Afghanistan is a country with a long and complex history, shaped by trade routes, empires, and diverse ethnic groups. One of the strongest reflections of this cultural diversity can be found in Afghan cuisine. Food in Afghanistan represents hospitality, tradition, and regional identity. Across the country’s key provinces, restaurants serve not only as places for meals but also as cultural spaces where traditions are preserved and shared.

 

 

Restaurants in Kabul

As the capital and largest city of Afghanistan, Kabul has the most developed and diverse restaurant culture in the country. It offers traditional Afghan dining as well as international cuisines, serving locals, tourists, and diplomats.

 

  1. Sham Restaurant, Kabul 

Sham Restaurant in Kabul offers a warm and authentic atmosphere inspired by traditional Afghan culture and local architecture. With wooden details and yurts, handmade carpets, and carefully chosen local elements, the decor reflects the spirit of Afghan hospitality. Combined with quality food and a calm, welcoming environment, Sham Restaurant has become a favorite dining spot for both locals and international visitors. 

 

  1. Barg Continental Restaurant

Barg Continental Restaurant is a popular dining destination in Kabul that combines Afghan and international cuisine. The menu features traditional Afghan dishes such as kebabs, pilaf, and salads, along with selected Western meals. The restaurant’s modern interior design, mixed with Afghan artistic elements, creates a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Barg Continental is known for its attentive service and spacious seating, making it suitable for business meetings, family dining, and social gatherings.

 

  1. Bukhara Restaurant

Bukhara Restaurant is widely recognized for its authentic Afghan food and cultural atmosphere. Located in the Qowai Markaz area, the restaurant features traditional Afghan décor that reflects the country’s heritage. Its menu includes various kebabs, aromatic rice dishes, and slow-cooked lamb and chicken prepared with traditional spices. The restaurant’s hospitality and cultural presentation make it an important representation of Afghan cuisine in Kabul.

 

  1. Sufi Mahal Restaurant

Sufi Mahal Restaurant is located in the Taimani area of Kabul and focuses strongly on traditional Afghan cuisine. The menu includes classic dishes such as Kabuli Pulao, grilled kebabs, and a variety of vegetarian options. Open daily from 10 AM until late at night, Sufi Mahal is a preferred destination for tourists and locals seeking an authentic Afghan meal in a culturally rich environment.

 

  1. Ziyafat Restaurant

Ziyafat Restaurant, situated in Shahre Naw, is known for offering traditional Afghan food prepared with fresh ingredients. Its menu includes local and international dishes. The restaurant is also recognized for its Afghan hospitality and lively atmosphere.

 

 

Restaurants in Herat

Herat is one of Afghanistan’s oldest cities and a major center of art, history, and culture. Its restaurants reflect strong regional traditions and a community-oriented dining culture.

 

  1. Fifty Fifty Restaurant

Fifty Fifty Restaurant offers a mix of Afghan and Western food, including pizzas and fast food options. It is known for its large outdoor space and gazebo seating, which creates a relaxed environment, especially during spring and summer evenings. The restaurant attracts young people and families who come to socialize and enjoy affordable meals. While the food quality is moderate, the atmosphere and setting make it a popular social destination in Herat.

 

  1. PARMIS Luxury Restaurant

PARMIS Luxury Restaurant is one of the most famous restaurants in Herat. It features a large garden, outdoor family seating, and an extensive menu. Popular dishes include kubideh, Kabuli Pulao, Doogh Mahali, Kabob Poshty, and Arabic cuisine. PARMIS remains one of the better dining options in Herat due to its variety, portion sizes, and peaceful environment.

 

  1. Mawlana Restaurant

Mawlana Restaurant in Herat is a popular local spot known for serving authentic Afghan cuisine. The restaurant features a traditional and classic decor, offering guests a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy flavorful kebabs, traditional dizi, and a variety of local dishes, accompanied by tea or natural dinks. It is an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience the true taste and style of Afghan dining. Many guests praise both the quality of the food and the warm, inviting environment. 

 

  1. Sham Herat Restaurant

Sham Herat Restaurant is located on Martyr Mirvais Sadeq Road and specializes in western Afghan culinary traditions. The restaurant serves kebabs, Kabuli Pulao, and regional specialties prepared using traditional cooking techniques. Known for its generous portions and friendly service, Sham Herat is popular among both residents and visitors seeking authentic local food.

 

  1. Dunyai Kabab Restaurant

Nestled in the lively heart of Herat, Dunyai Kabab is a local gem where the aroma of perfectly grilled kebabs fills the air. Just minutes from the city’s main streets and cultural landmarks, it offers visitors an authentic taste of Afghan cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting. From succulent kebabs to traditional stews,, every dish reflects the rich flavors of Herat, making Dunyai Kabab a favorite. 

 

 

Restaurants in Mazar-i-Sharif

Mazar-i-Sharif is an important religious and cultural center in northern Afghanistan, and its restaurants reflect the region’s culinary traditions.

 

  1. Bilal Restaurant

Bilal Restaurant is well known for serving high-quality traditional Afghan food, including kebabs and Kabuli Pulao. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and friendly service, making it suitable for tourists visiting the city’s historical and religious sites. It is open from early morning until late evening.

 

  1. Mazar Pizza

Mazar Pizza is a popular restaurant that combines international dishes with Afghan hospitality. Open daily from 7 AM to 11 PM, it serves a variety of pizzas alongside traditional Afghan meals. The use of fresh ingredients and the welcoming environment make it a preferred choice for families and travelers.

 

  1. Mansoor Restaurant 

Mansoor Restaurant is a well-known local dining spot, offering a modern decor and a selection of traditional Afghan dishes. The restaurant is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. 

 

  1. Ehsan Palov 

Ehsan Palov specializes in Afghan rice dishes and operates mainly during lunchtime, from 11 AM to 3 PM. The restaurant is particularly famous for its polov (rice) dishes, prepared using traditional methods. Its focused menu and friendly service make it a respected local dining spot.

 

  1. Balkh e Bastan Restaurant

Balkh e Bastan Restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Afghan dishes in a lively local environment. The restaurant’s cultural décor, generous portions, and attentive service make it popular among both locals and tourists.

 

 

Restaurants in Kandahar

Kandahar’s culinary culture is strongly associated with meat-based dishes and bold, traditional flavors.

 

  1. Afghan Dubai BBQ

Afghan Dubai BBQ specializes in Afghan and Middle Eastern barbecue dishes. The restaurant is known for grilled meats, kebabs, and traditional rice dishes such as Kabuli Palaw. It is considered one of the top local dining spots in Kandahar.

 

  1. Shahid Shinwari Restaurant

Shahid Shinwari Restaurant is famous for Shinwari-style cooking, which emphasizes the natural flavor of meat using minimal spices. Popular dishes include mutton karahi, chopan kebab, tikka, and Kabuli Pulao. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and drive-through services and is popular among families and groups.

 

  1. Zaytoon Restaurant

Zaytoon Restaurant is located near Ghazi Park and operates 24 hours a day. It serves halal Afghan and Middle Eastern food and offers both dine-in and takeout options. Its continuous service makes it a convenient choice for locals and travelers.

 

  1. Pizza Point Restaurant

Pizza Point Restaurant offers a combination of pizza and Afghan dishes. Known for its fresh ingredients and friendly service, the restaurant provides a casual and welcoming environment suitable for families and tourists.

 

  1. AL BAIK Restaurant

AL BAIK Restaurant is well known for fast food options, especially fried chicken and rice dishes. It offers dine-in and takeout services and is popular for its quick service and consistent quality.

 

 

Restaurants in Bamyan

Bamyan is known for its natural beauty and calm environment, and its restaurants reflect this peaceful atmosphere.

 

  1. Silk Road Restaurant

Silk Road Hotel Restaurant is located by the riverside and serves Asian, Japanese, and Afghan cuisine. The restaurant offers scenic views, high-quality food, and professional service, making it one of Bamyan’s most popular dining destinations.

 

  1. Gholghola Restaurant

Gholghola Restaurant focuses on traditional Afghan dishes such as kebabs, stews, and Kabuli Pulao. The restaurant also offers beautiful views of Bamyan’s landscape, enhancing the overall dining experience.

 

  1. Ay Khanum Restaurant

The restaurant is a full dining establishment that focuses on local cuisine and regional specialties. Its warm atmosphere, traditional food preparation, and cultural importance make it a significant dining destination for tourists seeking authentic Bamyan cuisine.

 

  1. Shahan Restaurant

Shahan Restaurant offers classic Afghan meals such as kebabs, Roosh, rice dishes, Mantu and Ashak and fresh bread. It provides a welcoming atmosphere and traditional hospitality.

 

  1. Gazelle Restaurant

Gazelle Restaurant serves both local Afghan cuisine and pizza options. The restaurant offers spacious seating and private rooms for groups and solo travelers, making it a comfortable and flexible dining option in Bamyan.

 

 

 

The restaurants across Afghanistan’s key provinces demonstrate the country’s deep cultural roots, hospitality, and culinary diversity. From traditional Afghan meals to international dishes, these establishments provide insight into local traditions and regional identities. Together, they show that Afghan cuisine is not only about food but also about culture, history, and community.

 

 

Let’s Go Afghanistan Team