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Nazia's Top 5 Breakfasts in Karachi

Disclaimer: By no means do I count myself as an expert on food, but I do love to eat. These restaurants are entirely my choice and by no means have to be agreed with.

1. Bhai Babu's Halwa Puri

If you're craving halwa puri on a lazy Sunday morning, then you better forget about getting anything from Bhai Babu's dukaan. Located in the lane of the very famous Ghaffar's, Bhai Babu is the best of the best when it comes to halwa puri. Whether it's young boys seeking halwa puri after a fun night match or a dad getting breakfast right after fajr namaz, Bhai Babu is out of halwa, puri, aalu, achar and chanay by 8 a.m. most Sundays. So if you want legit halwa puri, wake up bright and early on a Sunday morning and brave the long line outside of Bhai Babu's dukaan.

2. Boat Basin's Halwa Puri and Parathay

Don't worry, I got you pull kay uss par walay covered too, One of my fondest memories of halwa puri (And parathas) is of going to Boat Basin with my friends for breakfast before going to college. We would get there bright and early to order the most delicious aalu parathay with raita and the greasiest, most delicious halwa puri this side of the bridge has to offer. Sitting outside with an extraordinary amount of flies to keep us company, along with a freezing bottle of Pakola, this was a teenager's perfect breakfast. And I suppose will still be my 30-something's favorite breakfast too.

3. Espresso

The one place that has truly been consistent in terms of how I like my coffee and my omelet for breakfast, apart from a few glitches here and there has got to be Espresso. Cappuccino with a double shot of espresso and a cheese and mushroom omelet with red chili flakes added into the mix with half the amount of cheese, and I am a happy, happy little camper. I don't deviate from the tried and tested, so have no idea how chewy the scrambled eggs are or how bad the waffles are. The best part is they listen to me and understand my needs.

4. Bella Vita

Granted this place definitely has some service issues, but that doesn't deter me from a hearty English breakfast followed by mint and chocolate chip gelato in a waffle cone afterward. If I find I'm not getting the service I expect, I make sure I get it. Next time you're at Bella Vita for breakfast and notice a crazy lady yelling across the premise for the attention of a server, come up to me and say hi! Soothing classics like Sinatra and Lionel are also a treat for a relaxing breakfast.

5. Cosmopolitan

I give Cosmopolitan a special mention because this place has introduced a different take on breakfast compared to the eggs and pancakes. Whether it's the Italian or the Parisian, Cosmopolitan has some fantastic new breakfast dishes to try out. Be prepared for the possible waiting and loud atmosphere though. Having the tables so close together makes it difficult to have a conversation sometimes.

Bonus Breakfast Joint: Xander's

You didn't think I could leave this out, did you? While I do admit Xander's is known to be inconsistent and doesn't really deviate from the standard breakfast menu offered by most cafes and restaurants, I have to admit I have eaten some mighty fine eggs there, including the poached eggs and various omelets. Not to mention the coffee there comes with some cute art. However, if you're sitting outside, make sure the flies don't share your meals with you.

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