Hyderabad on a plate: Best biryani, kebabs, and sweet spots in the city

Sabne keh diya Hyderabad ka khana lazeez hai? And you, being the true foodie that you are, packed your bags and hopped on a delicious trip to the City of Nizams. But once you landed, the biggest question hit, kahaan se shuru karein?

Don’t worry, we’ve got your cravings covered! From the historic streets of Old Hyderabad to the vibrant lanes of the new city, this is your ultimate roadmap to authentic flavours, iconic dishes, and legendary food joints.

Let’s begin with the soul of the city, Old Hyderabad:

1. Shah Ghouse Cafe

Shah Ghouse Cafe is one of Hyderabad’s iconic eateries, known for serving one of the best Hyderabadi biryanis in town. Beyond Biryani their rich haleem (especially during Ramadan) and juicy kebabs. Located in the heart of the Old City, this spot is always packed with locals and tourists who come craving its aromatic rice, tender meat, and perfectly balanced spices.

• Timing: 11 AM to 1 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person

Shah Ghouse Cafe | Credits: tasteatlas.com

2. Hotel Nayaab

Hotel Nayaab has been renowned for its authentic Hyderabadi flavours since 1986. Situated near Charminar in the bustling Nayapul area, it's famous for its hearty breakfast offerings, including dishes like Nihari, Paya, and Khichdi-Khatta-Keema, which draw early morning crowds. The restaurant's menu also features flavourful biryani, haleem, and a variety of kebabs.

• Timing: 4:30 AM to 12 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person

3. Nimrah Cafe & Bakery

Nimrah Cafe & Bakery is a beloved spot in Hyderabad, known for its Irani chai and Osmania biscuits. Established in 1993 near the iconic Charminar, it has become a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The cafe offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including coconut macaroons and fruit toasts.

• Timing: 5 AM to 12 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200

Nimrah cafe & bakery

4. Akbar Fast Food Corner

Akbar Fast Food Corner near Charminar, Hyderabad is renowned for its flavourful North Indian fast food. Patrons flock here to enjoy dishes like Chicken 65, Tandoori Chicken, and Warqi Paratha. With a budget-friendly menu, it offers a satisfying dining experience without breaking the bank.

• Timing: 1 PM to 1 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200 per person

5. Govind Dosa

Govind Dosa, located near Ghansi Bazaar in Hyderabad's Old City, is a cherished street food destination known for its flavourful dosas and budget-friendly offerings. With a menu featuring classics like butter dosa, cheese burst dosa, tawa idli, and vada, this humble stall attracts locals and tourists.

• Timing: 7 AM to 1 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200 per person

Govind Dosa | Credits: zomato.com

6. Kabab-E-Jahangiri Centre

Kabab-E-Jahangiri Centre is a popular kebab joint located near Charminar in Hyderabad. The small, unassuming place is known for its flavourful Sheekh Kebab and Tala Hua Gosht served with Warqi Paratha, a multi-layered Indian bread. While the seating area is narrow and the hygiene may be questionable, the affordable prices and delicious food attract many visitors daily.

• Timing: 2 PM to 11 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200 per person

7. Hotel Shahran

Hotel Shahran located near Charminar is known for its flavourful mutton seekh kebabs, which are often paired with peanut chutney. Another standout dish is the Tala Hua Gosht, a deep-fried mutton which has received a lot of praise. This place also offers a variety of other dishes, including Warqi Paratha, mutton biryani, and special lassi.

• Timing: 5 AM to 12:30 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person

Shahran Hotel | Credits: zomato.com

8. Mashallah Ghawa

​Mashallah Arabic Ghawa in Hyderabad's Ghansi Bazaar is a spot for those seeking a unique twist on traditional Arabic coffee. This spot is known for its special version of ghawa, a soothing beverage typically brewed with coffee, rose water, saffron, and cardamom.

• Timing: 11 AM to 11:30 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200 per person

9. Hameedi Confectioners

​Hameedi Confectioners is a historic sweet shop renowned for its signature dish, Jouzi Halwa. Established over a century ago by a young Turkish boy named Mohammed Hussain, the shop quickly gained fame when the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, developed a fondness for its unique offerings. The Jouzi Halwa, a rich and aromatic dessert made with milk, dry fruits, saffron, and a special Turkish spice called 'jauzi', is prepared through a meticulous 16-hour process, resulting in a delicacy that has become synonymous with Hyderabadi sweets. Beyond this famed halwa, Hameedi Confectioners offers a variety of traditional sweets, maintaining its legacy as a cherished destination for dessert enthusiasts in the city.

• Timing: 10 AM to 11 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person

Sweet from Hameedi Confectioners

10. Bilal Ice Cream

Bilal Ice Cream Parlour is a beloved spot for traditional, handcrafted ice creams. Established decades ago, it has developed a loyal following for its rich and creamy flavours, including seasonal favourites like mango, kharbuja (muskmelon), and sitaphal (custard apple). The parlour is enhanced by its Nizami architecture with chandeliers and vintage portraits.

• Timing: 10 AM to 11 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 150 to INR 400 per person ​

11. Royal Fish

Royal Fish, located in Moazzam Jahi Market, is a popular spot for seafood lovers in Hyderabad. Known for its tasty fried fish, the place serves fish that's fresh, well-spiced, and crispy on the outside while soft inside. It’s a small, no-fuss eatery where locals go for a quick and delicious meal. If you enjoy seafood and want to try something local, Royal Fish is a great place to stop by.

• Timing: 3 PM to 12 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 1 to INR 200 per person ​

While Old Hyderabad food spots have their own charm, New Hyderabad also has some popular and emerging places to eat:

1. Chutneys

Chutneys is a popular restaurant in Hyderabad known for its tasty South Indian food. People love it for its soft dosas, idlis, and crispy vadas. What makes it special is the variety of chutneys they serve, usually around six types like coconut, tomato, ginger, and more. The place is clean and family-friendly, perfect for breakfast or a light meal. If you want to enjoy simple and yummy South Indian food, Chutneys is a great choice.

• Timing: 7 AM to 11 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person

Chutney’s south indian thali

2. Pista House

Pista House, a household name in Hyderabad known for serving one of the city's most loved haleems. Their rich, creamy haleem draws huge crowds during Ramadan every year. Along with that, they also serve flavourful biryani, juicy kebabs, and traditional Hyderabadi desserts like Qubani ka Meetha. What makes Pista House stand out is its consistent quality, cleaner ambience, and wide reach, with multiple outlets and even international exports.

• Timing: 11 AM to 12:45 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 200 to INR 400 per person ​

3. Cream Stone

Cream Stone is one of the most loved ice cream spots in Hyderabad. It’s known for its wide variety of rich, creamy ice creams that are mixed with toppings like brownies, fruits, and nuts right in front of you. Some popular choices include Willy Wonka, Nutella Brownie, and Fruit Exotica. The place has a fun vibe and is great for late-night dessert cravings.

• Timing: 10:30 AM to 12 AM
• Cost: Approximately INR 150 to INR 300 per person

Creamstone ice cream

4. Agra Sweets Banjara

Agra Sweets in Hyderabad is a popular destination for traditional Indian sweets and snacks. Known for its authentic flavours, the shop offers a variety of mithai, including favourites like jalebi, rasgulla, and peda. In addition to sweets, Agra Sweets serves a selection of savoury snacks, making it a convenient spot for a quick bite or takeaway. The shop is appreciated for its quality offerings and reasonable prices.

• Timing: 7 AM to 11:30 PM
• Cost: Approximately INR 150 to INR 300 per person

Conclusion

From the traditional aromas of Old Hyderabad to the trendy flavours of the city's newer corners, Hyderabad truly serves up a feast for every kind of foodie. Whether you're craving spicy biryanis, sizzling kebabs, indulgent desserts, or comforting South Indian fare, the city has something for every palate. Hopefully, this guide has answered the one question that brought you here, “where to eat in Hyderabad?”