When it comes to food, Hyderabad is not just another Indian city—it’s a paradise for food lovers. Famous for its centuries-old culinary traditions influenced by Mughlai, Turkish, and Arabic flavours, the city has something to offer everyone. From aromatic biryanis to rich desserts, Hyderabad is a perfect destination for those who want to indulge in authentic and flavorful dishes.
Starting from forts to mosques, there are a lot of things that you should never miss in Hyderabad, the south India part. At the same time, there are a few things that you should taste in Hyderabad. More than anything else, Hyderabadis showcase their cuisine to the world. If you’re planning a trip or just curious about the food scene, here are 8 must-eat dishes in Hyderabad that you simply cannot miss.
- Paya Curry
This is for those seeking a substantial breakfast. It is a Nawabian flavoured goat thigh bone in stew with hot steaming naan or paratha. The spicy flavour of the curry would seep into the naan.
- Pathar ka goshti
Marinated mutton pieces are simmered over a large stone. The mutton is cut into small pieces and mixed with strong flavours and marinated for several hours. This marinated mutton is slowly cooked over a charcoal flame and served steaming hot. This is a delicacy for meat lovers and can be found in most of the local stores.
- Haleem
Hyderabad is almost synonymous with Haleem, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. This slow-cooked dish is made with wheat, lentils, meat (usually mutton), ghee, and spices, creating a rich, porridge-like texture. It is simmered for hours, making it both nutritious and delicious. With its soft, melt-in-the-mouth taste, Haleem is not just food—it’s an experience. Pista House is globally renowned for serving some of the best Haleem in the city.
- Spicy brinjal
Do you know that Hyderabad is known for its spicy food? Taste the spicy brinjal tempered with aromatic flavours and oil. This was one of the dishes that were served in the court of the Nawab.
- Hyderabadi Biriyani
No list about Hyderabad’s food can start without mentioning its world-famous Hyderabadi Biryani. This iconic dish is made with fragrant basmati rice, tender marinated meat (often chicken or mutton), saffron, and a unique blend of spices. Cooked in a traditional dum style, the flavours seep into every grain of rice. Served with mirchi ka salan (chilli curry) and raita, this dish is the soul of Hyderabad’s food culture. Paradise, Bawarchi, and Shadab are some of the top spots to try it.
- Ghee-flavoured kichadi
Kichadi is a common dish in South India and in some parts of North India too. But, the ghee-flavoured rice blended kichadi of Hyderabad has a unique nut flavour and spicy taste.
- Sugar apricot
Khubani ka meeta is a simple delicacy that is made with apricots. Apricot is boiled in sugar water till it become utterly soft. These sweet balls are garnished with nuts and served with ice cream or malai. This is a treat for all sweet lovers.
- Qabooli biriyani
Biriyani is not just for non-vegetarians. This is a spicy flavoured vegetarian-style steamed biriyani. It has a strong spicy flavour and you can taste some burly tangy flavour now and then.
Another delightful dessert from Hyderabad is Qubani Ka Meetha, made with dried apricots. The apricots are soaked overnight and cooked slowly until they turn into a thick, luscious mixture, which is then topped with cream or custard. This royal dessert is light, fruity, and makes a refreshing end to a spicy Hyderabadi feast.
Often served as a side dish with biryani, Mirchi ka Salan is a flavorful curry made with large green chilies, tamarind, sesame seeds, coconut, and peanuts. Despite being chilli-based, it’s not overwhelmingly spicy but instead has a tangy and nutty flavour. This dish is a perfect representation of the balance of taste that Hyderabadi cuisine is known for.
Hyderabad is more than just the city of pearls—it’s a city of flavours. From the legendary Hyderabadi Biryani to the comforting Irani Chai, every dish tells a story of the city’s rich cultural past and vibrant present. Whether you are a traveller exploring India or a foodie hunting for authentic tastes, Hyderabad’s cuisine promises to leave you spellbound.
So, the next time you find yourself in Hyderabad, don’t just visit the landmarks—take a food trail and experience these 8 must-eat dishes that make the city truly unforgettable.
These are the top in my list, and the list does not stop here. Starting from the pumpkin delicacy to the tender mutton soup, this land has a strong and memorable flavour that sticks to your tongue and in the depths of your conscious every time you think about this land. There are no ends of taste in India. While you are travelling, you must try these foods. While you are travelling in India, you can also try some luxurious facilities & foods with luxury trains in India, like Maharaja Express & Palace on Wheels, Golden Chariot, Deccan Odyssey.
