Toronto's Pakistani food scene is one of the city's best-kept culinary secrets.

From sizzling karahi served straight from the wok to slow-cooked nihari and fragrant biryani, Pakistani cuisine is rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavours.

We asked Torontonians from different cultural backgrounds where they go when they're craving food from home. When it came to Pakistani cuisine, several restaurants stood out as favourites among the community.

Whether you're discovering Pakistani food for the first time or looking for your next favourite restaurant, these are the places Pakistanis themselves recommend.

Karahi Boys

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https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Karahi+Boys+Toronto

If there was one restaurant that repeatedly came up in the discussion, it was Karahi Boys.

Known for cooking every karahi fresh to order, the restaurant has become one of the most recognizable Pakistani brands in the GTA.

What to Order

Chicken Karahi
Goat Karahi
Garlic Naan
Seekh Kebabs

Why People Love It

Unlike many curries that are prepared ahead of time, a traditional karahi is cooked fresh in a wok-like pan, giving it a rich tomato base and intense flavour.

Watching it arrive sizzling at the table is part of the experience.

Silver Spoon

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https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Silver+Spoon+Toronto

Silver Spoon has built a loyal following for serving authentic Pakistani comfort food at affordable prices.

Many locals consider it one of the city's most reliable spots for everyday Pakistani meals.

What to Order

Chicken Biryani
Haleem
BBQ Platter
Butter Chicken

Why People Love It

The menu offers a wide selection of Pakistani classics, making it a great choice for newcomers who want to sample several dishes in one visit.

Lahore Tikka House

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Lahore+Tikka+House+Toronto

Few restaurants are as iconic in Toronto's South Asian food scene as Lahore Tikka House.

Located in the Gerrard India Bazaar, it has been serving Pakistani cuisine for decades and remains a favourite gathering place for families and visitors alike.

What to Order

Chicken Tikka
Mixed Grill
Butter Naan
Mango Lassi

Why People Love It

The lively atmosphere and generous portions make Lahore Tikka House a Toronto institution.

BBQ Tonite

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https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=BBQ+Tonite+Mississauga

Although technically located in Mississauga, BBQ Tonite received praise from Pakistani commenters who said it's worth the drive.

What to Order

Chapli Kebab
Chicken Malai Boti
Mutton Karahi
BBQ Platter

Sizzler Kabab

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https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Sizzler+Kabab+Toronto

Known for charcoal-grilled meats and generous portions, Sizzler Kabab is another favourite among Toronto's Pakistani community.

What to Order

Seekh Kebabs
Chicken Tikka
Beef Bihari
Naan

Why Toronto Has Great Pakistani Food

Toronto is home to one of Canada's largest Pakistani communities, particularly in Scarborough, Mississauga, Milton, and North York.

Many restaurants remain family-owned, with recipes passed down through generations.

The result is a diverse food scene that ranges from casual BBQ shops to elegant family restaurants specializing in regional Pakistani cuisine.

First-Timer's Guide to Pakistani Food

Not sure what to order?

These dishes offer the perfect introduction.

Chicken Karahi

Freshly cooked chicken in a tomato-based curry with ginger, garlic, and green chilies.

Biryani

A fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat and aromatic spices.

Every restaurant has its own recipe.

Nihari

A slow-cooked beef stew traditionally enjoyed for breakfast but available all day at many restaurants.

Seekh Kebabs

Minced beef or chicken mixed with herbs and spices before being grilled over charcoal.

Haleem

A slow-cooked mixture of wheat, lentils, and meat that's incredibly rich and comforting.

FAQ

What is the best Pakistani restaurant in Toronto?

Based on recommendations from the Pakistani community, Karahi Boys, Silver Spoon, Lahore Tikka House, BBQ Tonite, and Sizzler Kabab are among the most recommended restaurants.

What is the difference between Pakistani and Indian food?

While Pakistani and Indian cuisines share some ingredients and cooking techniques, Pakistani food generally places a stronger emphasis on grilled meats, rich curries like nihari and karahi, and barbecue traditions.

What should I order if I've never had Pakistani food?

Start with chicken karahi, biryani, seekh kebabs, garlic naan, and finish with a cup of traditional Pakistani chai.

Is Pakistani food spicy?

Many dishes are full of aromatic spices, but the level of heat varies. Most restaurants can adjust the spice level upon request.

Final Bite

The best Pakistani restaurants in Toronto are more than places to eat—they're places where traditions, family recipes, and hospitality come together.

Whether you're sharing a sizzling karahi with friends, enjoying smoky kebabs fresh from the grill, or discovering the rich flavours of nihari for the first time, these community-recommended restaurants offer an authentic taste of Pakistan right here in the GTA.