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The Covid-19 pandemic has drastically changed how we live as a society, and affected our consumption patterns as well. ‘Maintain six feet distance’, ‘sanitize regularly’, and ‘wear a mask’ are the mantras that we have all adapted to as a way of life now. But these changes aren’t confined to individuals. From schools and shopping malls to offices and eateries, a lot of what was commonplace, has had to change. Lahore, known for its food and views, has taken the most advantage of this and completely transformed the food landscape by introducing outdoor dining options all throughout the city.
In this blog we will talk about the silver lining of this change, i.e. dining out in Lahore against the backdrop of chilly winter evenings, and glimmering lights. All cafes and restaurants are now offering dining out options and here are best picks that you should definitely try before winter ends.
Cafes in Gulberg, Lahore
Lahore’s Gulberg area is the locality of all that is trending in fashion, culinary, and the arts. It is the place you need to go all seasons to see the coolest options that this city has to offer, and has one of the finest restaurants. It comes as no surprise then that this place was the first to adapt to outdoor dining when the SOPs were issued. Now, let’s take a look at the best options you should choose from.
MM Alam Road is Lahore’s one-stop destination for all things related to shopping, dining, and entertainment. People throng to this commercial hub for their everyday needs, and also to enjoy festivities. The place is host to a number of exclusive boutiques, designer outlets, and exquisite cuisines. And now with the coronavirus pandemic, you’ll see people lining outside of the cafes, in the open spaces and enjoying all the best food options from desi to continental.
The top picks from this commercial arena are: Aylanto, the best of Italian cuisine, Wasabi, the house of Japanese food, Freddy’s where you can find the best Rosemary Chicken, and Salt n Pepper that serves everything in their hi-tea and buffet.
As the evening dawns, almost instantly like magic, the landscape of the MM Alam changes. As all cars rush out of the locality, the eateries find a relative calm with all the passersby resorting to find comfort in food. All the parking spaces which we could have never imagined being this radiant, develop a world of their own. The chilly weather with fairy lights dotting the landscape, and the coal fire is an ode to the great outdoors that is perfect for these winter nights.
A little off MM Alam, you’ll find Yum Chinese and Thai which serves the best Chinese food in the city, and these days is using its outdoor lawn for seating. The tall trees, rose bushes, and light music playing in the background offers the best combination with food that you will absolutely love!
Mall One’s mini food street is where all the youngsters are headed to these days. It is a place always buzzing with activity and was one of the first food streets to offer a nice outdoor seating arrangement as well as inhouse dining. They didn’t have much to do to adapt to the change, except for now accommodating more customers. You’ll find here all continental options; Chinese and Thai, steaks, sticky Japanese rice, Lebanese cuisine, and salads that will introduce you to a host of new flavours. If you want to try something new, other than desi, this is the food street you should go to. Another interesting feature is its in-car dining option! If you are wary of catching the infection, you can enjoy your meal in the comfort of your car as well.
Cafes in Defence Y Block, Lahore
Now this place is considered to be the MM Alam of Lahore Defence as it has the same energy and offers a wide variety of food, shopping, and entertainment options to choose from. Nestled in between houses, and facing a park, is a small food street that promises big food portions, even bigger on flavours. Here you’ll find Amavi Patisserie that offers gourmet food, Thanda Garam that’s pretty big on their hot and cold beverages, Grab Your Meal that gives healthy eating options, and Uncle Tetsu that is famous for its jiggly cheesecake. Previously, all customers would be cramped up inside these little eateries, but now you get to experience the same food outside.
This particular street is nestled in a quiet neighbourhood, and you’ll be surrounded by nothing but calm and aroma of your delicious food. In the twinkling lights and underneath the shining stars, this place is perfect for all people looking for a quiet getaway and a warm meal.
Opposite Y Block, just on the other side of the road is Z Block, which has Yum Chinese and Thai, English Tea House, Bundu Khan, Gourmet Grill, Cafe Aylanto and Chaaye Khana. These all are also offering outdoor dining options, and promising the same flavours that have made them famous.
Darvesh Food Souk, Lahore
This is situated on main Burki Road, opposite to Paragon City. Located in an unpopulated area, miles away from the city noise, this place is the quintessential outdoor dining street that offers both comfort and fun! There is one tea and food souk by the name of Dervesh Food Souk which was the first eatery here, and has given this place its name. But over the past two years this place has seen many additions from Charsi Tikka and Tawa Chicken to the best margharita pizza. You’ll also find a host of chai options and gulab jamuns that are always such a treat in winters!
These were our top picks for dining out options in Lahore. Remember, when you visit, maintain social distancing, wear a mask at all times, and sanitize your hands regularly! We want you to have fun but also stay safe while doing so.
Let us know of any more exciting places we should put on our list by writing to us at blog@zameen.com, and keep visiting Zameen Blog for more informative pieces about property, lifestyle and tourism.
