Introduction
Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural capital, pulses with history, vibrancy, and culinary excellence. At its heart lies Royal Swiss Lahore, an ultra-luxury gem under the prestigious Royal Swiss brand of Swiss International Hotels & Resorts. Within this 5-star haven, Dastar Khwan shines as a culinary masterpiece, serving traditional Pakistani cuisine with live cooking stations and a sophisticated ambiance. A favourite among Pakistani celebrities, this restaurant captivates families, couples, and business travellers alike. With over 50 years of Swiss hospitality expertise, Royal Swiss Lahore invites you to savor Lahore’s finest at Dastar Khwan. Join us to explore this dining experience, nearby attractions, and tips for an unforgettable visit.
The Royal Swiss Brand: Ultra-Luxury Redefined
Royal Swiss, the pinnacle of Swiss International Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio, is synonymous with bespoke luxury for discerning travellers. This premium sub-brand blends state-of-the-art facilities with Swiss precision, offering authentic, personalized services in a refined environment. Royal Swiss Lahore embodies this ethos, delivering unparalleled elegance and Pakistani warmth. Excitingly, the brand is expanding with three upcoming ultra-luxury hotels in Pakistan: Royal Swiss Gulberg Lahore (opening in December 2026), Royal Swiss Islamabad (opening in December 2026), and Royal Swiss Rumanza Multan (opening in October 2026). These additions promise to elevate Pakistan’s hospitality scene, offering high-end travellers even more opportunities to experience Royal Swiss’ signature sophistication.
Why Dastar Khwan at Royal Swiss Lahore is a Culinary Gem
Located just 500 meters from Allama Iqbal International Airport, Royal Swiss Lahore is a 5-star masterpiece with 302 luxurious rooms and suites, ideal for business and leisure travellers. Dastar Khwan, its flagship restaurant, redefines fine dining with traditional Pakistani cuisine and continental options. Here’s what makes it exceptional:
- Authentic Pakistani Flavors: Savor dishes like biryani, nihari, and karahi, crafted with traditional recipes.
- Live Cooking Stations: Watch skilled chefs in the open show kitchen, adding a visual spectacle to your meal.
- All-Day Dining: Open from 06:00 to 22:00, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with à la carte or buffet options.
- Celebrity Hotspot: A magnet for Pakistani stars, from actors to cricketers, drawn to its exquisite cuisine and ambiance.
- Swiss-Select Perks: Members enjoy access to the Swiss-Select Lounge for complimentary breakfast and snacks.
Explore dining at Dastar Khwan.
Lahore: A Cultural and Culinary Capital
Lahore, a former Mughal stronghold, blends ancient heritage with modern energy. From majestic mosques to bustling markets, it captivates visitors. Royal Swiss Lahore’s strategic location, a short drive from the city centre, offers proximity to business hubs like Lahore University of Management Sciences (8 km) and cultural landmarks, making it perfect for work or leisure.
Must-Visit Attractions Near Royal Swiss Lahore
Enhance your stay with these nearby attractions:
- Badshahi Mosque (16 km): A Mughal-era marvel, ideal for cultural immersion.
- Lahore Fort (19 km): A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing architectural grandeur.
- Jiliani Park (20 km): A serene green space for family outings or relaxation.
- Packages Mall (14 km): A modern shopping hub for retail therapy.
- Army Museum (7 km): A fascinating dive into Pakistan’s military history.
Savouring the Dastar Khwan Experience
Dastar Khwan at Royal Swiss Lahore is a culinary celebration of Pakistan’s rich heritage. Open from 06:00 to 22:00, it offers a vibrant setting for all-day dining. Here’s why it stands out:
Traditional Pakistani Cuisine
Dastar Khwan’s menu honours Pakistan’s culinary traditions:
- Biryani: Aromatic rice layered with tender meat, infused with saffron and spices.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked beef stew, rich with bold Flavors.
- Karahi: A spicy, tomato-based dish with chicken or mutton, cooked in a traditional wok.
- Haleem: A hearty blend of lentils, wheat, and meat, slow-cooked to perfection.
- Desserts: End with gulab jamun or kheer for a sweet touch.
The open show kitchen, featuring Cinnamon’s live cooking stations, lets you watch chefs craft these dishes, adding excitement to your meal.
Continental and International Options
Dastar Khwan caters to global tastes with:
- Breakfast: International favourites like croissants and omelets alongside regional parathas and lassi.
- Lunch and Dinner: À la carte options like grilled salmon or pasta, or a diverse buffet with global flavours.
This versatility suits families, international guests, and business travellers.
A Celebrity Magnet
Dastar Khwan’s sophisticated ambiance and impeccable cuisine draw Pakistani celebrities, from film stars to cricket icons. Its prime location and luxurious setting make it a place to see and be seen, adding a glamorous touch to your dining experience.
Perfect for Every Traveler
- Couples: Enjoy a romantic dinner with live cooking displays and intimate vibes.
- Families: The buffet and kid-friendly dishes like naan and butter chicken keep everyone satisfied.
- Business Travelers: Impress clients or unwind with colleagues in style.
Other Dining Delights at Royal Swiss Lahore
Complement Dastar Khwan with these dining venues:
- Parwaaz Roof Restaurant: A chic rooftop spot with international cuisine and city views, open 11:00–22:00.
- Arigato: A Pan-Asian restaurant with sushi, Thai, and Chinese dishes, open 12:30–00:00.
- Swiss Café Leafs & Beans: A bright café with artisanal pastries and premium coffee, open 07:00–22:00.
- MOODS Cigar Lounge: A plush hideaway for cocktails and canapés, open 24 hours.
Swiss-Select Member Benefits
Enhance your stay with the Swiss-Select Loyalty Program:
- Exclusive Rates: Save on bookings via Swiss International’s website.
- Swiss-Select Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary breakfast, drinks, and snacks in a private lounge, open 24 hours.
- Earn Points: Redeem for dining credits or spa treatments.
- Priority Services: Faster check-ins and personalized support.
Tips for a Memorable Dining Experience
Maximize your Dastar Khwan visit with these tips:
- Book Ahead: Dastar Khwan is in high demand, especially on weekends. Reserve via the hotel’s website.
- Explore the Buffet: Sample a variety of Pakistani dishes for a full culinary journey.
- Interact with Chefs: Learn about Pakistani cuisine by chatting with chefs at the live cooking stations.
- Pair Your Meal: Request beverage pairings, like lassi with spicy dishes or coffee from Swiss Café Leafs & Beans.
- Host Events: Plan private dinners or corporate lunches in Dastar Khwan’s vibrant setting.
Travel Alert: Lahore’s rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–8 PM) can cause delays. Plan your visit to Dastar Khwan with extra time if traveling from the city center.
Lahore’s Luxury at Royal Swiss
Royal Swiss Lahore, a flagship of the Royal Swiss brand, offers unmatched luxury with:
- Inspirations Swimming Pool: A refreshing retreat for families or relaxation.
- Inspirations Spa: Rejuvenate with wellness treatments.
- Inspirations Gym: Stay active with cutting-edge equipment.
- Retail Boutiques: Shop for premium Asian apparel and accessories.
Its proximity to Lahore Expo Centre (25 km) and Lahore University of Management Sciences (8 km) suits business travelers, while its cultural allure draws leisure guests.
Conclusion
Royal Swiss Lahore’s Dastar Khwan is a culinary haven, celebrating Lahore’s rich heritage with traditional Pakistani cuisine and global flavors. Loved by celebrities and travelers, this vibrant restaurant, with its live cooking stations, captivates all. With 302 luxurious rooms, diverse dining like Parwaaz Roof Restaurant, and Swiss-Select benefits, Royal Swiss Lahore redefines ultra-luxury. Explore landmarks like Badshahi Mosque and savor Lahore’s essence with Swiss International Hotels & Resorts’ 50-year legacy.