The best Pakistani restaurants in Belfast

Located on the Lisburn Road, Archana is a firm favourite among fans of Indian cuisine. Established in 1985, this iconic spot is not only the oldest Indian restaurant in Belfast but also one of the longest established restaurants in the city in general. So, if that doesn’t speak to its quality, then we don’t know what does. With options for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery, Archana uses only the freshest of local ingredients and spices to curate dishes with the rich and authentic flavours of Northern India. All menu offerings are based on the five S’s: spice, sharp, sweet, salty, and sour, so diners are guaranteed a taste sensation when dining here. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and spicy or mild and creamy, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re after.

Located in the picturesque St Anne’s Square, 7 Spice is a brilliant Bangladeshi restaurant that boasts a creative menu, relaxing atmosphere, and friendly hospitality. Infused with modern and creative flair combined with an authentic taste of Bangladeshi cuisine, the team here make the most of authentic Indian spices, combined with flavours from the best in-season ingredients. All food is freshly prepared on the day, so diners can rest assured they are enjoying the very best fresh flavours.

You can choose to enjoy a relaxed and informal dining experience in their bright and spacious dining area or make the most of private dining in one of their seven bespoke pods, which were first born out of social distancing requirements brought in during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mini pods sit two to four people, while larger pods sit groups of six or more, making this the perfect dining experience for all party sizes. When it comes to food you’ll be spoilt for choice. They serve a delightful range of classic Bangladeshi dishes, as well as tandoori, biryani, and their own 7 Spice specialities.

A laidback Indian eatery located in the bustling University Quarter serving a delicious range of noodles, curried meats, biryani dishes, and more, plus a wide range of delicious vegan and vegetarian options, Himalayan Restaurant is a great spot to dip your toes into the delights of Pakistani cuisine. Chef recommendations include a Himalayan Choila, which features your choice of very tender lamb of chicken marinated with fenugreek, green chillies, red onion, spring onion, ginger, garlic, and mustard oil, served with a side of salad and beaten rice.

Alternatively, you can opt for a tasty Jholilo Curry, a traditional Nepalese curry cooked with onions, tomatoes, and Nepalese spices. They also offer a delightful range of tasty tandoori sizzlers, including their special mixed grill, lamb or chicken tikka, boneless chicken shashlik, and more. Fancy something a bit more traditional? No worries. They serve a tasty range of classic curry dishes, including Tikka Masala, Pasanda, Kasmiri, Madras, Korma, Pathia, and more. Iconic Pakistani flavours are highlighted in their range of Biryani dishes, so whether you opt for vegetable, king prawn, chicken, or lamb, your taste buds are sure to be delighted.

Perhaps one of the best-loved Indian restaurants in Belfast, if not the whole of Northern Ireland, Nu Delhi is one you won’t want to miss when it comes to Pakistani dining in the city. Located at the heart of the city on Great Victoria Street (making it extremely handy for those travelling in and out by public transport), Nu Delhi is the perfect place to enjoy a night out in the city, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, just heading out for a catch up with friends, or are enjoying a date night with your significant other.

Diners will have the choice of a great range of delightful menu options, such as a traditional chicken pathia or korma, a tasty chicken or king prawn biryani, and even a special Nu Delhi soul fish curry. A creative and vibrant restaurant with a fun and friendly flair, unrivalled hospitality, and a fantastic menu of cocktails and drinks, you can’t go wrong with a meal here.

An award-winning restaurant with two locations in the city, one on the Lisburn Road and one on the Ormeau Road, Bengal Brasserie has enjoyed over 30 years of business serving the people of Belfast. Offering fine Indian cuisine, including a range of tasty curries with a personal touch, this iconic spot sees diners return time and time again.

Open for both dine in and takeaway, Bengal Brasserie is a fantastic spot for all occasions, whether you’re enjoying a cosy night in or want to get dressed up and make the most of a night out on the town. Signature dishes include their fantastic tender rack of lamb cooked in a clay oven with coriander and mint served with tamarind sauce and a spicy potato and rocket salad, lamb or chicken desi mazadar, chasni, desi bahari, and more. They also serve a delightful range of classic curries, fusion grill, flavourful rice dishes, biryani, tandoori, and more.