If there’s one smell that defines a Gujranwala evening, it’s charcoal smoke drifting off a roadside grill. This city takes its BBQ seriously — charsi tikka, seekh kebab, and mutton karahi aren’t just menu items here, they’re a whole evening ritual.
1. Chaudhry Charsi Tikka — GT Road
Still the benchmark for charsi tikka in this part of the city. What started as a single roadside tandoor has grown into a full outdoor lounge, but the kitchen still hand-skewers every order rather than pre-grilling in bulk. See the full listing →
2. Bismillah Karahi & Tikka — Civil Lines
The karahi here is cooked the old way — bone-in mutton, a heavy hand with ginger and green chili, and a wok that’s clearly seasoned from decades of use.
Tips for Your BBQ Crawl
- Go hungry, order light first.
- Ask what’s fresh off the grill.
- Weeknights are calmer than Thursday/Friday.
- Bring cash — several smaller stalls don’t take cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is charsi tikka?
Charsi tikka is a Punjabi-style barbecued chicken or mutton dish marinated in a spiced yogurt blend and slow-cooked over charcoal until the outside is charred and the inside stays juicy.