Hyderabad’s Old City is a living postcard of history, with the Charminar’s silhouette watching over bustling lanes filled with sizzling grills, fragrant spice shops, and mithai counters that have seen generations pass by. This is where food isn’t just eaten—it’s experienced, often standing shoulder-to-shoulder with locals at stalls that have been around for decades. If you’re hungry for authentic Hyderabadi flavors, here’s your trail through the Old City’s most delicious stops.
🍢 Kebab Lane – Sheek & Seekh Delights
Near the bustling Madina Building, a row of kebab joints perfumes the air with the scent of charcoal. Try melt-in-the-mouth seekh kebabs at Shah Ghouse Café or the smoky boti kebabs at Hotel Shadab. Each bite carries the rich legacy of Mughlai flavors.
- Must-Try: Sheek kebab, boti kebab with roomali roti
- Pro Tip: Go in the evening when the grills are freshest and the crowds lively.
🍲 Haleem Heaven – Seasonal & Soulful
Come Ramadan, the Old City turns into a haleem paradise. Pista House and Shah Ghouse serve bowls of this slow-cooked mutton, wheat, and lentil delicacy topped with ghee-fried cashews and fried onions. It’s rich, hearty, and worth every calorie.
- Must-Try: Special mutton haleem
- Pro Tip: Visit in Ramadan for the best version—but it’s available year-round at select spots.
🍛 Biryani Central – Old City Icons
While biryani spots are scattered across Hyderabad, Old City’s Hotel Shadab and Grand Hotel serve versions that are fiercely loved by locals. Long-grain basmati rice, tender mutton, and just the right amount of spice make this a must on your trail.
- Must-Try: Mutton biryani with mirchi ka salan
- Pro Tip: Ask for half portions if you want to save space for more food stops.
🥟 Snacks & Street Bites – From Samosas to Qubani
Between the big meals, snack your way through roadside samosas stuffed with spicy potato, mirchi bajjis, and Osmania biscuits at Nimrah Café. Wash it down with Irani chai while people-watching against the Charminar backdrop.
- Must-Try: Osmania biscuits with chai, mirchi bajji
- Pro Tip: Perfect for a mid-trail sugar and spice pick-me-up.
🍮 Dessert Finale – Sweet Endings at Hameedi
End your trail with the famous Jauzi Halwa at Hameedi Confectioners, a century-old shop. This caramel-toned sweet is rich, nutty, and a true Hyderabadi classic.
- Must-Try: Jauzi halwa, badam ki jaali
- Pro Tip: Buy extra—it makes a great souvenir.
💳 Trail Tip: With so many small shops and stalls, carrying cash can be a hassle. Use Mony UPI for quick, fuss-free payments, so you can focus on eating your way through history.