Properties owned by widows, minor orphans, or disabled persons where annual tax does not exceed Rs. 12,150.
• Retired government servants owning and occupying one residential house up to one Kanal.

Payment tip: A 5% rebate is available if you pay your UIPT in full on or before September 30 of the financial year. A 1% per month surcharge applies for late payment after that date.

9. Section 7E Deemed Income Tax – Abolished

Section 7E previously imposed a deemed income tax on the fair market value of immovable property above a specified threshold, and required a clearance certificate before a property could be transferred. This provision no longer applies. On May 7, 2026, Pakistan’s Federal Constitutional Court declared Section 7E void ab initio.

The Finance Act 2026-27 subsequently removed Section 7E from the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, effective July 1, 2026. Property transactions on or after this date are not subject to Section 7E, and no 7E clearance certificate is required for transfer.

10. Map / Naqsha Penalty (Punjab Only)

This is a hidden cost unique to Punjab that almost no blog covers. If the registered map (Naqsha) of a property is not available at the Sub-Registrar’s office at the time of sale, a 2% penalty on the property’s value is charged. The penalty is completely waived if the Naqsha is presented. This means a Rs. 1 crore property sale without a Naqsha costs an extra Rs. 2 lakh unnecessarily. Always verify your property’s map status before initiating any sale.

Adjustable vs. Non-Adjustable Taxes: A Critical Distinction

One of the most practically useful things to understand about Pakistan’s property tax system is which taxes you can recover and which you cannot.

Adjustable Taxes (recoverable by filers)

Section 236K, Section 236C, Capital Gains Tax. These are advance tax payments. When you file your annual income tax return, you can offset what you paid against your final tax liability. If you paid more than you owe, you can claim a refund.

Non-Adjustable Taxes (final costs, non-recoverable)

Stamp Duty, Registration Fee, PLRA Fee, Corporation Fee, Capital Value Tax. These are one-time transactional costs. You cannot reclaim them, regardless of your filer status.

This distinction is the single biggest advantage of being an active filer. Not only do you pay lower rates, you can also recover what you paid through your annual return.

Filer vs. Non-Filer: The Real Cost Difference

The filer rates shown below (1.5% / 2.75%) reflect Finance Act 2026-27, effective July 1, 2026. Non-filer and late-filer rates under the new flat-rate structure had not yet been confirmed via updated FBR notification as of this writing; filer rates are the only figures confirmed at the time of publication.

On a Rs. 1 crore property purchase, a non-filer pays Rs. 12 lakh in advance tax versus Rs. 1.5 lakh for an active filer. The difference is Rs. 10.5 lakh — enough to furnish an entire home.

See our detailed guide on real estate investment in Pakistan.

Province-Wise Property Tax Summary

Special Rules for Overseas Pakistanis

Overseas Pakistanis holding a NICOP or POC are entitled to pay property taxes at filer rates under Sections 236C and 236K — even if they are not registered on the Active Taxpayers List — provided they follow the correct procedure through FBR’s portal. Many overseas Pakistanis are unaware of this and pay non-filer rates unnecessarily, overpaying by millions on high-value transactions.

To qualify, the registering authority verifies your POC or NICOP number on FBR’s portal before generating the payment slip. If you are an overseas Pakistani buying or selling property, confirm this process with your housing society or Sub-Registrar before the transaction date.

Key Changes in Budget 2025–26 at a Glance

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Declaring a lower property value than the actual sale price. FBR compares your declared value against both the DC rate and the FBR valuation rate, and uses whichever is higher. Under-declaring does not save tax — it creates penalties and legal exposure.
• Assuming non-filer taxes are recoverable. They are not. For non-filers, Section 236K and 236C are final taxes. Becoming a filer before your transaction is the only way to make them adjustable.
• Missing the September 30 UIPT deadline. You lose the 5% early payment rebate and start accumulating a 1% per month surcharge.
• Not checking your filer status before a transaction. Even if you filed your return, late filers are treated differently than active filers and pay significantly higher rates. Check your ATL status on the FBR website before any property deal.

Quick Reference: All Property Taxes at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a non-filer buy property in Pakistan?

Non-filers face restrictions on purchasing property above certain value thresholds under recent Finance Acts. When permitted, they pay substantially higher tax rates — up to 18.5% under Section 236K — making registration as a filer the strongly advisable step before any significant purchase.

Are property taxes the same across all provinces?

236K, 236C, and CGT are federally uniform. CVT is not — it varies by territory (see the CVT section above).

What is the difference between DC rate and FBR rate?

The DC (District Collector) rate is set by the provincial government and is used for stamp duty and some UIPT calculations. The FBR rate is set by the Federal Board of Revenue for advance tax purposes. Tax authorities use whichever is higher for calculating your tax liability.

Is inherited property taxable?

Property inherited from a deceased family member is generally exempt from Section 236C and CGT at the time of inheritance. However, if you later sell that inherited property, standard CGT and 236C rules apply based on the sale price and your filer status.

How do I pay UIPT in Punjab?

You can pay online through the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department portal or at designated National Bank of Pakistan branches using a Challan form. Remember, paying before September 30 earns you a 5% rebate.

Final Word

Pakistan’s property tax system rewards compliance and punishes evasion, often very expensively. Becoming and staying an active filer is the single most impactful financial decision any property owner or investor can make. The tax savings on a single transaction can easily exceed what a professional tax consultant charges for a full year of service.

For more information on real estate investing tips, please visit Chakor.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was a prominent religious scholar and political leader of Iran. He served as the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic for decades. His leadership shaped Iran’s political direction and religious identity. Many followers viewed him as a symbol of resistance and faith. His influence extended beyond national borders into the wider Muslim world.

He combined religious authority with political power. This made him one of the most consequential figures of modern Middle Eastern history.

His Martyrdom and the Concept of Martyrdom

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was martyred on 28 February 2026 during a foreign air strike that targeted his location in Tehran amid heightened regional tensions and military escalation as per international media.

Throughout his life, Khamenei had openly embraced the idea of martyrdom. He often stated that he did not fear death in the path of faith. He described martyrdom as a divine honor granted to those who remain steadfast in their beliefs. His speeches frequently emphasized sacrifice, resistance, and devotion to higher principles.

In Islam, martyrdom holds profound spiritual significance. It is rooted in the example of Imam Husayn and the tragedy of Karbala. Imam Husayn R.A’s stand against injustice is seen as the ultimate model of courage and moral clarity. 

For many of his supporters, the circumstances of his death reflected the very ideals he had long spoken about. They saw it as a continuation of the tradition of sacrifice in defense of faith, justice, and sovereignty.

Early Years, Rise to Power, and Political and Religious Ideology

Early Life and Education

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was born in 1939 in Mashhad, Iran. He grew up in a religious family. His father was a cleric known for his simple lifestyle. From childhood, he studied the Quran and Islamic sciences.

He later continued his education in the seminaries of Mashhad and Qom. In Qom, he studied under respected scholars. These formative years shaped his discipline and worldview. He developed a lasting interest in Islamic philosophy and political thought.

Opposition to the Shah

During the 1960s and 1970s, Iran was ruled by the Shah. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei became active in religious and political opposition. He supported the idea of Islamic governance. He spoke against Western influence in Iran.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was arrested several times. He experienced prison and close surveillance. These hardships strengthened his resolve. They also increased his reputation among revolutionaries. He believed that religion should guide political authority.

Role After the 1979 Revolution

The 1979 Revolution transformed Iran’s political structure. The monarchy was replaced by an Islamic Republic. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei quickly gained senior roles within the new system.

In 1981, he became president. His presidency took place during the Iran-Iraq War. The country faced economic and military pressure. This period shaped his approach to security and resistance.

Becoming Supreme Leader

In 1989, the founding Supreme Leader passed away. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was selected as his successor. This marked a decisive turning point.

As Supreme Leader, he became the highest authority in the state. He oversaw the armed forces and major institutions. He guided both political and religious affairs. His leadership would last for decades.

Political and Religious Ideology

Khamenei supported Islamic governance led by a senior jurist. He believed religious law should shape society. He emphasized moral discipline and cultural preservation.

He strongly promoted national independence. He opposed foreign interference in Iranian affairs. He viewed resistance as essential to sovereignty.

Supporters saw him as a guardian of Islamic values. Critics argued that his leadership centralized power. His ideas deeply influenced Iran’s direction and identity for many years.

Solidarity and Unity

Throughout his leadership, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei frequently called for unity among Muslims. He encouraged cooperation across nations and communities. He stressed shared faith over division.

His speeches often focused on dignity, resistance, and collective strength. Supporters across different regions expressed solidarity with his vision. Many viewed unity as both a spiritual and social responsibility.

Moments of crisis often became occasions for renewed calls for togetherness. These expressions reflected a belief that faith binds communities beyond borders.

Concluding Thought on Faith and Steadfastness

The life of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reflects the powerful relationship between belief and leadership. His journey showed how faith can shape political action and national identity.

For supporters, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei legacy represents steadfastness in the face of challenge. It highlights patience, conviction, and commitment to principle. Regardless of differing perspectives, his influence remains part of contemporary history.

For more information, visit Chakor Ventures.

Islamabad isn’t just known for its modern architecture and serene landscapes; it’s also home to a lively and flavorful street food scene that every food lover should explore. From bustling food street in Islamabad to popular market corners buzzing with vendors, the city offers an exciting mix of traditional Pakistani snacks and contemporary street eats that satisfy every palate.

Whether you’re strolling through Melody Food Street, sampling wraps and kebabs in F-10 Markaz, or discovering hidden stalls in local markets, the best street food in Islamabad reflects the city’s diverse tastes and rich culinary culture. This guide highlights the best food street in Islamabad and the must-try dishes that make the city a must-visit destination for foodies.

List of Best Street Food in Islamabad

Name	Address	Contact	Approx. Rating	Cuisine Type	Menu Highlights
Basti The Food Street	Golra Rd, Golra E-11, Islamabad	+92 311 1828222	4.7	Asian / Casual eats	Street-food style bites, grills, and local snacks
Melody Food Park	1 Street 5, G-6/3, Islamabad	–	4.0	Mixed (Street food court)	Kebabs, rolls, chaat, drinks
Capital Food Street	Islamabad (food court zone)	+92 341 9695038	4.1	Food court / Street eats	Assorted street food vendors
Butt Karahi By Usman Tahir	Service Rd E, F-10 Markaz, Islamabad	+92 306 0666605	4.6	Pakistani	Karahi, curries, naan
Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House	Madina Market, Street 21, F-8/2	+92 51 2280302	4.2	Barbecue / Grill	Tikka, chargha, grilled meats
STREET EATS i‑10 Markaz Islamabad	I-10 Markaz, Islamabad	+92 335 9988880	4.3	Fast food / Street	Wraps, fast bites, drinks
Abey KHAO!	Bhittai Rd, F-7 Markaz	+92 307 0509115	4.8	Fast food / Casual	Burgers, fries, snacks
Hanif Rajput Rooftop Grill	PAK CHINA Mall, Markaz G-9	+92 317 7770989	4.3	Grill / Casual	BBQ, grilled meats
Howdy Islamabad	Street 3, Gol Market, F-7/3	+92 51 2611182	4.5	Fast food / Casual	Burgers, fast bites
Savour Foods, Blue Area, Islamabad	Fortune Plaza, Jinnah Ave, Blue Area	+92 51 2348097	4.3	Pakistani Rice & Street eats	Tikka rice, karahi, quick eats

Basti The Food Street in Islamabad

Located in the E-11/Golra area, this open-air food hub recreates the lively feel of a traditional Pakistani food street. Visitors come for sizzling BBQ, karahi, and freshly baked naan served straight from tandoors. The atmosphere is social and energetic, making it ideal for long evening hangouts. It’s especially popular with families and groups who want variety in one place.

Melody Food Park – Food Street in Islamabad

One of the capital’s most iconic food streets, Melody is packed with small eateries and street-style vendors. You’ll find chaat, samosas, bun kebabs, biryani, and plenty of quick desi comfort food. The setting is busy, casual, and perfect for food hopping. Its central location makes it a favourite with students, office workers, and tourists alike.

Abey KHAO!

Situated in F-7 Markaz, this spot mixes street-food energy with modern fast-food flair. Known for loaded fries, juicy burgers, and flavorful wraps, it’s a hit with younger crowds. The menu leans toward indulgent comfort food with bold sauces and spices. It’s an easy stop while exploring the lively F-7 market.

Melody Restaurant

Close to the main Melody Food Park area, this restaurant offers a calmer sit-down experience while keeping you near the street food buzz. Guests enjoy classic Pakistani dishes served in generous portions. It’s a good choice when you want traditional flavours without standing at outdoor stalls. Many visitors pair it with dessert or chaat from nearby vendors.

Deaflicious

A small but well-liked eatery in F-6 Markaz known for quick snacks and sandwiches. While not a full food street, it fits nicely into a street-food crawl through Islamabad’s market areas. It’s the kind of place you stop at for an easy bite between shopping stops. Simple food and a relaxed vibe make it a convenient addition to your list.

Capital Food Street – Food Street in Islamabad

This is a handy “many options in one place” destination where you can sample different street-style foods in a single visit. It works well for groups since everyone can choose their own favourite dishes. Expect BBQ, rolls, burgers, and desi snacks in a lively, casual setting. Come hungry so you can try more than one stall.

Butt Karahi By Usman Tahir

A popular stop in the F-10 Markaz area for rich, traditional Pakistani meals with street-side appeal. It’s best known for karahi dishes cooked in bold spices and served with fresh naan. This is a great place to pause for a hearty, sit-down meal during a food tour. Dishes are ideal for sharing family-style.

Bismillah Tikka & Chargha House 

 

A favourite for grill lovers craving tikka, chargha, and smoky BBQ platters. Meals here focus on pairing tender meats with naan, chutneys, and salads. It’s a strong evening street food in Islamabad for your BBQ cravings. Perfect for those who prefer savoury, protein-rich street flavours.

STREET EATS i-10 Markaz Islamabad

A practical stop in I-10 Markaz for quick, satisfying street-style fast food. You’ll typically find wraps, burgers, fried snacks, and cold drinks. It’s more of a grab-and-go place than a sit-down destination. Great for a casual bite while exploring the market.

Hanif Rajput Rooftop Grill

Known for BBQ nights and generous grill platters, this spot offers street-food flavours in a more relaxed dining environment. Kebabs, tikka, and handi dishes are popular choices for sharing. It’s ideal for groups who want to sit, eat, and chat rather than stand at stalls. Plan it as a dinner stop after lighter snacks.

Howdy

A well-known name for burger fans in Islamabad, especially around F-7. Though more of a fast-food joint than a street stall, it’s often included in street-food-style food runs. People come for hearty burgers, fries, and filling comfort meals. A reliable option when you want something familiar and satisfying.

Savour Foods

A classic choice for a quick, filling desi meal that’s easy on the wallet. Best known for rice plates paired with chicken and signature sauces, it’s simple and satisfying. This works well as a “main meal” break between snack stops. Many people opt for takeaway, but dine-in is available too.

Conclusion

From every buzzing food street in Islamabad to hidden market gems, the city serves unforgettable flavours. Explore the best street food in Islamabad and discover why the food streets in Islamabad are a must-visit for every food lover.

Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital city, is home to a variety of restaurants offering an authentic and diverse range of Desi cuisine. Whether you’re craving the comforting flavors of a traditional Pakistani breakfast, aromatic biryanis, or sizzling BBQ platters, Islamabad has it all. Here’s a guide to the best desi food restaurants in Islamabad, featuring some must-try spots where you can enjoy the rich and diverse tastes of Desi culinary heritage.

List of Best Desi Restaurants in Islamabad

Here are the best desi restaurats in Islamabad

 

Name	Location	Must-Try Dishes	Ratings	Website				Contact
Chattha’s	F-10/2 (Tariq Market)	Halwa Puri Nashta, Daal Makhni	N/A	No Website				(051) 8444637
Dilli Darwaza	F-8/1	Nihari, Mughlai Dastarkhawan dishes	N/A	https://dillidarwaza.com/				0315 1587752
Khoka Khola	Beverly Centre, Blue Area	Makhni Karahi, Chicken Cheese Naan	4.2/5	https://restaurant.khokakhola.com/				(051) 8444929
Des Pardes	Saidpur Village	Tikka Boti, Reshmi Seekh Kababs	4.0/5	No Website				(051) 2320009
Melody Food Park	G-6 Markaz	Chicken Karahi, Bihari Kebabs	4.0/5	No Website				No Contact Number
Chikachino	F-11 Markaz	12 varieties of Tea, Desi Snacks	3.9/5	No Website				0300 7883325
Bismillah Tikka	F-8/2 (Madina Market)	Seekh Kabab Karahi, Naans	4.2/5	No Website				(051) 2280302
Tandoori Restaurant	F-10 & G-8	Palak Paneer, BBQ	4.3/5	https://tandoorirestaurants.pk/				(051) 2105566
Hot and Chilli	F-10/3	Roll Parathas (200+ flavors), Chilman Biryani	N/A	No Website				(051) 2100011
Usmania Restaurant	Blue Area (G-6/2)	BBQ Platters, Soft Naans	3.8/5	No Website				(051) 2873245
Salt’n Pepper	F-6	Pakistani & Continental individual deals	N/A	http://www.saltnpepper.com.pk/				(051) 2604911
Haleem Ghar	Blue Area (G-7/2)	Haleem, Brain Masala, Chicken Tikka	4.1/5	https://www.haleemghar.com.pk/				(051) 111 425 336
Bar B.Q. Tonight	Blue Area (G-6/3)	BBQ Platters, Grilled Meats, Kebabs	4.1/5	https://islamabad.barbqtonight.com/				(051) 8317132
Savour Foods	Blue Area (G-7/2)	Murgh Pulao, Pulao Kabab, Chicken Roast	4.4/5	https://order.savourfoods.com.pk/				(051) 2348097
Khiva Revolving Restaurant	Bahria Town	Buffet with savory and sweet dishes	N/A	No Website				(051) 2650263
Habibi Restaurant	I-8 Markaz	BBQ Platters, Karahi, Mutton Ribs	4.1/5	No Website				(051) 4448222
Charsi Tikka	I-8 Markaz	BBQ, Tikka	N/A	No Website				0333 5477717
Chilman Restaurant	G-9 Markaz	Haandi, Biryani, Karahi	4.1/5	No Website				(051) 2284646
Rewayat Restaurant	G-11 Markaz	BBQ Platters, Karahi, Chutney	N/A	http://rewayat.com.pk/				(051) 111 227 000

 

1. Chattha’s

Location: F-10/2 (Tariq Market)

Chattha’s is perfect for anyone craving a hearty traditional breakfast. Known for its delicious Halwa Puri Nashta and Daal Makhni, this cozy spot serves authentic Pakistani breakfast and lunch options.

Webiste: No Website

Facebook: Chatta’s

Instagram: @chattasteacompany

2. Dilli Darwaza

Location: F-8/1

Dilli Darwaza – best restarant in Islamabad – transports you to the Mughal era with its rich Nihari and Mughlai dishes. The ambiance, adorned with Mughal portraits, enhances your experience of authentic Mughlai cuisine.

Website: https://dillidarwaza.com/

Facebook:Dilli Darwaza

Instagram: @dilli.darwaza

3. Khoka Khola

Location: Beverly Centre, Blue Area

Khoka Khola offers a vibrant dining experience with its nostalgic Bollywood music and tasty Pakistani street food, including Makhni Karahi and Chicken Cheese Naan, all served in a cozy setting.

Website: https://restaurant.khokakhola.com/

Menu: Beverly Menu

Facebook: Khoka Khola Cafe

Instagram: @khokakola_cafe

4. Des Pardes

Location: Saidpur Village

Nestled in Saidpur Village, Des Pardes offers a peaceful ambiance with stunning views of the Margallas, making it a great spot to enjoy traditional BBQ dishes like Tikka Boti and Reshmi Seekh Kababs.

5. Melody Food Park

Location: G-6 Markaz

Melody Food Park is a lively food street with over 20 eateries. From Chicken Karahi to Bihari Kebabs, it offers an excellent selection of flavorful and affordable Desi food in a casual environment.

6. Chikachino

Location: F-11 Markaz

For tea lovers, Chikachino serves 12 varieties of tea along with Desi snacks. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy a hot cup of chai, and savor snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.

Website:  No website

Facebook: Chikachino

Instagram: @chikachino

7. Bismillah Tikka

Location: F-8/2 (Madina Market)

Bismillah Tikka specializes in Seekh Kabab Karahi and freshly baked Naans, offering a laid-back, open-air dining experience perfect for those craving flavorful grilled food.

Website: No Website

Facebook:  Bismillah Tikka and Chargha House

Instagram: No Account Found

8. Tandoori Restaurant

Location: F-10 & G-8

Tandoori is famous for its comforting Palak Paneer and sizzling BBQ. With two locations in Islamabad, it’s perfect for family meals in a cozy setting, with rich traditional flavors.

Website: https://tandoorirestaurants.pk/

Menu: Desi Menu

Facebook: Tandoori Restaurant

Instagram: @tandoorirestaurant

9. Hot and Chilli

Location: F-10/3

Hot and Chilli offers a vast menu with over 200 flavors of Roll Parathas and Chilman Biryani. Its innovative take on traditional street food has made it a favorite for adventurous eaters.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Hot n Chilli

Instagram: No Account Found

10. Usmania Restaurant

Location: Blue Area (G-6/2)

A beloved spot for its tender BBQ platters and soft Naans, Usmania is a great choice for enjoying hearty Pakistani food in a casual and laid-back atmosphere.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Usmania Restaurant

Instagram: No Account Found

11. Salt’n Pepper

Location: F-6

Salt’n Pepper offers a fusion of Pakistani and continental dishes. Known for its great variety and delicious individual deals, it’s an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Website: http://www.saltnpepper.com.pk/

Menu: Desi Menu

Facebook: Salt’n Pepper

Instagram: @saltnpepperisb

12. Haleem Ghar

Location: Blue Area (G-7/2)

Specializing in rich Haleem and other traditional comfort foods, Haleem Ghar offers a homely dining experience with flavorful dishes like Brain Masala and Chicken Tikka.

Website: https://www.haleemghar.com.pk/

Menu: Desi Menu

Facebook: Haleem Ghar

Instagram: @haleemghar

13. Bar B.Q. Tonight

Location: Blue Area (G-6/3)

Bar B.Q. Tonight is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts, offering an extensive menu of grilled meats and Kebabs. The laid-back atmosphere and excellent service make it a popular dining destination.

Website: https://islamabad.barbqtonight.com/

Menu: Desi Menu

Facebook: Bar BQ Tonight

Instagram: @barbqtonight

14. Savour Foods

Location: Blue Area (G-7/2)

Famous for its Murgh Pulao and Pulao Kabab, Savour Foods is a popular budget-friendly restaurant that offers generous portions of traditional Pakistani food.

Website: https://order.savourfoods.com.pk/

Menu: Desi Menu

Facebook: Savour Foods Pakistan

Instagram: @savourfoodspk

15. Khiva Revolving Restaurant

Location: Bahria Town

Khiva offers a unique buffet-style experience in a revolving setting, allowing guests to enjoy a 360-degree view of Islamabad while savoring a selection of both savory and sweet dishes.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Khiva Revolving

Instagram: No Account Found

16. Habibi Restaurant

Location: I-8 Markaz

Habibi Restaurant is known for its generous BBQ platters and Karahi. With an inviting ambiance and delicious food, it’s perfect for enjoying hearty traditional meals with family or friends.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Habibi Restaurant

Instagram: @abouthabibi

17. Charsi Tikka

Location: I-8 Markaz

Famous for its succulent BBQ and Tikka, Charsi Tikka offers a rustic dining experience that’s perfect for those craving flavorful grilled meats in a relaxed setting.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Charsi Tikka

Instagram: @charsitikka

18. Chilman Restaurant

Location: G-9 Markaz

Chilman Restaurant specializes in Haandi and Karahi, offering a cozy ambiance and exceptional service. Their food is consistently flavorful, making it a great choice for family-style dining.

Website: No Website

Facebook: Chilamn Restaurant

Instagram: @chilman.pk

19. Rewayat Restaurant

Location: G-11 Markaz

Rewayat serves BBQ Platters, Karahi, and Chutney, offering a vibrant dining experience with traditional Desi decor and truck art, perfect for a flavorful Pakistani meal.

Website: http://rewayat.com.pk/

Menu: Desi Food

Facebook: Rewayat

Instagram: @rewayat.pk

Conclusion

Islamabad’s food scene is a paradise for Desi food lovers, offering a wide range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. From traditional Mughlai delicacies to spicy BBQ platters and comforting Desi breakfasts, the city’s restaurants deliver an authentic experience of Pakistani flavors. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for a family meal, a vibrant street food experience, or a fine-dining destination, these best desi restaurants in Islamabad provide an exceptional culinary journey.

Next time you’re in the city, make sure to visit these spots and savor the true taste of Pakistan. Each restaurant offers its own unique charm, ensuring that your taste buds are treated to the best that Desi cuisine has to offer. So, gather your friends and family, and embark on a flavorful adventure through the heart of Islamabad’s Desi food scene!