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Where to Find the Best Biryani in America

A city-by-city guide to Hyderabadi dum biryani, Lucknowi biryani, and other regional styles across the USA.

Biryani is one of the most searched Indian dishes in America. From the dum biryani of Hyderabad to the lighter Lucknowi style, here's where to find the best.

Top Cities for Biryani

  • Houston, TX — The Hillcroft corridor has some of the most authentic Hyderabadi biryani outside of India.
  • Edison, NJ — A dense concentration of biryani specialists on Oak Tree Road.
  • Chicago, IL — Devon Avenue's restaurants serve both Hyderabadi and North Indian biryani styles.
  • Bay Area, CA — Fremont and Santa Clara have a strong South Indian biryani tradition.

Regional Biryani Styles to Know

| Style | Origin | Key characteristics |
|-------|--------|-------------------|
| Hyderabadi | Hyderabad | Dum-cooked, whole spices, saffron |
| Lucknowi | Lucknow | Fragrant, subtle, cooked separately |
| Kolkata | Kolkata | Potato and egg added, less spicy |
| Dindigul | Tamil Nadu | Seeraga samba rice, tangy |