Multan's Culinary Secrets | A Food Lover's Guide to Pakistan's City of Saints

Published: December 15, 2025

Bismillah! Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey to the heart of Pakistan? Then prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure in Multan, a city brimming with history, Sufi traditions, and, most importantly, an astonishingly rich and vibrant food culture. This guide will be your compass, navigating you through the must-try dishes, sharing the intricacies of local dining etiquette, introducing you to unique ingredients, and unveiling fascinating facts about this incredible city. Get ready to savor the flavors of Multan!

A Taste of History: Multan’s Culinary Legacy

Multan, often called the “City of Saints,” isn’t just a place of spiritual significance; it’s also a culinary crossroads. Its strategic location on ancient trade routes has brought diverse influences to its food. For centuries, the city has been a melting pot, absorbing flavors and techniques from various cultures, including Persian, Central Asian, and Mughal. This rich history is evident in every bite of Multani cuisine, a cuisine that marries robust flavors with aromatic spices, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Local Specialties - Your Multan Food Bucket List

Multan’s food scene offers a feast for the senses. Here are some local specialties that will tantalize your taste buds:

Sohan Halwa: The Jewel of Multan’s Sweets

Description: The piece de resistance of Multani sweets, Sohan Halwa is a dense, chewy, and intensely rich confection. Made from wheat germ, milk, sugar, and nuts (typically almonds and pistachios), it is cooked to perfection with ghee (clarified butter). It is a symphony of texture, with a distinctive crumbly exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior, often flavored with saffron and cardamom.
Origin/History: The creation of Sohan Halwa is a labor of love, a skill passed down through generations. The recipe is a closely guarded family secret. It’s a symbol of hospitality and a celebratory treat in Multan.
Where to Find It: Dedicated Sohan Halwa shops, which are found on nearly every street in Multan. Look for shops with a long history – they’re a sure bet for authentic Sohan Halwa.

Multani Chanay: A Spiced Chickpea Classic

Description: A comforting and flavorful dish, Multani Chanay is a simple yet satisfying preparation of chickpeas cooked in a rich, spicy, and aromatic gravy. This dish is typically served with fluffy naan bread or rice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. The secret is the blend of spices and the slow cooking process.
Origin/History: Multani Chanay is a beloved staple, enjoyed by families across the region. Recipes are often passed down through the generations, each family adding its own unique touch.
Where to Find It: Authentic street food stalls and local restaurants, where the locals flock for a hearty and delicious meal.

Balochi Sajji: A Feast for the Senses (and the Appetite)

Description: Though originating from Balochistan, Balochi Sajji is incredibly popular in Multan. It features whole roasted lamb, marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, cooked over an open fire. The meat is incredibly tender and flavourful, with a smoky aroma that’s simply irresistible. It is often served with rice and salad.
Origin/History: Sajji has roots in the nomadic traditions of Balochistan, emphasizing a minimalist approach to allow the natural flavor of the meat to shine. The cooking methods are ancient, using minimal ingredients to enhance the meat’s natural flavour.
Where to Find It: Numerous roadside dhabas (small eateries) and restaurants specializing in barbecue and grilled dishes on the outskirts of the city.

Mutton Karahi: A Fiery Curry Sensation

Description: This is a robust and flavorful mutton (goat or lamb) curry cooked with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, chilies, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s cooked in a karahi, a deep, wok-like pan, imparting its unique flavor. This dish packs a punch of heat, making it a favorite for those who love spicy food.
Origin/History: Karahi-style cooking is widespread in Pakistan. The spices used are central to Pakistani cuisine.
Where to Find It: Restaurants specializing in Pakistani cuisine often serve it in a karahi for sharing.

Multani Phirni: A Silken Rice Pudding

Description: A creamy and delicate rice pudding, Multani Phirni is a light and refreshing dessert made with milk, rice, sugar, and a hint of cardamom. It’s often served cold and garnished with nuts and rose petals. It provides a soothing contrast to the bolder, more savory dishes.
Origin/History: Phirni is enjoyed at celebrations and special occasions, such as Eid. It provides a cooling contrast to the richer dishes.
Where to Find It: Dessert shops and restaurants, especially during the cooler months.

Shahi Tukray: Royal Bread Pudding

Description: A sweet, rich and indulgent dessert. Shahi Tukray is made from fried bread soaked in sweetened milk, typically topped with nuts and a dusting of saffron.
Origin/History: ‘Shahi’ means royal. This dessert is often served at weddings and special occasions.
Where to Find It: Sweet shops or specialized dessert cafes.

Dining Etiquette: Eat Like a Local in Multan

Immersing yourself in the local dining culture enhances your experience. Here are some important etiquette tips:

Tipping: Tipping is customary, though not always required. If satisfied with the service, a 10-15% tip is considered polite, especially in restaurants that cater to tourists. Hand the tip directly to the waiter.
Greetings: When meeting someone, especially if invited to their home, greet them with “Assalam-o-Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and a handshake. Politeness and eye contact are always appreciated.
Sharing: Sharing food is a common practice. Dishes are frequently served in the center of the table. It’s perfectly acceptable to take from communal platters; just ask before taking a large portion.
Table Manners: Use your right hand for eating, as the left is considered unclean. Avoid touching food or passing things with your left hand. Wait until everyone is served before you start eating.
Pace of Dining: Meals can be leisurely; don’t rush. Enjoy the conversation and company. Take cues from local diners.
Appropriate Attire: Dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Modest clothing is recommended. Wear a scarf or shawl when visiting religious sites.
Getting Attention: A gentle hand wave or eye contact will usually suffice. Avoid snapping your fingers or shouting.

Key Ingredients That Define Multani Flavors

The secret to Multani cuisine lies in its unique ingredients:

Ghee (Clarified Butter): Used extensively for cooking and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
Cardamom (Elaichi): Used to flavor desserts, teas, and savory dishes.
Coriander (Dhaniya): Fresh coriander leaves are used as a garnish and a key ingredient in spice blends (masalas).
Red Chilies: A fundamental ingredient used to add heat to the dishes.

5 Facts You Might Not Know About Multan

Multan is renowned as the “City of Saints,” due to the numerous Sufi shrines and tombs that dot the landscape.
The city’s rich history dates back to ancient times and has been ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Greeks, Persians, and Mughals.
Multan is celebrated for its distinctive handicrafts, including blue pottery, camel skin lamps, and embroidered textiles.
The city experiences a hot and arid climate, with scorching summers and mild winters.
Multan is a significant agricultural center, producing cotton, wheat, and mangoes, particularly the renowned varieties of mangoes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food in Multan

Are restaurants generally child-friendly? Yes, most restaurants are child-friendly and welcome families.

Can I find vegetarian options? Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian options.

Is it safe to eat street food? It is generally safe to eat street food, but choose vendors with high hygiene standards. Opt for freshly prepared, hot food. If unsure, stick to reputable restaurants.

What are the best ways to get around Multan? Taxis, auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks), and ride-sharing apps are available. Negotiate fares beforehand with taxis and auto-rickshaws, or use ride-sharing apps.

Are there any festivals related to food? While there are no specific food festivals, communal meals are often part of events like Urs celebrations, offering opportunities to sample traditional foods.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Multan

Multan’s culinary scene is a testament to its vibrant history and cultural richness. From the sweet indulgence of Sohan Halwa to the savory satisfaction of Multani Chanay, your taste buds are in for an unforgettable adventure. Embrace the local dining etiquette, discover the unique ingredients, and explore the fascinating history. Ready to experience the culinary delights of Multan? Tell us your favorite Pakistani dish in the comments below!

Bon appétit and Khuda Hafiz!