10 Afghan-owned restaurants around London
Craving Afghan food? We don’t blame you. With it’s rich, delicious, and aromatic offerings, Afghan cuisine is unique with some resemblances to Iranian, Pakistani and Indian cooking, but in an entire class of its own. From the infamous Qabuli pulao – a delicious rice and lamb dish, to Bolani – stuffed fried flatbreads, and plenty of vegetarian options, you’re sure to find some of your favourites at these Afghan-owned restaurants around London, or to discover something completely new!
Halal status: All restaurants below serve halal meat and do not serve alcohol.
Watan serves as a restaurant and catering service for traditional Afghan food. It’s great for a meal with family and friends. They have locations in Southall and Ilford and also offer a takeaway service.
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Ariana features a diverse menu with a blend of Persian and Afghan cuisine. They have a wide variety of options, with the starters menu featuring plenty of vegetarian dishes. This family friendly restaurant is located in Mile End.
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Balkh serve traditional Afghan cuisine with a wide range of options such as kebabs, koobideh, pilau, biryani and more. This restaurant stands out for us because they have traditional sheeryakh (Afghan ice cream) made right in front of you to add that unique element to your experience! Balkh Restaurant is located in Harrow.
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In the heart of West Hendon, Kabul Sheeryakh offers traditional ice cream and desserts on the go. Currently takeaway only.
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5. Ariana II
Ariana II offers a full array of traditional Afghan dishes at their Kilburn restaurant, where you can eat in or takeaway. Their Qabuli pulao is a must, and you can pair it with a dough (homemade yoghurt) drink or one of their fresh juices.
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6. WataniBox
Keeping it super simple, WataniBox has all your Afghan traditional and comforting favourites, in a box. All items are made fresh daily and you can collect your order in Ilford or have it delivered within East London only.
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7. Namak Mandi
If you fancy experiencing what may be the largest naan you’ve ever seen, hang from a holder placed in front of you, Namak Mandi is where you want to go. A short walk from Tooting Bec station, Namak Mandi specialises in Pashtun cuisine and is one of the few restaurants in London to do so.
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Authentic Afghan and Persian cuisine served at Zaytoon Restaurant in Cricklewood. The dine-in atmosphere is exceptional and the menu will leave you spoilt for choice.
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Authentic Afghan cuisine in this no frills restaurant in Leytonstone. Primarily a takeaway, but don’t let that fool you – the food is delicious, portion sizes are generous and they also offer catering services.
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Da Village pride themselves on serving the best kebabs in Reading and offer Afghan grill cuisine. This would be great for a casual meal or a takeaway.
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What other Afghan restaurants around London have you tried? Share your favourites with us in a comment below!