Mughlai Restaurant Trail In Old City, Hyderabad
Old City is a walled locality in Hyderabad, Telangana, reportedly built by Qutb Shahi sultan Muhammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 AD. While most of the wall exists as ruins, the area stands tall as a reminder of what Hyderabad used to be before the city became an IT hub, it's a hotspot for tourists, therefore, it is a hub for foodies as well.
Old City is where you can relish the authentic flavours of Hyderabadi cuisine. The bustling streets in the locality look more enticing when street vendors open their stalls to sell lip-smacking street food items. While exploring restaurants and Mughlai cuisine, you can also indulge in shopping for diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones and jewellery.
*Some restaurants listed in this trail serve non-vegetarian food, but have been added because they have good vegetarian options on their menu as well.
Shadab Hotel
Shadab Hotel, the popular restaurant in the heart of Old City, is celebrated for its authentic Mughlai and Hyderabadi cuisine. While it is renowned for its flavorful biryanis, the restaurant also has a terrific selection of succulent kebabs. You’ll find all the classics from hariyal kebab and tangri kebab to kalmi kebab and tandoori chicken. Their kebabs are grilled to perfection, and intensely seasoned and they have a decadent flavour profile that’s high on savoury notes. They also make a mean chicken 65 which has many takers.
Kabab-e-Jahangiri
Their seekh kebab with roti at Kabab-e-Jahangiri is the most popular order. You get some amazingly juicy tala hua gosht at just Rs 50 and you can pair it with their crispy paratha. At around Rs 120, you can buy enough kebabs and roti for two people, which is the best thing about this joint. It’s quite close to the Charminar and most people head to Kabab-e-Jahangiri for a hearty and economical lunch after a trip to the historic monument.
Hotel Rumaan
This hidden gem near Nizam Colony is known for its authentic Hyderabadi kebabs and other specialities. The restaurant captures the essence of local flavours, and its kebabs are celebrated for their exquisite taste and old-school preparation. The rustic charm of the ambience adds to the overall dining experience, making it a favourite among those seeking genuine Hyderabadi cuisine. Besides kebabs, some other signatures include Mirchi Ka Salan, Khichadi Kheema Khatta, Usmani Biscuit and Khichdi Kheema.
Hotel Nayaab
Hotel Nayaab, nestled in the Darulshifa neighborhood, is a legendary establishment known for its authentic Haleem and an array of Hyderabadi classics. The unpretentious ambiance and bustling atmosphere provide a genuine local dining experience. We were captivated by their delightful Haleem, which struck a perfect balance of flavors!
Iqbal Restaurant
In the Old City, Hyderabad, you can visit Iqbal Restaurant to taste the flavour of Hyderabadi and Mughlai cuisine without poking a hole in your pocket. It is a small food joint that serves lip-smacking chicken biryani, nihari sherwa, chicken kebab, and mutton talava. Many of the dishes can be ordered at the price of full or half-plate, making it easier for working professionals to relish a delicious meal at pocket-friendly prices without worrying about wastage.
Roshan Biryani House
You can hardly find a person who would say that they are not a fan of biryani. Basmati rice and seasoned meat pieces are layered and slowly cooked to perfection so that every bite is a burst of flavour in your mouth. Roshan Biryani House is a budget-friendly spot in Old City, Hyderabad, where you can relish chicken biryani and mutton biryani along with omelette paratha and Shami paratha.
Mehboob Kalyani Biryani
Another place in Old City that serves delicious but budget-friendly biryani is Mehboob Kalyani Biryani. It is a small makeshift joint that sells mutton biryani. In the holy month of Ramadan, you can also visit them to purchase a meal for your Sehri as the owner sets up the stall at 5.00 am in the morning. The biryani is available at half and full-plate prices, depending on the quantity customers are looking to buy.
