From internet memes to #FoodPorn posts on social media, biryani is a feeling that every south Indian harbours with so much reverence, it’s a dish that tops every occasion, and at any time. There’s never a wrong time to order (or make) that lovely melting pot of steamed rice with a meat of your choice infused with saffron, tomatoes, caramelised onions, ghee, and all the necessary spices.
Yaa Mohideen
The biryani here is legendary. Ask any Chennaite and they are sure to mention the iconic ‘Yaa Mohideen’ in Pallavaram. Other branches have opened up over time, but it’s always the original place that takes you by surprise even if you are a regular customer. Minimal and humble in its appearance, the biryani is fine, the meat pieces are tender and juicy, and the prices are modest. If you are in the mood to hog away some rice and chicken, then head to this biryani place and do enjoy the terrific brinjal masala and raita that comes along with it.
Ambur Star Biryani
Upon entering any of the Ambur Star Biryani restaurants, the aroma of succulent meat pieces being cooked in masala and small-sized rice greets you and immediately entices your tastebuds. Upon ordering, the plate of biryani might not be as orange as you’d expect, but that’s the beauty of it – no add-ons, just authentic biryani from South India. People who aren’t too fond of spicy food will particularly like this biryani as the masala isn’t so overpowering but isn’t absent either. Try the mutton biryani with a plate of chicken 65 on the side and enjoy the experience.
Charminar Biryani Centre
The best part of Chennai are the little nooks and crannies in the city that are home to popular and unassuming biryani joints. Charminar Biryani Centre in Royapettah is one such place. There are no tables to sit or someone to personally come and attended to you, but that’s the whole experience that comes with tasting the delicious biryani. It’s affordable with a great portion of rice, meat and an egg, along with raita and the brinjal masala. Caramelized onions makes this biryani more sumptuous, a perfect meal for lunch or if you’re not in the mood to stand and eat, you can parcel it and enjoy the same at the comforts of your home or office.
SS Hyderabad Biryani
If you are in the mood for a masala style biryani, your search ends here. A generous amount of biryani, fit for at least 2-3 people, this pace has one of the most delicious fare. A favourite among Chennai-it’s, their branches are spread all over the city. The Hyderabadi Dum Biryani in mutton and chicken are a must try from here. The prices are reasonable, too, and you always leave with a good taste post your meal from SS Hyderabad Biryani.
Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant
The inception of this biryani joint dates back to 1957, when a man named Nagasamy Naidu’s biryani won praises and earned the name ‘Thalappakatti’ owing to the turban ‘Thalapa’ he would wear. Needless to say, the food doesn’t disappoint. High on spices and flavour, the biryani isn’t basmati-based but made of the short grained seeraga samba rice that has a taste of its own that’s synonymous to biryani from the South of India. Egg biryani, chicken 65, country chicken biryani and more, and not to forget the variety they have for vegetarians is just as impressive.
Ente Keralam
While Tamil Nadu biryani are aplenty, Kerala biryani, too, tops this list and no place better than the quaint Ente Keralam. Mildly spiced, the iconic ET biryani hails from the town of Thalassery in Kerala. Kappa biryani, made of tapioca, is another dish that restaurant goers would enjoy, a dish that’s a major departure from the usual fare in Chennai. The accompaniments include beef fry, raw onions, or seafood curry. With three ETs in Chennai, it’s always best to book a table especially during festival seasons.
Bazaar, Grand by GRT Hotels
When it comes to biryani, Bazaar at T Nagar’s Grand by GRT Hotels tops the list for the most lip smacking biryani at the fine dining level. The price is a bit steep but worth every penny, with the quantity and flavour superseding your expectations. The mutton biryani is lathered with desi ghee and the aroma that wafts in the air is enough to tease your tastebuds. If you are ever in the mood to treat yourself, the Bhai Biryani is worth the try!
Bai Veetu Kalyana Biryani
Launched just before the lockdown, this new biryani place has really become popular. They specialise in wedding style biryani and have fans all over the city. They also run a biryani kiosk where you can select and place an order yourself. They have a variety of options to choose from Kozhi biryani to Varutha Kozhi biryani, Aatu Erachi Biryani (mutton) and fried snacks for sides.