The biryani debate in India has reached an unexpected milestone. In a country where every region fiercely defends its version of biryani, Swiggy’s Restaurant Awards 2025 have crowned Bikkgane Biryani — a Delhi-based chain — as the best biryani spot in India.
For many, especially in biryani-obsessed cities like Hyderabad and Kolkata, this result came as a complete curveball.
Bikkgane Biryani, though born in Delhi, draws inspiration from Andhra-style biryani. Known for its bold, spicy flavors, the chain offers a wide range of options, including chicken, mutton, egg, vegetarian, and regional specialties like Ulavacharu and Gongura biryanis.
With multiple outlets across the country, Bikkgane has earned a reputation for consistent, flavorful biryani with punchy masalas and generous portions.
Their win wasn’t arbitrary. It was backed by over 6 million public votes from diners across 130+ cities — making it a true popularity contest, and one that Bikkgane decisively won.
For years, Hyderabadi biryani — with its fragrant layers and traditional dum cooking — has been the undisputed king.
Kolkata biryani, with its delicate flavors, saffron notes, and signature potato, holds its own loyal following. Naturally, when neither of these classics took the crown, the internet had questions.
The answer may be simpler than expected: Bikkgane’s biryani is highly accessible. It delivers enough spice to satisfy enthusiasts, offers consistent quality, and is widely available — making it easy for Swiggy users nationwide to try and vote for.
But nothing changes the essence of biryani. Hyderabadi biryani will still captivate with its richness, Kolkata biryani will still charm with its subtlety.
This win doesn’t diminish the deep-rooted traditions behind these iconic styles; it simply highlights that India's food preferences are evolving, with more people open to newer interpretations.
Food, after all, is subjective. This award captures just a moment in time, reflecting what Swiggy users ordered, loved, and voted for. The biryani debate isn’t over — it’s just entered a new chapter.
For now, Bikkgane holds the crown. Until the next plate is served.