Eating in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a foodie’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage that blends the flavors and spices of Mughlai, Turkish, and Telugu cuisine. The city is famous for its flavorful biryanis, slow-cooked stews, and spicy curries, as well as its delicious snacks and sweets. Hyderabad’s bustling street markets, such as the Charminar and Laad Bazaar, offer a variety of delicious street food, including kebabs, samosas, and chaat. Additionally, the city boasts several fine-dining restaurants that serve authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, such as the Nizam Club and the Taj Falaknuma Palace.

Visitors to Hyderabad can also enjoy a variety of food-related activities, such as taking a food tour of the city’s markets and restaurants, learning how to cook traditional Hyderabadi dishes in a cooking class, or attending a food festival, such as the Annual Food Festival at the Taj Krishna Hotel. Additionally, the city hosts several food-related events throughout the year, such as the Hyderabad Street Food Festival and the Hyderabad Biryanifest, which celebrate the city’s vibrant food culture.

Here are the food specialties in Hyderabad that you should try, and the best restaurants and vendors where to eat them.

Hyderabadi Biryani – This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple of Hyderabad’s culinary scene. Made with long-grain basmati rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of spices, including saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom, this dish is a must-try for any foodie visiting Hyderabad. For the best Hyderabadi biryani, head to Paradise Biryani, a local institution with multiple locations across the city.

Haleem – This slow-cooked stew made with minced meat, lentils, and spices is a popular dish during the month of Ramadan. It is often served with a side of fried onions and lemon wedges. For the best haleem in Hyderabad, head to Pista House, a local favorite that has been serving this dish for over 50 years.

Mirchi Ka Salan – This tangy and spicy dish is made with green chilies cooked in a peanut and sesame seed sauce. It is a popular accompaniment to biryani and other rice dishes. For the best Mirchi Ka Salan, head to Bawarchi, a casual restaurant that serves delicious Hyderabadi cuisine.

Keema Samosa – This popular snack is a samosa filled with spiced minced meat (keema) and fried to perfection. It is a must-try for anyone looking for a savory snack in Hyderabad. For the best keema samosas, head to Nimrah Cafe and Bakery, a local favorite that serves a variety of delicious snacks and sweets.

Osmania Biscuit – This buttery and crumbly biscuit is a beloved snack in Hyderabad. It is named after the last ruler of the state of Hyderabad and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. For the best Osmania biscuits, head to Karachi Bakery, a popular bakery with multiple locations across the city.

Double ka Meetha – This delicious dessert is made with bread soaked in milk, sugar, and cardamom and topped with nuts and raisins. It is a popular dish during festivals and special occasions. For the best double ka meetha, head to Shadab Restaurant, a casual eatery that serves a variety of delicious Indian dishes.

Pesarattu – This savory pancake is made with green gram (moong dal) and is a popular breakfast dish in Hyderabad. It is often served with coconut chutney and sambar. For the best pesarattu, head to Chutneys, a casual restaurant with multiple locations across the city.

Gongura Mutton – This spicy and tangy dish is made with mutton (goat meat) cooked with gongura (sorrel) leaves and a blend of spices. It is a popular dish in the Telangana region of India and is a must-try for any meat lover. For the best gongura mutton, head to Rayalaseema Ruchulu, a casual restaurant that serves authentic Telangana cuisine.

Pathar ka Gosht – This succulent and flavorful dish is made with marinated mutton that is cooked on a hot stone (pathar) and served sizzling hot. It is a popular dish in Hyderabad and is a must-try for any meat lover. For the best pathar ka gosht, head to Nizam Club, a fine-dining restaurant that serves a variety of delicious Hyderabadi dishes.

Qubani Ka Meetha – This delicious dessert is made with apricots, sugar, and cream and is a popular dish in Hyderabad. It is often served with a scoop of ice cream and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. For the best qubani ka meetha, head to Shah Ghouse Cafe and Restaurant, a local favorite that serves a variety of delicious Hyderabadi dishes.

Hyderabad is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of delicious dishes to try at every turn. From the fragrant biryanis to the savory keema samosas and the sweet qubani ka meetha, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for casual street food or fine dining, Hyderabad has it all. My personal favorite is the Hyderabadi biryani from Paradise Biryani, which is simply divine. So, make sure to come hungry and explore the city’s vibrant food scene, and you won’t be disappointed.

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