Islamabad, a captivating blend of modern architecture and rich culinary heritage, offers a paradise for foodies. And for those who crave the melt-in-your-mouth delight of nalli nihari infused into fragrant biryani, the city holds a special treat. Here, we’ll embark on a delicious journey to discover the best nalli biryani purveyors in Islamabad, tantalizing your taste buds and leaving you yearning for more.
Nalli biryani is a symphony of flavors, where succulent pieces of bone marrow (nalli) are slow-cooked in a rich nihari gravy and then layered with aromatic basmati rice. The result? A biryani that’s bursting with flavor, with the tender nalli adding a decadent touch to the fluffy rice. So, are you ready to dig into this flavorful masterpiece? Let’s get started!
Best Nalli Biryani in Islamabad
Butt’s Restaurant:
A legend in Islamabad’s culinary scene, Butt’s Restaurant has been serving mouthwatering dishes for decades. Their nalli biryani is a must-try, featuring perfectly cooked rice infused with the essence of nihari and generously adorned with tender nalli pieces.
Contact Details:
- Address: Shop 1 & 2, Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area, Block G-7/2, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 51 280 5088
Desi Tadka:
This local favorite is known for its generous portions and authentic Pakistani flavors. Their nalli biryani is a star on the menu, boasting perfectly seasoned rice and melt-in-your-mouth nalli pieces simmered in a rich nihari gravy. Don’t forget to try their raita on the side for a perfect cooling touch.
Contact Details:
- Address: Multiple Locations (F-10 Markaz, Melody Market, I-9 Markaz)
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM (may vary by location)
- Contact Number: +92 51 220 3488 (may vary by location)
Haveli Restaurant:
Specializing in Mughlai cuisine, Haveli Restaurant offers a delectable nalli biryani experience. Their take features fragrant rice layered with flavorful nihari and succulent nalli pieces, creating a dish that is both rich and satisfying.
Contact Details:
- Address: Multiple Locations (F-6 Markaz, F-10 Markaz)
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM (may vary by location)
- Contact Number: +92 51 280 5033 (may vary by location)
The Monal Restaurant:
Perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of Islamabad, The Monal Restaurant offers a truly unforgettable dining experience. Their nalli biryani is a crowd-pleaser, featuring aromatic rice infused with the essence of nihari and tender nalli pieces cooked to perfection.
Contact Details:
- Address: Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 51 260 0021
Haveli Bar & Grill:
This upscale restaurant offers a unique take on Nalli Biryani. Their version features a richer gravy with a touch of smokiness, complementing the tender marrow and fragrant rice. Perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
Contact Details:
- Address: 12، Jinnah Ave, Block G-6/2 Blue Area, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 51 280 5041
- Website: https://www.havelirestaurants.com/
Nalli Nihari:
This eatery lives up to its name, specializing in slow-cooked delights. Their Nalli Biryani is a must-try, featuring fall-off-the-bone marrow and fragrant rice cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to try their Nihari, another house specialty, for a complete culinary experience.
Contact Details:
- Address: Shop 1 & 2, Plot 14، Block 7، G-7 Markaz, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 300 846 2274
Charsi Tikka & Karachi Biryani:
While the name suggests a focus on grilled delights, Charsi Tikka & Karachi Biryani shouldn’t be underestimated for their Nalli Biryani. The Karachi-style preparation features a lighter gravy, allowing the inherent flavors of the marrow and rice to shine through.
Contact Details:
- Address: Plot 14-A، Block 7، G-7 Markaz، Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 51 843 2483
Deri Chacha Jee:
Renowned for its generations-old recipes, Deri Chacha Jee serves a legendary Nalli Biryani. The slow-cooked marrow is incredibly tender, while the rice is perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor. Be prepared for long queues, as this eatery is a local favorite!
Contact Details:
- Address: Shop 1 & 2, Block 18-A, Main Market, Shalimar 7/1, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 300 854 0086
Karachi Broast & Biryani:
This Karachi-style restaurant chain offers a delightful rendition of nalli biryani. Their version features a touch of heat from chilies, balanced perfectly by the fragrant spices. The biryani is cooked in a sealed pot, resulting in beautifully tender meat and flavorful rice.
Contact Details:
- Address: Multiple Locations across Islamabad
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 21 3438 1000 (Karachi Head Office)
Nalli Nihari & Biryani:
This restaurant, as the name suggests, specializes in slow-cooked dishes. Their nalli biryani is a slow-cooked masterpiece, where the marrow melts in your mouth and the rice is infused with rich, flavorful gravy. Be prepared for a truly decadent experience.
Contact Details:
- Address: Shop 1 & 2, Block 7, Clifton Market, Block 7 F 7/1, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Contact Number: +92 51 225 0488
A Final Note:
These are just a few of the fantastic places to savor the delightful nalli biryani in Islamabad. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this dish is a true culinary gem. So, embark on your own nalli biryani odyssey in Islamabad, explore hidden restaurants, and discover your own personal favorite!
