My Food Journey Of 10 Days In Islamabad

 During my recent ten-day visit to Pakistan, I decided to explore the culinary scene in Islamabad by visiting several renowned restaurants. Due to the prevailing inflation crisis, the value of the dollar was high, prompting me to initially opt for the most expensive eateries. Throughout the first week, I indulged in breakfast from one establishment, lunch from another, and dinner from yet another. Additionally, I paid visits to various bakeries, despite not being particularly fond of Pakistani desserts, simply for the sake of enjoyment. To alleviate any potential stomach issues, I made use of Pepto-Bismol.

Given my family's affinity for oriental and exotic cuisine, we have made it a priority to travel and sample food from around the world. Consequently, I resolved to experience the diverse cuisine offered by Islamabad's new restaurants. To my surprise, however, I found myself unable to consume more than a few bites and ended up leaving much of my meals untouched. Astonishingly, I spent over $2000 solely on exploring these new dining establishments. The exorbitant prices led me to question how Pakistani people could afford such dining experiences for their entire families. Nonetheless, the restaurants were consistently packed with patrons, who not only spent substantial amounts on their meals but also tipped the waitstaff with just 10-100 rupee bill.

When my brother-in-law realized that I had not enjoyed the food at any of the aforementioned establishments, he took me to a kabab place in the F-10 Markaz area. At this small eatery, they exclusively served kabobs. To humor my brother-in-law, I took a small piece of kabob from the bag, only to find myself devouring the entire bag of kabob within 20 minutes. It was an absolutely divine culinary experience at such a small dhaba kind of place.

On our way back, we made a stop at a newly built mosque in Shah Ala Ditta village for prayer. In the basement of the mosque, there was a small shop where my brother-in-law purchased cholay chicken and bhunna hua qeema, along with a variety of naans, for dinner. I surmised that the shop catered to the laborers in the vicinity. As it was my last night in Pakistan, I had initially decided against further culinary experiments. Nevertheless, when the food was served on the table, I couldn't resist. To everyone's surprise, I devoured two naans along with a generous portion of the meal. Again heavenly food....

Although I have refrained from mentioning the names of the expensive restaurants, it is worth noting that the taste of the food was rather ordinary, with the emphasis placed primarily on the ambiance and presentation. In contrast, when dining at exotic restaurants in the United States, the focus is typically on the taste, making it impossible to resist indulging, basicallywe paying high prices for the high quality and best tastes. Pakistan boasts a rich culture and an incredible variety of cuisines, making it somewhat perplexing as to why there is a tendency to emulate foreign culinary traditions rather than celebrating their own exceptional cuisine. It seems that anyone with some savings opens a restaurant in pursuit of profit and business. Italian, Arabian, and Chinese eateries are ubiquitous, regardless of where one looks. In recent years, as the restaurant industry has expanded and competition has increased, there has been a greater focus on creating unique and visually appealing dining spaces. This can be attributed to various factors, including the influence of global dining trends, the rise of social media, and the desire to attract a younger, more cosmopolitan audience. Restaurant owners and chefs recognize the importance of creating an inviting and Instagram-worthy atmosphere that complements the dining experience but lost the quality and rich taste. 

If you have a discerning palate and a wealth of knowledge, I highly recommend exploring the charming old desi restaurants that steadfastly adhere to their traditional styles and cooking methods. Regrettably, these establishments are not typically the high-end, expensive restaurants. However, they remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the authenticity of their cuisine.

By venturing into these culinary time capsules, you will be treated to an immersive experience that showcases the true essence of Pakistani gastronomy. These cherished establishments have faithfully upheld their time-honored recipes and cooking techniques, resulting in dishes that brim with the rich flavors of tradition.

While these old desi restaurants may not boast opulent decor or cater to modern trends, they compensate for that with their unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional taste and quality. From savoring the smoky delights of tandoori dishes to indulging in aromatic biryanis and tantalizing curries and kababs, each bite will transport you to the heart of Pakistani culinary heritage. While they may not occupy the spotlight, these establishments offer an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into the diverse flavors and culinary legacy of Pakistan. Embarking on a culinary journey through these old desi restaurants is sure to reward you with an unforgettable and authentic dining experience.

Nadia Nizam