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If there's one dish that can unite the entire nation, it's got to be biryani. The mere mention of this aromatic and flavourful dish is enough to make anyone's mouth water. From the spicy Hyderabadi biryani to the rich and creamy Lucknowi biryani, each region in India has its take on this beloved dish. But did you know that biryani was introduced to India by the Arabs and Persians?
Yes, that's right! The history of biryani dates back to the Mughal era when it was brought to India by the Mughal emperors. But over time, each region in India has put its unique spin on the dish, making it its own. And one such iteration is the Kolkata biryani.
Now, if you think all biryanis are created equal, you haven't visited one of these Kolkata famous biryani restaurants yet. Kolkata biryani has a special place in every foodie's heart for a good reason. It's a perfect blend of flavours with succulent meat, fragrant rice, and a surprise ingredient - potatoes!
Legend has it that when Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, came to Kolkata, he had to feed his people on a budget. So he added potatoes to the biryani to make it more filling and affordable. Thus, the origins of Kolkata biryani can be traced back to this event.
Kolkata may be renowned for its ‘mishti’, but the Kolkata biryani is a valid symbol of the city's diverse flavours. It's a culinary masterpiece, blending just the right amount of spices and ingredients to create a symphony of taste. Much like the city, the Kolkata biryani is a bit extra, but it hits all the right flavour notes to create a mesmerising experience. Ready for it? Here's a list of 8 must-try best biryanis in Kolkata.
1. Shiraz Golden Restaurant
Nestled in the lively neighbourhood of Park Circus, Shiraz is a beloved biryani destination in Kolkata that has been serving flavourful dishes for years. The restaurant offers an affordable price range, making it an excellent option for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Shiraz's biryani boasts a delicate blend of spices, aromas and flavours that will leave your taste buds singing.
Their mutton pasanda and mutton chaap are also highly recommended for meat lovers, as they are cooked to perfection and burst with flavour.
The restaurant's central location and delicious dishes make it a famous biryani restaurant in Kolkata. If you're a biryani aficionado, Shiraz is worth checking out.
Location: 135, Park St, Park Circus, Beniapukur
Approximate cost: Rs 700 for two people
Timings: 12 pm - 11:30 pm
2. Arsalan
Arsalan, one of the best biryani restaurants in Kolkata, has won the hearts and palates of countless food lovers. While not the first biryani joint in the city, Arsalan has gained popularity since opening its doors in 2002. The original store in Park Circus draws regular queues, come rain or shine, and serves famous biryani in Kolkata.
Arsalan's secret lies in the harmonious balance of spiced rice, tender mutton, and well-cooked aloo that absorbs all the flavours. For chicken enthusiasts, the chicken chaap is a must-try.
So if you're looking for some famous biryani in Kolkata, head over to Arsalan and indulge in their perfectly balanced flavours. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this restaurant is worth a try. A bonus is that the staff at the entrance will happily pile your plate with extra succulent pieces of meat upon your request, ensuring that you get your fill of deliciousness.
Location: Arsalan has multiple outlets in Chinar Park, New Town & Rajarhat
Approximate cost: Rs 850 for two
Timings: 11 am - 11:30 pm
3. Dada Boudi Biryani
Located on the outskirts of Kolkata, there's a biryani joint named Dada Boudi that has gained immense popularity among food enthusiasts. This quaint biryani restaurant in Kolkata has served flavourful biryanis since its establishment in the early 2000s. The standout feature of their Kolkata famous biryani is the large chunks of meat, weighing around 180-200 gm, that are cooked to perfection.
What truly sets Dada Boudi's biryani apart is the addition of well-cooked potatoes that enhance the taste and aroma of the rice and meat.
Dada Boudi offers delicious biryani at an affordable price, making it a go-to place for a hearty meal. So, if you happen to be in the Barrackpore area, visit Dada Boudi and relish their scrumptious biryani that promises to tantalise your taste buds.
Location: 12/10, S.N. Banerjee Road, Barrackpore
Approximate cost: Rs 650 for two people
Timings: 11:30 am - 11 pm
4. Royal Indian Restaurant
Royal Indian Restaurant may not be known for its Kolkata biryani, but its Awadhi biryani is a must-try, even though it lacks potatoes. However, the restaurant has recently started serving Kolkata's famous biryani, with a different flavour profile and rice-sorting method. The biryani is spicier than others in Kolkata, making it stand out. Although they don't typically include potatoes, they now offer them as an option due to customer demand. The mutton biryani comes with meatballs, making it a unique experience.
Location: 24 A, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Lower Range, Park Circus, Ballygunge
Approximate cost: Rs 800 for two people
Timings: 11:30 am–11:30 pm
5. New Aliyah Hotel
One of the must-visit places for Biryani lovers in Kolkata is New Aliyah Hotel. It is a no-frills restaurant known for its quick service and pocket-friendly prices.
The restaurant boasts a rich history and is a favourite among those who have worked in Kolkata's central business district. The restaurant has discreet curtained tables meant for ladies or families, but it's also an excellent place for groups of friends to enjoy a hearty meal.
Their Kolkata famous biryani is a standout dish, as the rice is not heavily flavoured with masala, allowing you to enjoy the taste of the meat and spices. For those looking for something even lighter, their rezalas are a must-try. Whether you're a tourist or a local, visiting New Aliyah Hotel is a must for anyone looking for a delicious and authentic Biryani experience in Kolkata.
Locations: 31, Bentinck St, Mission Row Extension, Esplanade, Chowringhee North
Approximate cost: INR 700 for two people.
Timings: 10 am - 11 pm
6. Manzilat's
Look no further than Manzilat if you are looking for one of the best biryanis in Kolkata. Manzilat's belongs to home chef Manzilat Fatima, whose culinary skills have been passed down through generations of Kolkata's oldest Shia Muslim family. As a direct descendant of the Nawab of Lucknow, Wajid Ali Shah, Chef Manzi still prepares the OG recipe created in the royal kitchens during his exile in Kolkata.
Indulge in the Kalkatta shahi mutton biryani, Lucknowi mutton yakhni pulao, or the galouti kebabs, and let the flavours transport you to the royal kitchens of Lucknow.
While the cost may be steep, the experience is worth it. Chef Manzi's biryani is not just a dish but a celebration of heritage and tradition. Each bite is a symphony of flavours that will leave you craving more. Don't miss out on this culinary treasure; head to Chef Manzi's kitchen for an unforgettable biryani experience.
Location: Plot-1 Phase-3, Kasba Industrial Estate, Anandapur
Approximate cost: Rs 500 for two people.
Timings: 12:30 pm - 9:30 pm
7. Zam Zam Restaurant
Zam Zam restaurant in Kolkata is a top choice for biryani lovers. Their biryani is flavoured without being too spicy, and they also offer a lighter version with deliciously tender meat. Locals highly recommend trying mutton biryani and chicken malai.
Located in Lower Range, Beck Bagan, Park Circus, the restaurant's biryani is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavours of Kolkata. The spices' aroma and the meat's tenderness will leave you wanting more.
Zam Zam's biryani is perfect for a memorable dining experience, whether you're a local or a visitor to the city. Make sure to add it to your list of must-try biryanis in Kolkata.
Location: 28A, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Beck Bagan, Park Circus
Approximate cost: INR 500 for two.
Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
8. Haan D Biryani
Haan D Biryani is a must-try for those searching for a low-fat biryani option. Indrajit De Sarkar runs this cloud kitchen, which has quickly become a top choice among Kolkata's newer crop of biryani restaurants.
One of the restaurant's unique selling points is that the biryani is cooked in sunflower oil and only with whole spices, resulting in a healthy dish. Their cooking process will leave you feeling satisfied without compromising on flavours. Don't forget to add Haan D Biryani to your list of must-try biryanis in Kolkata.
Location: 55, Ripon St, near Ripon Nursing Home, Dharamtalla, Taltala
Approximate cost: INR 250 for one order.
Timings: 12:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Kolkata is a food lover's paradise, and when it comes to biryani, the city has truly outdone itself. From traditional recipes passed down for generations to new-age interpretations that bring a fresh twist, the biryani scene in Kolkata is genuinely one-of-a-kind.
Although, visiting this city is incomplete without indulging in its iconic sweets. Don't miss out on these famous rasgulla shops in Kolkata and the best places for Bengali sondesh. And while you're at it, be sure to check out these 10 things to do in Kolkata to experience the city's rich history, culture, and hospitality. Food is an emotion in Kolkata, and here's why visiting this foodie heaven is an absolute must!
FAQs
Q1. What are some of the famous biryani in Kolkata?
Answer: Kolkata is known for its diverse biryani offerings, including the Kolkata-style, Lucknow-style, and even the famous Hyderabadi biryani in Kolkata. Some popular types of non-veg biryani available in Kolkata include chicken, mutton, fish and egg biryani.
Q2. Are vegetarian biryani options available at these top biryani places in Kolkata?
Answer: Many of the top biryani places in Kolkata offer vegetarian biryani options. These typically include a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, peas, and cauliflower, cooked with fragrant spices and long-grain basmati rice.
Q3. Are the biryanis at these top 8 places spicy?
Answer: The level of spiciness can vary at each place, but some, like Zam Zam and Arsalan, do have 'not too spicy' biryanis.
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