Top 9 Famous Biryani Restaurants in Hyderabad

Biryani has been an integral part of Hyderabadi cuisine for nearly 400 years, tracing its origins to Persian influences. This iconic dish, known for its rich flavours and aromatic spices, became a staple of the royal kitchen after Emperor Aurangzeb appointed Nizam-Ul-Mulk as the ruler of Hyderabad. Combining elements of Mughlai and Andhra cuisine, Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is cooked using the unique “Dum Pukht” technique, where the biryani is slow-cooked in a sealed pot, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully.

Hyderabadi Dum Biryani comes in two styles based on its cooking method: Kacchi Yakhni and Pakki Yakhni. In Kacchi Yakhni, raw marinated meat is layered with rice and cooked slowly. The meat is marinated overnight and then sandwiched between layers of rice in a Handi, creating a perfect Hyderabadi Dum Biryani. In Pakki Yakhni, pre-cooked meat is layered with rice. The meat is marinated for a shorter time, semi-cooked, and then placed in a handi and sealed to release its aroma and juices. For hardcore biryani lovers seeking the best Hyderabadi Biryani with its original taste, Hyderabad is the ultimate destination. 

Here are some famous Hyderabad biryani restaurants you must try, as recommended by Thing2do:

1Paradise Biryani

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Paradise Biryani has been a favourite in Hyderabad since 1953. It’s known for serving some of the best biryanis in the city, drawing in both locals and tourists. Paradise Biryani stands out for its quality, using top-notch ingredients like premium basmati rice, tender meat, and a mix of aromatic spices to make delicious biryani. They also offer special varieties like Hyderabadi dum biryani and kebab biryani, which keep people coming back for more!

2Bawarchi

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Another standout in Hyderabad’s biryani scene is Bawarchi, located on RTC Cross Road. This restaurant is well-known for its aromatic biryani which leaves a lasting impression. Their mutton biryani is especially popular, with perfectly cooked meat and rice packed with rich spices. Bawarchi gets incredibly busy during holidays and weekends, drawing large crowds.

3Shadab hotel

 

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Located in the heart of the old city near Charminar, Shadab Hotel is a gem for biryani lovers. The restaurant’s old-world charm, combined with its mouthwatering biryani, makes for an unforgettable dining experience. The mutton biryani here is a must-try, featuring tender meat and flavorful rice. And after enjoying the biryani, be sure to try their delicious desserts like Qubani ka Meetha.

4Drive a supercar around a world-famous circuit Shah Ghouse Cafe and Restaurant

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Shah Ghouse is a local favourite in Tolichowki for its tasty and affordable biryani. This place serves a biryani that stands up to the city’s most famous spots. Their mutton biryani is especially good, with tender meat and perfectly cooked rice. With generous portions and budget-friendly prices, it’s a top choice for biryani lovers looking to enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank.

5Hotel Rumaan

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If you want a straightforward biryani experience that’s full of flavour but easy on the wallet, Hotel Rumaan in Tolichowki is the place to go. This modest spot serves a tasty biryani that doesn’t cost much. Their mutton biryani is a favourite, with tender meat and rice full of aromatic spices. Hotel Rumaan shows that you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy delicious biryani in Hyderabad.

6Nayaab Hotel

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Situated in Masab Tank, Nayaab Hotel is another hidden gem that offers an affordable yet scrumptious biryani experience. The mutton biryani at Nayaab is highly recommended as one of the best mutton biryanis in Hyderabad, known for its flavorful rice and tender meat. The generous portions and reasonable prices make it a favourite among locals and students alike.

7Meridian Cafe and Restaurant

 

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Located in Punjagutta, Meridian Café & Restaurant is famous for its mutton biryani which is both flavorful and satisfying. The meat is tender, and the rice is perfectly spiced, making each bite a delightful experience. The restaurant’s cosy ambience and excellent service add to the overall dining experience.

8Alpha Hotel

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Situated in Secunderabad, Alpha Hotel is a favourite among biryani lovers for its delectable mutton biryani. The restaurant’s mutton biryani is known for its succulent pieces of meat and aromatic rice that is cooked to perfection. Alpha Hotel’s biryani is a testament to the fact that great biryani can be found in the most unexpected places.

9 Sarvi Restaurant

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Sarvi Restaurant, located in Banjara Hills, is another gem that offers an exceptional mutton biryani experience. The meat is cooked to tender perfection, and the rice is infused with a rich blend of spices, creating a burst of flavour in every bite. The elegant ambience and attentive service make Sarvi a great choice for a biryani feast.

In Hyderabad, biryani is enjoyed from breakfast around 10:30 am until midnight, with many hotels offering non-spicy versions to suit different tastes. The old city is home to numerous hotels serving traditional Hyderabadi biryani in various styles. While mutton biryani is a favourite, you should also try other varieties like chicken, prawn, and vegetarian biryani for a diverse experience. Enhance your meal with traditional sides like Mirchi ka Salan (a spicy chilli curry) and Raita (a yoghurt-based side dish) to elevate the flavours.

If you’re in Hyderabad, visit these spots for an amazing biryani experience and follow @_things2do for more recommendations.