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    Nawabish: A Culinary Oasis in Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi

    Written by: Hurmat Majid
    Posted on: January 29, 2024 | | 中文

    Different dishes at Nawabish

    Nestled in the heart of Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi, Nawabish stands as a beacon for those seeking an exquisite blend of Turkish and desi cuisine. In a city where diverse culinary experiences often come with mixed reviews, Nawabish emerges as a delightful revelation, providing a gastronomic journey that transcends borders. Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of both Turkish and desi (local) flavors, Nawabish manages to captivate its patrons with a menu that reflects authenticity and innovation in equal measure.

    Upon entering Nawabish, the ambiance strikes a perfect balance between modern sophistication and cultural charm. The restaurant boasts both outdoor and indoor seating areas, each offering a unique setting to enjoy the culinary delights. The outdoor seating provides a refreshing al fresco experience, perfect for those who prefer dining under the open sky, while the indoor section exudes warmth and coziness, making it an ideal choice for intimate gatherings and family dinners.

    The culinary adventure begins with Nawabish's family-sized dinner platter, a masterpiece that echoes the sentiments of a true feast. This platter, reminiscent of the Turkish mixed grill, takes inspiration from beyond borders but adds its own unique twist. Laden with chunks of succulent white-meat chicken, flavorful beef, a spicy Adana kebab skewer, kofte patties, chicken wings, and generous portions of döner kebab, the platter is a carnivore's delight. Accompanied by tomato-tinged chutney, fragrant rice cooked in sock and fresh bread, it transforms into a symphony of tastes and textures that leaves an indelible mark on the taste buds.

    Platter at Nawabish

    The excellence doesn't stop there, for Nawabish's oven-baked pizza is a revelation in itself. Combining the best of Turkish and desi influences, the pizza is a harmonious blend of diverse flavors. The crust is baked to perfection, providing a satisfying crunch, while the toppings showcase the culinary prowess of the chefs. Whether you're a fan of classic margherita or prefer a more adventurous topping like spicy chicken tikka, Nawabish's pizza caters to all palates.

    Oven-baked pizza

    The kebab platter at Nawabish is a testament to the artistry of the grill. Drawing inspiration from the Turkish Kebab House, Nawabish's kebabs are a gastronomic delight. Succulent lamb chops cooked to medium taste, Iskender kebab bathing in a hearty tomato sauce, and breast-meat kebabs that melt in the mouth; each item on the platter is a testament to the commitment to quality and authenticity.

    The Kebab Platter

    No desi culinary experience is complete without the iconic chicken karahi, and Nawabish does justice to this classic dish. The rich, flavorful karahi at Nawabish is a celebration of spices, bringing together the essence of desi cuisine in a single pot. The tender chicken pieces, infused with the aromatic blend of spices, create a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.

    The outside seating area at Nawabish

    As a perfect conclusion to the culinary journey at Nawabish, one must indulge in traditional tea. Served in classic Turkish-style cups, the desi chai is a refreshing and aromatic finale to the meal.

    One of the standout features of Nawabish is its commitment to providing great value for money. The family-sized dinner platter, laden with a variety of meats and accompaniments, not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers ample portions that make it a cost-effective choice for families and groups. The diverse menu, ranging from kebabs to pizza and traditional desi dishes, ensures something for everyone, making Nawabish an inclusive and welcoming dining destination.

    The staff at Nawabish adds another layer to the overall dining experience. Their hospitality and attentiveness create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the pleasure of dining. From the moment the patron steps in, the staff's commitment to ensuring a delightful experience is evident, making Nawabish not just a restaurant but a culinary sanctuary.

    In conclusion, Nawabish in Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi, stands as a shining example of a culinary oasis that seamlessly blends Turkish and desi flavors. The outdoor and indoor seating areas, coupled with hospitable staff, contribute to an overall dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Nawabish not only exceeds expectations but also sets a new standard for Turkish and desi cuisine in Karachi. For those seeking an exceptional culinary journey, Nawabish is a must-visit destination that promises satisfaction, value for money and a gastronomic adventure like no other.


    As the new year begins, let us also start anew. I’m delighted to extend, on behalf of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and in my own name, new year’s greeting and sincere wishes to YOULIN magazine’s staff and readers.

    Only in hard times can courage and perseverance be manifested. Only with courage can we live to the fullest. 2020 was an extraordinary year. Confronted by the COVID-19 pandemic, China and Pakistan supported each other and took on the challenge in solidarity. The ironclad China-Pakistan friendship grew stronger as time went by. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor projects advanced steadily in difficult times, become a standard-bearer project of the Belt and Road Initiative in balancing pandemic prevention and project achievement. The handling capacity of the Gwadar Port has continued to rise and Afghanistan transit trade through the port has officially been launched. The Karakoram Highway Phase II upgrade project is fully open to traffic. The Lahore Orange Line project has been put into operation. The construction of Matiari-Lahore HVDC project was fully completed. A batch of green and clean energy projects, such as the Kohala and Azad Pattan hydropower plants have been substantially promoted. Development agreement for the Rashakai SEZ has been signed. The China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future has become closer and closer.

    Reviewing the past and looking to the future, we are confident to write a brilliant new chapter. The year 2021 is the 100th birthday of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. The 100-year journey of CPC surges forward with great momentum and China-Pakistan relationship has flourished in the past 70 years. Standing at a new historic point, China is willing to work together with Pakistan to further implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, connect the CPEC cooperation with the vision of the “Naya Pakistan”, promote the long-term development of the China-Pakistan All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with love, dedication and commitment. Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan said, “We are going through fire. The sunshine has yet to come.” Yes, Pakistan’s best days are ahead, China will stand with Pakistan firmly all the way.

    YOULIN magazine is dedicated to promoting cultural exchanges between China and Pakistan and is a window for Pakistani friends to learn about China, especially the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is hoped that with the joint efforts of China and Pakistan, YOULIN can listen more to the voices of readers in China and Pakistan, better play its role as a bridge to promote more effectively people-to-people bond.

    Last but not least, I would like to wish all the staff and readers of YOULIN a warm and prosper year in 2021.

    Nong Rong Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
    The People’s Republic of China to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
    January 2021