Khoka Khola — Restaurant in Zone 1

Nestled in the heart of culinary excellence, Khoka-Khola in restaurant stands out as a beacon of authentic desi dining. This establishment goes beyond merely serving food; it crafts an immersive experience, combining creative decor, attentive service, and a menu that pays homage to retro-desi cinema with truck and riksha proverbs adorning the walls.

Stepping into Khoka-Khola is like entering a nostalgic realm where every element, from the decor to the music, seamlessly weaves a tapestry of desi culture. The restaurant's commitment to its aesthetic elevates the dining experience, creating an ambiance that is both charming and unique. The retro-desi cinema theme, coupled with truck and riksha proverbs, adds a touch of whimsy, making it a feast for the eyes even before the culinary journey begins.

What truly sets Khoka-Khola apart is the seamless integration of its ambiance with the authenticity of its cuisine. The menu, an extension of the creative motif, takes diners on a journey through traditional flavors presented with a modern twist. The genuineness and sincerity of a home-cooked meal are evident in every dish, making each bite a testament to the chef's dedication to preserving the essence of desi cuisine.

My recent visit to Khoka-Khola was nothing short of extraordinary. The elegant ambiance, marked by retro-chic aesthetics, provided the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure. The staff's attentiveness and expertise enhanced the overall experience, guiding me through the menu and recommending dishes that surpassed expectations. Each dish was a masterpiece, a fusion of exquisite flavors and high-quality ingredients, presented with an artistic flair that showcased the chef's mastery.

While the experience may lean towards the higher end of the price spectrum, the quality of the food, coupled with the overall ambiance and service, justifies every penny spent. Khoka-Khola is not just a restaurant; it's a destination for those seeking a gastronomic escapade that transcends the ordinary.

On the flip side, it's crucial to address constructive feedback. A recent breakfast experience, marked by an unfortunate excess of salt, served as a reminder that even culinary gems have their off days. For those with health considerations like high blood pressure, the salt-laden offerings posed a challenge. The Aloo Qeema, although tasty, fell victim to an excess of salt, as did the lassi and nehari. It's evident that while Khoka-Khola excels in ambiance and service, there's room for improvement in ensuring a balanced flavor profile...

If you're seeking a vibrant and nostalgic dining experience in Islamabad, Khoka Khola is a must-visit. Nestled in the basement of the Beverly Centre in Blue Area, this charming eatery offers an upscale take on traditional Pakistani street food, blending authenticity with a cozy ambiance.

🌟 What Makes Khoka Khola Stand Out

Authentic Desi Cuisine Khoka Khola is renowned for its rich, flavorful dishes that capture the essence of Pakistani street food. Popular items include:

Butter Chicken: Creamy, nutty, and spicy, served with white rice and tandoori roti.

Dost Platter: A hearty combination of chicken biryani, seekh kebabs, and various BBQ items.

Murgh Malai: A creamy chicken dish reminiscent of butter chicken.

Thali: A traditional assortment featuring a meat dish, vegetable, Lahori cholay, raita, salad, and tandoori roti.

Kulfi: Rich, velvety ice cream made from whole milk and topped with crushed nuts.

Nostalgic Ambiance The restaurant's decor evokes memories of classic dhabas, complete with Bollywood tunes from the '60s and '70s playing softly in the background. The seating is cozy, and the atmosphere is lively, making it a perfect spot for casual dining.

Personalized Service Instead of traditional menus, the staff, often the owners themselves, describe the day's offerings in detail, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

💬 Customer Testimonials

Patrons consistently praise Khoka Khola for its delightful food and inviting atmosphere:

"Honestly one of the best breakfast places in Islamabad. They serve everything fresh, and the taste is amazing." — Danyal K

"One of the best food places I've ever visited. The ambiance, the food, the vibe, the service—everything was top-notch." — Johnny

"The ambiance had an old-age charm that made it feel really inviting. It was the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious breakfast." — Ayesha G

🕒 Tips Before You Go

Peak Hours: The restaurant can get crowded, especially during weekends. It's advisable to visit during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times.

Special Dishes: The special dish varies daily, so it's worth asking the staff about the day's unique offering.

Payment: A meal for two typically ranges between PKR 500–1,000, offering great value for the quality and quantity.

📍 Location

Khoka Khola Beverly Centre, Blue Area, Islamabad

Whether you're a local or a visitor, Khoka Khola promises a delightful culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors of Pakistan in a warm,...

"Nostalgic" is the only word to describe this place; specially in a city like Islamabad. A small portion with a theme to recall thousands of memories; overall environment, decor & background music will push you back into the old good days of your childhood. Even the furniture isn't for those who seek comfort & luxuries of the present. I'll not discuss much about staff behavior , menu & cleanliness etc as all these things are well above average and explained many times by others. Let's jump to the main point

What should you expect at Khokha Khola? Nostalgia, old music, soothing and calming effect, old days' Ads of newspapers & PTV, posters & photos of the Pakistani stars who left us. Take Waheed Murad & Sultan Rahi as an example.

Who should visit? A person who wants to spend some time with his old memories. It could be you, or most probably; your parents. Visit this place with your elders & let them allow to step back in their past, it could be a great pleasure for them. Or go there with a partner who's into poetry and literature etc. He/she will like it for sure. Visit this place all alone and enjoy your own company while listening to those nostalgic songs of late Mehdi Hasan, Kishor Kumar & Lata Mangeshkar etc. Recommended for families in my opinion Note: If you're a smoker, there's an open portion for you as well.

Who should avoid it? Teenagers! Please don't go there. If you're planning for a celebration, find another place. In search of comfort &...