Because why settle for anything less?
Biryani has a way of sneaking up on you. You think you know rice—basic, dependable, no big deal. Then, one day, you meet biryani, and it’s like, “Oh, so this is what rice can do.” It starts with the scent—warm spices rising up, promising something more than the usual. Suddenly, rice isn’t just filler; it’s the star, carrying layers of flavor that demand attention. Whether it’s a tough day or just a regular one, biryani has this uncanny ability to make things better.
In Egypt, the biryani scene is quietly impressive. From hole-in-the-wall spots to more polished restaurants, there’s a biryani for everyone—spicy, mild, meat-packed, or veggie-friendly. So, if you’re ready to see what all the fuss is about, here’s where you should be heading. Because, yes, rice really can be that good.
Namaste Indian Restaurant | Ramses Hilton, Downtown
Craving a biryani that satisfies your vegetarian soul? Namaste’s got you covered. Not only do they whip up a killer classic biryani, but their vegetarian and vegan options are not to be missed.
Maharaja | Branches all over Egypt
Maharaja nails the authentic Indian vibe, and their biryani? It’s the next best thing to flying to Mumbai. With locations all over Egypt, you won’t have to travel far to satisfy your craving.
Charminar | 96 Taha Al-Dinari St., Nasr City
Spice lovers, this one’s for you. Charminar doesn’t hold back on the heat, and their biryani is proof. It’s packed with bold spices that’ll leave your taste buds doing a happy dance.
India Gate | Branches all over Egypt
Why settle for one biryani when you can have five? India Gate’s biryani menu is stacked with options: plain, fish, prawn, vegetable, or lamb. And when you’re done demolishing that biryani, there’s an equally drool-worthy dessert list to choose from.
Red Elephant | 4 Suez Canal St., Mohandessin
Sure, Red Elephant serves up the traditional biryani you know and love, but the real game changer? Their vegetable biryani casserole. This twist on the classic is rich, hearty, and an absolute must-try.
Indo Bangla Restaurant | 9 Al Manyal Museum, Manyal
Tucked away in the streets of Manyal, this hidden gem serves up authentic biryani that’ll transport you straight to the bustling alleys of Mumbai.
Miss Li Lee’s | Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed
Don’t let the pan-Asian menu fool you—Miss Li Lee’s biryani steals the show. The flavors are so bold, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Miss Li Lee’s proves you don’t need to specialize in biryani to totally nail it.
Indira | Holiday Inn City Stars, Nasr City
Indira’s Chef Vikram brings the full Indian experience to your plate, with a focus on rich flavors and top-tier hospitality. The biryani? Pure, spicy perfection.
TAO | Dusit Thani Hotel, New Cairo
To be honest, the Scene Eats editor stormed into my office to rave about the shrimp biryani from TAO. So, obviously, it’s that kind of dish—impossible to stay quiet about. You’ll know it’s special from the first bite, where the shrimp is perfectly tender and the biryani spices are layered just right.