We Sialkotis are always judged (well, mostly) based on our famous sense of humor, quick wit and sarcasm. Humor and sarcasm is something we pick up as we grow up.
Along with our sharp tongues, most of us have extreme taste buds as well. We love to eat local ‘thelay wali chaat’, and ‘frozen gola’ from the streets. We are true foodies in my opinion, seldom afraid of trying new things and appreciating good street food.
As I make my way home every month or two (I am an army officer, visiting home is a rarity!), there are some places in my hometown that I cannot resist visiting. I will tell you about two that have been a part of my life since they opened. Any pocket money I had growing up (and even the first pay I was ever given) was spent on these two items. Let me introduce them to you:
Al-Mashoor Chaat
Now, most Sialkotis, especially ‘chatkhoray’ Sialkotis, know the worth of this food joint, which literally translates to ‘famous chaat’. It has been around for the last 18 years, and are well known (as their name rightly suggests) for their varieties of chaats.
Their Dahi Bhalay are one of the best I have tasted in Pakistan, rivaled only but their contemporaries in Lahore. Their magic is in their chutney (sauce). It is said that all their food items are solely dependent on the unique taste of their chutney. Their best item is easily their Cream Chaat, followed by their Fruit Chaat.
They add yogurt in the Fruit Chaat, and serve it with their special chutney. The Cream Chaat is made with fruits as well as dry fruits, and is very popular here in Sialkot.
Gujranwala Ice Cream and Falooda
So these guys have been around for around nine years, and have made a big name for themselves within the Sialkoti foodie community. Why? because they have some pretty unique ice creams on offer.
Their most loved item is Falooda, which isn’t like regular Falooda at all. It contains Khoye and noodles, yes, but there’s no Kulfa involved! Instead, it contains two scoops of their ice cream, which they say has a secret recipe.
The also have fantastic Badaam Doodh (almond flavored milk). It costs Rs90 for a bottle, and I’m willing to bet you’ll chug it down in one gulp – its that tasty!
I really do hope you’ll try both of these the next time you’re in my hometown!
