San Francisco's Best Biryani [Updated 2025]

From street carts to upscale restaurants, this city is bursting with flavors that pay homage to this beloved dish.

I’ve had the pleasure of tasting and reviewing twelve different biryanis, each with its unique twist and fragrant spices.

Whether you're a fan of traditional Hyderabadi biryani or gravitate towards the creative variations offered by local chefs, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant culinary landscape.

Join me as I take you on a flavorful journey through San Francisco, showcasing the top spots to satisfy your biryani cravings!

Biryani Best

Biryani Best definitely lives up to its name with a vibrant blend of spices that ignites the senses. The first bite of their chicken biryani revealed tender, marinated meat nestled in perfectly cooked, fragrant rice. I was captivated by the balance of flavors — a hint of saffron, a whisper of mint, and a delightful crunch from the crispy onions. The raita on the side added a refreshing touch, cutting through the spices beautifully. If you're in San Francisco and craving biryani, Biryani Best is not to be missed. It’s a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds!

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Nepa Indian Cuisine

Highlights
Takeout recommended
Staff overwhelmed often
Beautiful indoor decor
Hot and stuffy atmosphere
Inconsistent food quality

Nestled in the heart of the city, Nepa Indian Cuisine promises an intriguing culinary adventure, especially for biryani enthusiasts like myself. Upon entering, I was greeted by a beautifully adorned interior, exuding warmth and charm—though the hot and stuffy atmosphere gave me a slight pause. I sensed the vibe of a bustling restaurant, where the staff appeared occasionally overwhelmed but ever so friendly.

My order was primarily for their biryani, which I had high hopes for. However, the experience proved inconsistent. While the spices danced delightfully, the textures of the rice and meat were sometimes lackluster. It felt as if I was gambling with each bite—one moment tasting a burst of flavor, the next encountering an underwhelming mouthful. Despite the ups and downs, I recommend takeout here. The biryani survives the journey home remarkably well and offers a decent fix for a biryani craving.

In the end, while Nepa has charming aesthetics and potential, I might keep my search alive for the perfect biryani in San Francisco. But hey, at least I walked away with a little culinary adventure!

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Sunset Indian Cuisine

Highlights
Delicious chicken biryani
Generous portion sizes
Polite and helpful staff
Highly recommended by locals
Great for sharing with friends

Sunset Indian Cuisine is a delightful spot that has a special place in my heart (and stomach!) when it comes to biryani. As I stepped inside, the aromatic wafts of spices captivated me, setting the stage for what was to come. I opted for their chicken biryani, which turned out to be a masterpiece. The rice was perfectly cooked—each grain was separate, fluffy, and infused with just the right balance of spices.

One of the standout features of this dish was the generous portion size. It was enough to serve a small group, making it an ideal choice for a gathering with friends. Speaking of friends, the inviting atmosphere and the polite staff added to the overall experience, as they effortlessly navigated my questions and recommendations.

Highly recommended by locals, Sunset Indian Cuisine truly lives up to the hype. The combination of scrumptious flavor and a welcoming environment makes it a spot to revisit frequently. So, whether you’re a biryani aficionado or a curious newbie, this place is sure to satisfy your cravings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Aaha Indian Cuisine

Highlights
Great food and service
Amazing ambiance
Nice sit-down atmosphere
Mixed reviews on biryani
Good appetizers

At Aaha Indian Cuisine, I was welcomed by a warm ambiance that felt just right for a cozy meal. As I sat down, the cheerful staff made sure my every need was attended to, enhancing the overall dining experience. With the enticing aroma wafting through the air, I eagerly anticipated the biryani, a dish that I hold in high regard.

As I delved into the biryani, I found myself in a slight conundrum. While the spices were well-balanced, giving a delightful warmth, I felt it lacked the rich depth that distinguishes truly exceptional biryani. The rice was fluffy and cooked to perfection, yet many biryani lovers might desire just a bit more authenticity—perhaps in the marination or the layering process.

However, don’t let the mixed reviews deter you! The appetizers here are a true delight, providing a wonderful start to your meal. Aaha is definitely a place where you can indulge in flavorful dishes and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. With its great food and service, this spot is a solid choice for anyone looking to embark on a tantalizing culinary journey in the heart of San Francisco.

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Aditi Indian Cuisine

Highlights
Amazing staff service
Spicy Vijayawada chicken biryani
Congested dining space
Dry and flavorless biryani
Worn out atmosphere

Aditi Indian Cuisine is a delightful spot that beckons biryani lovers with its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming staff. Upon entering, I was instantly charmed by the energy, though I must admit that the closely knit dining space can feel a bit congested during peak hours. However, I was soon distracted by the aromas wafting from the kitchen!

I opted for the Spicy Vijayawada chicken biryani, a dish that promised a fiery punch. My excitement was palpable as I dove in, but I must confess, the flavors didn’t quite meet my expectations. The biryani, while beautifully layered, unfortunately ended up being a tad dry and lacked the rich, aromatic nuances I seek in a stellar biryani experience.

On the brighter side, the staff at Aditi shines with their quick and attentive service, which deserves a commendation. It’s the kind of place where you feel well taken care of, even if the food doesn’t quite hit the mark. Overall, Aditi is great for a casual outing, but if you’re chasing that perfect biryani, you might want to keep searching.

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Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

Highlights
Generous portion sizes
Tender meat and flavorful dishes
Friendly and accommodating staff
Authentic spices in the food
Affordable options for quality

Walking into Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant, I was instantly greeted by the inviting aroma of authentic spices wafting from the kitchen. As someone on a quest to uncover the best biryani in San Francisco, I couldn’t resist ordering their much-lauded biryani.

The portion size was impressively generous, enough to satisfy even the most ravenous diners. The rice, perfectly cooked and fluffed, cradled tender pieces of meat that seemed to dance in the rich, vibrant flavors. Each bite was an explosion of taste, a delightful balance of spices that felt both familiar and exciting—like a warm hug from an old friend.

The staff here were as charming as the food. They were not just friendly but also accommodating, genuinely eager to enhance my dining experience. For those who often worry about prices in this city, fear not; Mashaallah offers affordable options without skimping on quality.

In the world of biryani, where each plate tells a story, my meal here felt like a comforting narrative—inviting, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. If you're in San Francisco, don't miss this gem; it's a must-visit for any biryani enthusiast!

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Trisara

Highlights
Fantastic Chicken Momos
Quick and attentive service
Free chai and samosa offer
Pleasant dining atmosphere
Lamb Korma highly recommended

Trisara in San Francisco is a delightful culinary gem that had me diving headfirst into a flavor explosion! Upon entering, I was welcomed by a pleasant dining atmosphere that set the perfect stage for an indulgent meal. Their service was impressively quick and attentive, which made my experience even more enjoyable.

I kicked things off with their fantastic chicken momos, which were an enticing prelude to the main event. But let’s talk about the biryani! Richly spiced and beautifully fragrant, each bite was a dance of textures and flavors, making it clear that this place takes its craft seriously. The complimentary chai and samosa offer was like a cherry on top—who doesn’t love a little extra?

Though I hadn’t intended to stray from biryani, I couldn't help but hear whispers about the lamb korma, which came highly recommended. It lived up to the hype and left me eagerly planning my return visit. If you're searching for an unforgettable biryani experience in San Francisco, Trisara is where it’s at! 🥘 Treat yourself; you won't be disappointed!

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Noe Indian Cuisine

Highlights
Generous Portions
Delicious Chicken Biryani
Exceptional Customer Service
Complimentary Masala Chai Refills
Cute and Inviting Atmosphere

Nestled in the charming Noe Valley, Noe Indian Cuisine is a delightful gem that truly elevates the biryani experience. The first thing that caught my eye was the inviting atmosphere—it's cute and cozy, perfect for a casual dinner or a special outing. As I settled in, I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional customer service; the staff made me feel right at home, even offering complimentary masala chai refills that were rich and flavorful.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken biryani. Oh, what a masterpiece! The portions were generous, bringing a mountain of fluffy basmati rice topped with tender, marinated chicken that danced with spice in every bite. Each mouthful was a well-orchestrated symphony of flavors—savory, aromatic, and utterly satisfying.

I must admit, indulging in that bowl of biryani was like wrapping myself in a warm, flavorful hug. If you're on the hunt for the best biryani in San Francisco, look no further. Noe Indian Cuisine has firmly secured its place on my list, and I can't wait to return for more!

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Himalayan Cuisine SF

At Himalayan Cuisine SF, the biryani is a delightful dance of flavors and textures. The aroma hits you as soon as you enter, promising a culinary journey. I opted for their Chicken Biryani, which boasted perfectly cooked rice, succulent pieces of chicken, and a burst of aromatic spices. Each bite was a warm embrace, and the saffron-infused rice was a standout. Paired with their tangy raita, it’s comfort food at its finest. If you're craving biryani that feels both homey and exotic, this is the place to be. Don't miss this gem in the heart of the city!

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Pakwan Restaurant

At Pakwan Restaurant, the biryani was a delightful journey for my taste buds! The aromatic blend of spices enveloped tender pieces of chicken, making each bite a culinary embrace. The fluffy basmati rice danced with a medley of flavors, while the charming ambiance added to the experience. I particularly loved the hints of saffron, which elevated the dish to new heights. Their signature raita perfectly balanced the spices, offering a refreshing contrast. If you’re on a quest for the best biryani in the city, Pakwan will not disappoint! It’s a must-try for any biryani enthusiast!

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Marina Indian Cuisine

Marina Indian Cuisine is a delightful haven for biryani lovers. Upon entering, the warm, inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a culinary adventure. I ordered the chicken biryani, and oh, was it a treat! The aromatic basmati rice was perfectly fluffy, nestled alongside tender pieces of chicken, all imbued with a symphony of spices that danced on my palate. Each bite felt like a little celebration! The portion was generous, making it a fantastic value. If you're on a quest for the best biryani in San Francisco, this spot should definitely top your list. Don’t miss out!

Taj Indian Cuisine

Taj Indian Cuisine serves a delectable chicken biryani that dances on the palate with each fragrant bite. The layers of aromatic basmati rice, tender marinated chicken, and the perfect blend of spices create a harmony that is simply irresistible. The heat is just right, allowing the flavors to shine without overwhelming the senses. Paired with a cooling raita, this dish transforms into an unforgettable feast. The cozy ambiance adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for biryani lovers. If you're on a quest for the best biryani in San Francisco, Taj is definitely worth a visit!