Top 10 biryanis in India you need to try at least once

India’s love affair with biryani is legendary—and each region brings its own twist to this aromatic, indulgent dish. Here are the top 10 biryanis you absolutely must try at least once, each with its own story and flavor profile:

1. Hyderabad Biryani
From the royal kitchens of the Nizams, this iconic biryani is cooked dum pukht style—sealed with dough and slow-cooked over charcoal. Expect marinated meat, saffron, caramelized onions, and fragrant basmati rice.

2. Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani
A delicate, aromatic biryani from Uttar Pradesh, slow-cooked with spices like anise, cinnamon, and saffron. It’s less fiery, more refined.

3. Kolkata Biryani
A Nawabi legacy with a Bengali twist—this biryani includes boiled eggs and potatoes, thanks to Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s exile to Kolkata in 1856.

4. Thalassery Biryani
From Kerala’s Malabar coast, this biryani uses Kaima rice instead of basmati. It’s lighter, subtly spiced, and deeply satisfying.

5. Ambur Biryani
A Tamil Nadu specialty made with Samba rice and marinated meat in curd. Served with Ennai Kathirikai (eggplant curry), it’s bold and rustic.

6. Bombay Biryani
A sweet-and-spicy biryani from Mumbai, featuring kewra water and dried plums. Often includes fried potatoes and can be made with chicken or mutton.

7. Dindigul Biryani
Another Tamil Nadu gem, known for its tangy flavor from lemon juice and curd-marinated meat. Uses Seeraga Samba rice for a unique texture.

8. Bhatkali Biryani
From coastal Karnataka, this biryani is fiery and layered with sautéed onions and green chilies. A must-try for spice lovers.

9. Beary Biryani
A lesser-known treasure from the Beary Muslim community in Karnataka. Mildly spiced, often includes eggs and coconut milk.

10. Chettinad Biryani
Bold and peppery, this biryani from Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region is rich in spices and perfect for those who love intense flavors.

Each biryani is a cultural capsule—telling stories of migration, royalty, and local ingenuity.