Biryani stands as a culinary cornerstone in Dubai, capturing the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. This aromatic and flavorful rice dish has become a universal favorite, celebrated across the diverse communities that call Dubai home. Whether you're navigating the bustling streets or exploring the city's hidden culinary gems, the allure of biryani is omnipresent. From luxurious dining establishments to humble eateries, everyone in Dubai seems to have a fondness for this cherished dish.
The fragrant basmati rice, skillfully blended spices, and succulent meat create a harmonious symphony of flavors that transcends cultural boundaries. In Dubai, biryani isn't just a meal; it's a shared experience that unites people from different backgrounds, making it the undisputed favorite on dining tables throughout the city. For those eager to partake in a biryani exploration, here is a curated list of places that promise the best biryani experience in Dubai:
PAK LIYARI
Tucked in the vibrant lanes of Meena Bazaar, Pak Liyari is a culinary gem for biryani lovers in Dubai. Since 2005, this Pakistani restaurant, led by Chef Ali Mohammed, has been delighting diners with its mouthwatering mutton and chicken biryanis. Known for its bustling atmosphere, the restaurant sells 300-400 plates daily, reaching up to 200 kg over weekends.
Beyond biryanis, Pak Liyari offers a variety of treats, including mutton tikka, brain masala, channa daal, and keema. With five outlets in Dubai, Pak Liyari brings the flavors of Karachi's Liyari area to the city, offering an authentic taste of Pakistan. Whether you're a late-night biryani craver or in need of a post-shopping treat in Meena Bazaar, Pak Liyari ensures a flavorful experience that lingers in your memory.
Excellent food and not that expensive . Would highly recommend their chicken Briyani! It's amazing! Loved everything and fairly cheap.
- Location: Al Nahda | Bur Dubai | Deira
- Average Cost for two: AED 40 – AED 50
- Contact: +971-4-221-6970 (Bur Dubai)
BIRYANIWALLA & Co.
Originating as a humble café in 1980 in Hyderabad, India, Biryaniwalla and Co. (BWCO) sprouted from the passionate vision of Mr. Ashtarian. Evolving over four decades, it has become a revered restaurant chain in India and internationally, celebrated for its Hyderabadi style Dum Biryani and authentic Indian cuisine rooted in royal recipes. A staple in Hyderabad and Dubai, BWCO is an iconic destination and an integral part of the cultural scene.
Establishing a successful culinary journey, cherished patrons have expressed boundless love for an array of dishes at Biryaniwalla & Co. The spotlight falls on the universally adored biryanis, the flavorful Chicken 65, the aromatic Talawa Gosht (Mutton Fry), the tangy Khatti Daal (Sour Lentils), and the unique Pathar ka Gosht (Juicy Mutton chunks cooked on Granite Stone). This particular delicacy holds an exclusive status, rooted deeply in its ethnic origins. The recipe, untouched and pure, traces back to a time without modern cookers, where cooking on stones was the norm.
Tasty food with great service. The menu is pure Hyderabadi and there it was almost packed when visited. The staff are friendly and helpful. Highly recommended
- Location: Al Nahda | Hamriya | Al Karama | Al Fahidi Bur Dubai | Business Bay | Discovery Gardens
- Average cost for two: AED 90
- Contact: 600-547297
KULCHA KING
Famed for its delicious kulchas, Kulcha King in Dubai isn't a one-trick pony; their biryani is equally worth relishing. With nine outlets across the city, Kulcha King has become a sought-after spot for biryani lovers. Their diverse biryani menu includes classic tandoor, tikka, malai, and chargrilled chicken options, along with intriguing variations like mushroom and lamb. Despite its name, Kulcha King proves to be a biryani haven, offering eight different types of this beloved dish.
A must-try is the Lamb Rogan Josh Biryani, a spicy fusion of fragrant basmati rice and the rich flavors of Lamb Rogan Josh. For a unique twist, have a go at the Smoked Wild Mushroom Biryani, loaded with Shiitake, Portobellos, and Button mushrooms. Chicken lovers can relish the authenticity of Chicken Tikka Biryani. Don't miss the chance to experience a biryani adventure at Kulcha King, where kulchas and biryanis rule supreme.
The rice was fragrant and flavourful and the biryani on the whole was delicious and not overly spiced. The portion size is good for one or to share between two if you’re ordering other dishes. Highly recommend trying the clay pot biryani.
- Location: JLT | Karama | Business Bay
- Average cost for two: AED 135
- Contact: +971-800-585-242
JAFFER BHAI’S
Jaffer Bhai’s in Al Karama brings the essence of Mumbai's vibrant streets to Dubai, emerging as a top biryani destination. Renowned for its heavenly blend of onions, spices, chicken, dry fruits, and long rice, the biryani here is a treat for food enthusiasts. Conveniently located near Dubai Healthcare City Metro Station with ample parking, Jaffer Bhai’s offers not only exceptional food but also top-notch service.
Awarded UAE’s No #1 Biryani Restaurant, it boasts distinct flavors infused with saffron, ghee, and caramelized onions. Originating as Jaffer Bhai’s Delhi Darbar in Mumbai, India, this acclaimed restaurant promises an enjoyable evening with a relaxed ambiance and flavorful dishes. Don't miss their must-try specialties like Chicken Biryani, Akkha Bakra, Mawa Phirni, and Keema—each bite is a culinary delight.
Really good biryanis and good customer service. Definitely recommended for friends and family.
- Location: Al Karama | Al Barsha | DIFC | Jumeirah Creek Side Hotel
- Average cost for two: AED 140
- Contact: +971-4-342-6467 (Al Karama)
CALICUT PARAGON
Discover the fusion of Malabar and global influences at the award-winning Calicut Paragon in Dubai. This iconic restaurant from Calicut offers a twist to traditional Malabar cuisine, combining Moplah and Thiyya flavors with international touches. Renowned for its delectable biryanis featuring chicken, mutton, egg, fish, or veg options, Calicut Paragon stands out for its exotic taste.
Savor the best dum biryani in town, served with an array of condiments like raita, pickle, chutney, and sweet payasam. Specializing in South Indian dishes, Calicut Paragon's fish mango curry is a standout choice. Experience a culinary journey that combines tradition with innovation at Calicut Paragon, a true gem for Malabar cuisine enthusiasts.
This is not your average high Street curry house! The food is fantastic; some crazy huge artistic creations in carbs and super welcoming and attentive staff. We tried the Mutton Biriyani and Tender coconut pudding.
- Location: Al Karama | Al Nahda
- Average cost for two: AED 120
- Contact: +971 4 251 2545 (Al Nahda)
STHAN
Discover the culinary excellence of Sthan, a top Afghani restaurant in Al Karama, Dubai. Renowned for its North Indian, Mughlai, and Pakistani cuisine, Sthan offers a variety of exquisite Biryani dishes, including options like Paneer Biryani and Biryani Awadh Ki. This kid-friendly restaurant with indoor seating promises a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Savor the aromatic rice and tender meat, accompanied by a refreshing gola bottle drink.
As one of Dubai's premium dining spots, Sthan is celebrated for its quality customer service and a diverse menu featuring cuisines from India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Indulge in must-try dishes like Sindhi Biryani, Chicken Tikka Lababdar, Machi Ambarsari, Kadak Palak Chat, and Chapli Kebab for an unforgettable culinary experience.
If you are on a look out of some aunthentic, spicy, tender, mutton biryani then I request you guys to please visit Sthan.
- Location: Al Karama
- Average cost for two: AED 155
- Contact: +971-4-399-7775
GAZEBO
Indulge in a biryani experience like no other, with a diverse menu featuring delights such as murgh musallam biryani, Kesri murgh tikka biryani, reshmi kabab biryani, malai kabab biryani, seekh kabab biryani, Hyderabadi biryani, and Bombay biryani. The options are as varied as they are delicious. Elevate your dining experience by pairing your biryani with the perfect sides – raita, salad, and chutney – for an exquisite combination that will tantalize your taste buds. Gazebo promises an unparalleled biryani feast, making it a must-visit for biryani enthusiasts in Dubai.
This restaurant has one of the best Biryani of Dubai, perfectly cooked and amazingly served.
- Location: Ibn Batuta Mall | City Centre | Mall of Emirates | Jumeirah Lake Towers | Business Bay and more
- Average cost for two: AED 160
- Contact: +971 4 344 4088 (Business Bay)
BEHROUZ BIRYANI
Behrouz Biryani stands out as a delectable hub, earning a special place in the hearts of Indian and Pakistani expats. This eatery offers various versions of the classic Indo-Pak dish, including subz-e-biryani, lazeez bhuna murgh biryani, dum gosht biryani, and paneer sabz biryani. Each dish is available in three different portions: shahi, king, and kilo.
Their biryani is super yummy and is fully balanced with exotic spices of India.
- Location: Mirdiff | International City | Jumeirah Lake Towers | Al Barsha | Al Karama| Al Nahda | Business Bay and more
BHAI KADAI BIRYANI
Craving biryani in Dubai? Head to Bhai Kadai Biryani for a delightful experience. Whether you prefer chicken, mutton, egg, or veg options, this specialist eatery has you covered. With reasonably priced platters for two to four people, it's perfect for sharing or takeaway. Known for its well-cooked biryani with aromatic spices, the must-try Mutton Dum Biryani stands out.
Non-veg lovers can savor options like King Fish Biryani and Prawn Biryani. Beyond biryani, explore a variety of delectable dishes from various cuisines, served with excellent customer service. Don't miss the flavorful experience, complete with Brinjal Curry, Onion Raita, Boiled Egg, and Gulab Jamun.
Anyone up for some biriyani eating mood? Head to @bhaikadaibiryani for their yummilicious mutton dum biriyani NOW!
- Location: Discovery Gardens | Al Qusais | Al Karama
- Average cost for two: AED 50
- Contact: +971-58-689-3422 (Discovery Gardens)
BIRYANI POT
Biryani Pot in Dubai is a standout spot offering a variety of biryanis, including chicken, lamb, prawn, salmon, butter chicken, and vegetable options. Specializing in both North and South Indian cuisine, the restaurant is renowned for its diverse biryani offerings. With a convenient takeaway option, you can enjoy their biryani at home with family. Notably, Biryani Pot is famous for its mouthwatering handi biryani. The restaurant ensures an exceptional experience, from excellent customer service to high-quality food. If you're in search of a biryani haven in Dubai, Biryani Pot is the place to be.
The BEST Biriyani I have ever had! Look no further, this is the place.
- Location: Umm Suqeim
- Average cost for two: AED 140
- Contact: +971-4-526-9047
STUDENT BIRYANI
Discover the delight of authentic Biryani in Dubai at Student Biryani, a renowned restaurant originating from Karachi, Pakistan. Known for its Pakistani, Indian, and Asian cuisine, the eatery offers a comfortable setting to enjoy Chicken, Mutton, or Veg Biryani alongside other delectable dishes. Student Biryani, a top choice for biryani lovers, is celebrated globally and is particularly popular for breakfast items.
With exceptional service, the restaurant's highlights include Chicken Biryani, Mutton Biryani, Haleem, and Mutton Paya. After dominating as the go-to biryani place in Pakistan for over five decades, Student Biryani has now brought its flavors to Dubai, offering a genuine Pakistani biryani experience with a variety of options, including chicken, beef, mutton, vegetable biryani, and pulao. Don't miss the chance to savor the legacy of Student Biryani in the heart of Dubai!
Most amazing Pakistani food in Dubai especially their biryani and bbq,malai boti is so soft and so delicious it was loved by my family.
- Location: Al Karama | Barsha | JVC |
- Average cost for two: AED 70
- Contact: +971 4 336 9992
Whether you opt for the aromatic biryanis at Gazebo, the flavorful choices at Biryani Pot, or the global expansion of Student Biryani, Dubai's biryani offerings reflect the city's multicultural charm. So, whether you're a fan of classic recipes or eager to explore modern interpretations, Dubai's biryani scene invites you on a culinary journey that promises to satisfy your cravings for this timeless dish.