Doesn’t your mouth get flooded with the anticipation of delightful, aromatic flavours as soon as you hear the word “biryani”? Well there’s nothing new with that as biryani’s flavour has ruled the taste buds of a number of food enthusiasts. The aromatic rice along with a variety of spices often combined with meats and vegetables is undoubtedly one of the dishes that’s almost everyone’s favourite.
If you are also among the ones that love biryani then you definitely need to stick with us till the end. Confused why? It’s because we’re going to reveal some of the finest spots where you can taste the best biryani in Kathmandu.
The Origin of Biryani
There is an ongoing debate that continues when it comes to finding out the origin of biryani. There are two theories behind the name “biryani”.One theory suggests that the origin of biryani can be linked to the Persian word “Birinj,” denoting rice, while another states that it emerged from “biryan” or “beriyan,” Persian terms meaning ‘to fry’ or ‘to roast’.
It is widely believed that Modern biryani originated in the royal kitchens of Mughal Empires. The dish is supposed to have originated in Persia (Iran) and was later brought to India by Mughal Emperors. However, there are also arguments that biryani already existed in India before the invasion by the Mughals and was brought by the Arab traders.
Also, there is a strong belief that biryani was a result of mixing native spicy rice dishes of India and the Persian Pilaf.
Biryani Types
One thing that’s common in biryani is rice, however, they differ in the type of ingredients used and the cooking styles. Here is a list of some of the famous kinds of biryanis,
- Hyderabadi biryani
- Kolkata biryani
- Lucknowi biryani (Awadhi biryani)
- Sindhi biryani
- Ambur biryani
- Malabar biryani
Best biryani in Kathmandu
Moving ahead, I know you are eager to find where you can actually find the best biryani in Kathmandu. So, let’s now explore some of the finest places serving the best biryani in town,
1. Haadi Biryani
At Haadi biryani, the biryani is a symbol of authenticity. Cooked in a clay pot (haadi) over a charcoal flame, the royal Lucknowi chefs precisely prepare this dish. Using high-quality ingredients, the rice is aged for over two years, and the meats are of premium quality. The result is perfectly seasoned rice, well-cooked meat, and a symphony of spices that elevates the flavour to an unparalleled level.
Perfectly seasoned rice with well-cooked meat and spices undoubtedly leaves tantalizing your taste buds. The place is great for family dinners, small gatherings, excellent hospitality, and management. However, there is some room for improvement in services.
Location: Dillibazar, Kathmandu
Find Haadi biryani: Web | Social Media
2. Fati’s biryani
Fatis biryani is renowned for offering biryani that strikes a perfect balance between reasonable prices and generous portions. The diverse menu includes options such as chicken, mutton, egg, and buff biryani. What sets it apart is not just the affordability but also the flavorful biryani that pairs exceptionally well with its signature tomato sauce.
Not just mouth-watering biryani but Fatis biryani offers visitors with clean and organized ambiance along with fast service. It would be great if the restaurant focuses on consistency in taste.
Location: Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur
Find Fatis biryani: Social Media
3. Biryani Adda
Biryani Adda is a must-visit place for those seeking delicious biryani with a special focus on vegetarian options. The biryani, that is above average in taste, attracts food enthusiasts looking for a veg-centric experience.
With biryani Adda you can go through a culinary adventure that extends beyond biryani, with a wide variety of dishes, including the must-try chicken tikka. The Cool and vibrant atmosphere definitely adds to the taste of the delicious foods. However, there might be chances that you’ll find the services of the place a bit slow.
Location: Baneshwor, Kathmandu
Find biryani Adda : Social Media
4. Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen
Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen serves Bohra Muslim food along with its Mumbai-style biryani. You must try out their mutton biryani which tastes absolutely wonderful. The biryani here offers a unique twist to the traditional flavours, making it a must-try for those looking for something different yet delectable.
With a calm ambiance, and friendly and professional staff the place is suitable for families, friends, or business gatherings.
Location: Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur
Find Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen: Web | Social Media
5. Hyderabad House
Hyderabad House takes pride in serving the best authentic and traditional Hyderabadi-style biryani. The aromatic biryanis, reminiscent of the royal kitchens of Nizams, distinguish themselves from other cuisines in town. The biryani is not just a dish here; it’s an experience that transports diners to the era of Hyderabadi culinary excellence.
The place is a great choice for halal food along with impressive ambience, cleanliness, and presentation. There are chances that you might find the prices slightly higher compared to other places.
Location: Naxal, Kathmandu
Find Hyderabad House: Social Media
6. Mughal Empire
Mughal Empire exhibits mouth-watering biryani with an unwavering consistency in taste. The Mughal Special biryani, in particular, is a culinary masterpiece that showcases a perfect blend of flavours.
The inviting ambience and friendly staff contribute to an overall delightful dining experience. It would be great if the place tried making the services a bit faster.
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu
Find Mughal Empire: Social Media
7. Hyderabadi Dum Biryani
Hyderabadi Dum biryani offers an authentic biryani experience with perfectly seasoned spices. The biryani is not only a great value for money but also comes with complementary raita and chutney, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours. Pairing the biryani with their lassi adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the dining experience.
The addition of complimentary raita and chutney alongside the biryani ensures a burst of flavours in every bite. Be sure you do not miss out on the delightful combination of their lassi, a perfect addition to the biryani experience. As the option of paid parking is only available it would be great if the place works for free parking options.
Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
Find Hyderabadi Dum biryani: Social Media
8. Biryani Ghar
Biryani Ghar introduces patrons to the taste of Authentic Awadhi biryani and Lucknowi biryani. The portions are not only filling but also reasonably priced, making it an attractive choice for those seeking an authentic biryani experience.
Biryani Ghar is a Lovely place with hospitable vibes in the heart of Kathmandu. If you are a vegetarian you don’t need to worry a bit as the place offers vegetarian options too.
Location: Lamingtan Marg, Kathmandu
Find biryani Ghar: Social Media
9. Matka Biryani
Matka biryani is known for its top-notch flavours in Hyderabadi Matka Dum biryani. Each bite is a delightful experience, offering a true taste of Hyderabadi culinary excellence.
In addition, the owners ensure a chill environment, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The place can work on service improvement and menu expansion to make the place more attractive.
Location: Gongabu, Kathmandu
Find Matka Biryani: Social Media
10. Nizam’s House
Nizam’s House takes pride in offering one of the best chicken biryanis in town. Aromatic and authentic, the biryani here is a culinary journey in itself. The restaurant also provides indoor and outdoor seating options, creating a versatile dining experience.
Besides biryani, the other must-try item on the menu is chicken curry, which you should definitely not be missing. Humble staff along with indoor and outdoor seating adds to the taste of biryani and other items on the menu list.
Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
Find Nizam’s House: Social Media
Is Biryani and Pulao Same?
Wait, it’s not over yet. There are a lot of instances when we find people saying that biryani and pulao are the same. But is it true? In reality, biryani and Pulao are two different popular dishes with different cooking methods. Let’s find out how our biryani and pulao are different,
Rice:
Pulao is made with long-grain rice while biryani is prepared using basmati rice.
Cooking Method:
Pulao is prepared through an absorption method which means the ingredients in pulao such as meat, vegetables, and rice absorb water when cooking.
On the other hand, biryani involves a draining method of cooking. biryani is prepared by layering cooked rice with meat and vegetables.
Spices:
What makes your taste buds dance when you eat biryani is the spices present in it. Biryani consists of a complex blend of spices including cumin, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and a variety of dry fruits.
In contrast, pulao is typically prepared with fewer spices compared to that of biryani.
Overview
While the origin of biryani is under debate, there’s no confusion when it comes to the love people have for the taste of biryani. To no surprise, biryani is one of the most popular dishes in Nepal.
From the authenticity of Haadi biryani to the unique twist at Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen, there are a number of places that offer the best biryani in Kathmandu. I’m sure that our list of 10 Places for Best biryani in Kathmandu will definitely help you with satisfying your authentic biryani cravings.
So when are you planning to visit these popular biryani places in Kathmandu?
Also Read: 10 Best UK Consultancy in Nepal
