Biryani is a very sensitive topic. Wars are fought between friends at hangouts and groups get divided by their preferences. Everyone swears by their favourite joints. That’s why I am a bit skeptical when it comes to trying a new biryani joint based on word-of-mouth. An exception came in 2012 when one of my friends recommended me Biryani Zone in Kadugodi. As usual, I was skeptical, but my friend was very confident that I’d like it - so much so, that he’d bet if I disliked the taste, the bill would be on him! Now, I thought about it for a moment and tagged along, thinking I had nothing to lose. What happened next? I ended up paying the bill for both of us, I was so bowled over, and thus began a love affair with Biryani Zone which continues till date.
Ambience and Decor: Biryani Zone had a very basic decor till date but has recently undergone a cosmetic makeover adding a touch of class to the interiors. Interiors look and feel much more welcoming now, though there is don’t get your expectations any high in terms of ambience. It’s a packed, bustling and busy restaurant, and though there is a usually a selection of 90s bollywood numbers playing everytime, it gets drowned by the hustle. Being such a busy place, customer service also takes a hit sometimes. I’d forgive the staff - I have seen how busy they are and still manage to serve you within 10-15 minutes of ordering.
Taste: No second thoughts. The queue of people waiting outside, the crowd buzzing inside - all will vouch for the taste of the Biryani here. The USP of this biryani is the preparation - cooked in earthern pots on wood fire using traditional methods, which adds to the aroma and the texture. The best of extra-long basmati rice is used for preparation and so are the selection of meats used. Personally I always opt for the Mutton biryani, though there are occasions when it gets sold out and I’d had to settle for Chicken biryani. Chicken biryani does taste good though not as great. The servings are decently sized and can serve two people, though sharing would leave your taste buds unsatiated and asking for more! One serving of mutton biryani contains about 6-8 medium sized chunks of well cooked mutton. Chicken biryani will have 4 larger sized chicken chunks.
Closing thoughts: At Rs.210 for a serving of mutton biryani, it is priced about average and on par with competing joints. I personally rate the taste as a notch above others, though supporters of other joints may disagree with me. I can only offer them the same bet which my friend offered me - join me for a biryani, and if you dislike the taste, the bill’s on me!