Idrees Ki Biryani, Raja Bazar, Chowk, Lucknow

Idrees Biryani, Raja Bazar, Lucknow

Idrees Biryani isn’t your typical Lucknow eatery. Founded in 1968 by Mohammad Idrees, this hidden gem boasts a family recipe passed down through generations, creating some of the most delightful biryani in the city. Despite its humble beginnings, the shop, now run by Idrees’ sons Mohammad Abu Bakr and Mohammad Abu Hamza, has garnered a loyal following, attracting not only residents but also prominent actors like Imtiaz Ali, and Ashish Vidhyarthi and Chefs like Sanjeev Kapoor and Ranveer Brar.

This isn’t just about fame, though. The secret lies in the meticulous preparation process. Each Degh (large cooking pot) takes a full 3 hours to prepare, using unique techniques that set their biryani apart. Every Degh is inscribed with Mohammad Idrees Pata Nala in Urdu. Unlike many restaurants, they use a copper Degh oiled on the inside and cook over a Bhatti (clay oven) fueled by Pathar Ka Koyla (charcoal). This slow, Dum Pukht cooking style allows the flavors to develop beautifully, as the biryani steams with milk, malai (cream) broth, and a blend of fragrant herbs and light masalas. Abu Bakr himself has confirmed in one of the YouTube videos that it is an Awadhi Pulao because rice has Yakhni in it.

Located in the heart of Chowk, this third-generation eatery doesn’t need fancy marketing. They focus on what matters most: delicious food. Their menu is simple, featuring mutton stew, kulcha, sheermal, rumali roti, mutton, and chicken korma alongside their star dish, the melt-in-your-mouth mutton biryani. Using premium ingredients like arwa basmati rice and perfectly cooked, juicy mutton, they create a biryani experience that leaves customers wanting more.

Be prepared, though – with limited quantities cooked daily, this flavorful fare sells out fast. While you can dine in at the small shop, many opt for takeaway or home delivery. Just remember, their dedication to quality means specific opening hours. The shop operates daily, except for some days during Ramzan. They typically open for lunch from 12 noon to 3 pm, and again for dinner from 6 pm to 8:30 pm.

So, for a taste of Lucknow’s culinary heritage, look beyond the grand restaurants and seek out Idrees Biryani. This hidden gem proves that the most delicious experiences can be found in unexpected places.

Idrees Biryani Payment Options:

They don’t offer an online mode of payment. They currently only accept cash for payment. This means you cannot pay with a credit card, debit card, or any mobile wallet. Overall, while Idrees Ki Biryani’s cash-only policy might require some planning for customers, it might also contribute to its reputation for affordable and delicious biryani.

Reservation and Online Orders:

They also don’t accept any reservations. You’ll need to visit the shop in person to place your order and pay in cash. They are not on any online food delivery platform and don’t offer online delivery of their food items.

Idrees Ki Biryani Menu & Price List:

Mutton Biryani: Half – ₹160, Quarter – ₹90
Mutton Korma: Half – ₹160, Quarter – ₹90
Mutton Stew: Half – ₹170, Quarter – ₹100
Chicken Korma: Half – ₹140, Quarter – ₹80
Kulcha: ₹18 per piece
Sheermal: ₹16 per piece
Rumali Roti: ₹6 per piece

Please note that the prices listed here might not be the latest ones. It is always a good idea to visit the Idrees Biryani restaurant to confirm the latest menu and pricing information.

Idrees Biryani Address & Location on Google Map: