In search of that PERFECT biryani in Hyderabad? This is the only guide you need

You know, I had four different ways to start this blog. But then I thought, ‘why not begin with a real story?’

I was 9 years old when I visited Hyderabad for a wedding with my family. On our way back, we were standing near the Hyderabad Railway Station, hungry and looking for a place to eat. We walked into a random restaurant nearby and ordered Hyderabadi chicken biryani.

And there I found THE BIRYANI of my life. Spicy and packed with masala, where the masala has coated the rice like it’s a love story. Slightly sweet when the birista (fried onions) comes in your bite, and that tenderness of the chicken… JUST PERFECT.

It’s been over a decade now, I’m 21 as I write this. And I still remember the taste. I love biryani so much now that my portfolio is named ‘Biryani Writer.’ Okay, I don’t remember the name of that restaurant. No one in my family does. And honestly, I doubt it even exists anymore.
But I want you to fall in love with biryani, too. (Because how can you not? I am judging you already.)

So this is your guide. If you’re in Hyderabad and confused about where to eat, these are my recommendations. But first…

Veg Biryani anyone? It looks tempting, though

Would you like to know the story behind it?

Biryani didn’t start in Hyderabad (I know it’s shocking). It came from Persia (modern-day Iran), and over time, it traveled through the Mughal courts and eventually made its way to the Deccan region in South India.

And that’s where the magic happened, in Hyderabad, under the rule of the Nizams. These royal rulers were very serious about their food. Their chefs (called khansamas) were some of the finest in the country. With Persian roots and Indian spices, they crafted a version of biryani that was rich, bold, and unforgettable flavours.

The locals added their touch too, slow-cooking techniques, deep-fried onions (birista), mint, saffron, and more. And that’s how we got our Hyderabadi Biryani.

Now, there are two main types of Hyderabadi Biryani:

• Kacchi (raw) biryani – Raw marinated meat is layered with rice and slow-cooked together in a pot. This is the OG style.
• Pakki (cooked) biryani– Both meat and rice are cooked separately and then layered.
  Both are delicious, each with its flavour and technique. So where can you try the best biryani in Hyderabad?

Pakki biryani

Here’s the list

1. Pista House

Most people know Pista House for its Haleem, but their biryani is solid too. The meat is tender, and the biryani isn’t too spicy (but perfect), so it works for most people. If you’re around Charminar, this is a good option for a filling lunch or dinner. The place is usually crowded. I’d suggest going for the Mutton Biryani, and if it’s Ramzan season, try the Haleem on the side.

2. Bawarchi Restaurant

One of the most talked-about places in Hyderabad, and for good reason. The biryani here is loaded with flavour and comes in huge portions. It’s a bit on the spicier side, so be ready for that. The restaurant is always packed, and parking can be a pain, but once you taste the biryani, you’ll forget all that. Go for the Bawarchi Special Biryani—you won’t regret it.

Bawarchi biryani, serving since 1994 | Credits- Instagram (@hyderabad_times)

3. Cafe Bahar

It’s always busy, but they somehow manage to serve food fast. Their biryani has a nice balance of spice and ghee, and the chicken is usually well-cooked and juicy. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a classic Hyderabadi Biryani experience without too much chaos.

4. Grand Hotel

This place is perfect if you’re looking for something simple, affordable, and open almost all day. It’s not fancy, but the food is proper comfort food. The biryani is more on the spicier side. The vibe is casual, and you’ll see a mix of college students, families, and regulars. Also, try their Mutton Paya soup, and thank me later.

 This is what a Hydrabadi daawat looks like

5. Paradise Biryani

Paradise is one of the oldest and most popular biryani chains in Hyderabad. People say it’s overhyped now (and honestly, it's true), but it’s still a good starting point if you’re new to the city. The biryani is lighter compared to others, not too spicy, not too oily. Their dining space is clean and comfortable. The Chicken Biryani with salan and raita is the classic combo here. It might not blow your mind, but it won’t disappoint, either.

6. Biryaniwalla & Co

This place is quite modern comparatively others. The restaurant is clean, service is decent, and the portions are big. Their biryani is not too spicy but full of masala. It’s a good place for a peaceful lunch, especially when you want to avoid the crowd at the more famous spots. Their Paneer Biryani is surprisingly good if you're vegetarian. (All meat lovers, please don’t hate me.)

Mutton biryani at Biryaniwalla & Co

7. The Spicy Venue

This isn’t your typical biryani joint. It’s known more for Andhra meals, but they serve amazing biryani. Their version is spicier and has a slightly different flavour because of Andhra-style spices. If you’re in the mood to try something new, go for their Ulavacharu Chicken Biryani. It’s different from regular Hyderabadi biryani but worth a try.

Biryani with salan at The Spicy Venue

8. Hotel Shadab

This is one of those places that feels like it hasn’t changed in years—and that’s a good thing. The biryani is full of flavour, a bit oily, and very aromatic. It’s usually crowded, especially during evenings. You’ll see a mix of locals, tourists, and office-goers all digging into plates of biryani. If you go, definitely try the Mutton Biryani.

The seating area at Shadab may look ordinary, but the taste will blow your mind 

9. Shah Ghouse

This place is a favourite among locals, especially late at night. The rice is masaledaar, the meat is soft, and the quantity is generous. It can get noisy and chaotic, but the food makes up for it. Go for the Mutton Biryani with a side of Tala Hua Gosht, that combo is next-level. It’s not fancy, but it’s full of flavour.

Okay…I know I have missed out on many places that also serve the best biryani in Hyderabad. But it’s impossible to add them all. Want to know what else you can eat here other than Hydrabadi Biryani? Then, that topic deserves another separate blog.
For more such honest recommendations, have a look at what else we’ve written.