Ask any Leicester local where to find the most authentic, mouthwatering biryani in the city, and two restaurants will top the list – Biryani wala and Hyderabad wala. Both establishments serve incredible Hyderabadi-style biryani along with other regional Indian dishes.
But which restaurant truly comes out on top for the title of best biryani in Leicester? Let’s compare the menus, flavors, and signature dishes at each to see who wows biryanis lovers’ tastebuds the most.
Overview of Biryani wala
Located on Melton Road, Biryani wala has become renowned for its extensive biryani options as well as curries and kebabs with bold, traditional flavors.
Some highlights of their offerings include:
- Special Biryanis – Unique options like fish, quail, shrimp biryani.
- Chicken Biryani – Their signature succulent, flavorful chicken biryani.
- Vegetarian Curries – Extensive navratan, korma, saag options.
- Lamb Curries – Tender lamb in rogan josh, bhuna, and vindaloo.
- Dum Ka Murgh – Chicken slowly cooked in a sealed pot with spices.
- Indo-Chinese – Creative options like chicken 65 biryani and chili paneer.
Biryani wala prides itself on traditional preparation methods and recipes that transport you to Hyderabad.
Overview of Hyderabad wala
Found on Belgrave Road, Hyderabad wala is another top choice for biryani lovers craving authentic flavors. Their menu highlights include:
- Chicken Biryani – A house specialty marinated and cooked to perfection.
- Vegetarian Biryani – Utterly flavorful and packed with veggies.
- Kebabs – Seekh, shami, chicken malai options cooked in the clay oven.
- Hyderabadi Specials – Nihari lamb, haleem, and paya dishes.
- Chicken Curry – Creamy butter chicken, chettinad chicken, and more.
- Vegetarian Curries – Dal makhani, baingan bharta, saag aloo.
- Desserts – Traditional options like kheer, gulab jamun, and kulfi.
Hyderabad wala provides classic biryani recipes straight from Hyderabad.
Comparing the Food
When it comes to the most important factor – the food – both Biryani wala and Hyderabad wala excel in authentic and boldly flavored dishes. However, there are some notable differences:
- Biryani wala edges ahead with a wider biryani selection including quail, shrimp and fish not offered at Hyderabad wala. Their creative Indo-chinese biryanis are also unique.
- Hyderabad wala’s meat curries seem a bit richer and more tender. Their vegetarian curries also have a homemade taste.
- For classic chicken biryani, Hyderabad wala’s secret marinade and slightly smoky flavor gives them the advantage. Biryani wala’s is also tasty but relies on food coloring for aesthetic.
- When it comes to kebabs from the clay oven, Hyderabad wala has the upper hand with perfect smoky char.
- Biryani wala has an extensive dum ka murgh menu while Hyderabad wala lacks the sealed pot cooked chicken dishes.
- Hyderabad wala offers traditional desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Biryani wala has fewer indulgent options.
So while both serve stand-out biryani in Leicester, Hyderabad wala edges ahead on execution of classic dishes and authenticity. But Biryani wala wins for innovative flavors and diversity.
The Verdict
Based on tastiness of signature dishes, authenticity and consistency, Hyderabad wala is the winner in the battle for best biryani in Leicester. Their trademark chicken biryani, kebabs, curries, and sides stay true to Hyderabadi traditions – the smell of their slow cooked meats and spices transports you to India immediately.
However, Biryani wala absolutely deserves recognition for their inventive biryani varieties, fusion flavors, and breadth of options. So foodies looking for both classic and modern twists on biryani will be happy at either restaurant. When it comes to the purest Hyderabadi-style biryani in Leicester though, Hyderabad wala triumphs. Just be prepared for a wait during peak dinner hours!
About the Restaurants
Biryani wala
Address: 28B Melton Rd, Leicester LE4 5EA
Phone: 0116 266 0204
Hyderabad wala
Address: 154 Belgrave Rd, Leicester LE4 6AS
Phone: 0116 266 5757
So head to these Leicester institutions to taste two variations of unbelievable biryani. While both restaurants do the cuisine justice, Hyderabad wala offers an edge of authenticity – though Biryani wala satisfies those craving innovative new flavors. Whatever your preference, your tastebuds are sure to celebrate!
