Gulbahar Centre Food Court

The Gulbahar Centre Food Court sits on the upper floors of the Gulbahar shopping centre in the Shahr-e Naw district of Kabul, Afghanistan, one of the city's best-known multi-storey malls. The food court is a convenient refuelling stop for shoppers and office workers, serving Afghan dishes and fast food from a row of small counters that share a common seating area.

Kebab rolls, a street-food style wrap of grilled meat, salad and sauce in flatbread, are the best-known order and a popular grab-and-go meal. Mantu, the steamed dumplings with minced meat topped with yoghurt and tomato sauce, offer a heartier choice, and bolani, the thin fried flatbread filled with potato or leek, is an inexpensive snack or vegetarian option. Fast-food counters add burgers, fried chicken and fries, and fresh juices and tea are sold at several stalls.

The atmosphere is casual and functional, with plastic seating, shared tables and moderate noise that peaks at lunch and after the evening prayer when families visit. Dress is casual and modest. There are no reservations; visitors order and pay at individual counters, and many diners take food away.

Prices are in the $ band, making this one of the cheapest cooked meals available in the district. The food court is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, slightly earlier than some competing malls. The centre has entrance security checks, so visitors should allow extra time and carry identification. Because conditions in Kabul can shift quickly, current travel advisories should be checked and transport arranged in advance.