Craving fragrant rice, tender meat, and bold spices? Few dishes can compare to a hearty plate of briyani, where every bite bursts with flavour and comfort. In KL, food lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding authentic and satisfying briyani. Here are five spots that have earned a loyal following for their portions and variety.
Mollagaa Restaurant
Tucked in Lebuh Ampang, Mollagaa Restaurant adds South Indian flair to the city’s dining options. Their briyani is often described as robust, with layers of spiced rice and well-marinated meats that satisfy even the biggest appetites. The restaurant is particularly loved for its homestyle cooking, which reminds many of traditional recipes passed down through generations. Its central location makes it easy for office workers and city dwellers to drop by for a fulfilling lunch or dinner.
Must Try: Nalli Briyani
IG: @mollagaarestaurant
📍 50A, Lebuh Ampang, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur
🕒 11am–10pm (Daily) 📞 016-552 6777
Kaara Saaram Claypot
Kaara Saaram Claypot offers a unique way by serving briyani in claypots, which helps lock in moisture and deepen the flavour. Each order arrives piping hot, releasing a cloud of spice-laden steam that sets the tone for a satisfying meal. Their claypot cooking style not only enhances the aroma but also ensures a slightly crisp layer of rice at the bottom and that became a favourite among fans. Located in Bandar Sunway, it has become a hotspot for students and young professionals looking for something different from the usual.
Must Try: Claypot Briyani
IG: @kaarasaaramclaypot
📍 15G, Jalan PJS 11/28b, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya
🕒 11am–11pm (Daily) 📞 012-627 2526
Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant
With roots tracing back to Tamil Nadu, India, Dindigul Thalappakatti has built a reputation for authentic South Indian briyani. The brand is known for using seeraga samba rice, a small-grained variety that absorbs spices beautifully and gives a distinctive taste. The restaurant in Brickfields carries the same legacy, offering briyani that is both flavourful and comforting. Patrons often commend the consistency of taste and the way each serving feels like a piece of tradition brought to the table.
Must Try: Chicken 65
📍 130, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
🕒 11am–11pm 📞 03-2272 1500
Briyani Asif
Known among locals as a go-to for generous servings, Briyani Asif delivers rich flavours that linger long after the meal ends. The rice is cooked with aromatic spices that seep into every grain, while the meat is slow-cooked to tenderness. The restaurant has become a staple for groups and families who enjoy dining together over hearty plates. Many regulars praise its balance of portion and price, making it a trusted name in KL’s briyani scene.
Must Try: Chicken Briyani
📍 7 & 9, Jalan Padang, Lorong Walter Grenier, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
🕒 10am–12am (Daily) 📞 03-2110 3220
Bhai Briyani
Bhai Biryani is a name that resonates with KLites who crave strong, spice-forward flavours. Their dishes are known for their depth, with tender cuts of meat layered between fluffy rice, all cooked together for maximum taste. Portions are large, making it a favourite for those who believe briyani should be enjoyed to the fullest. The OUG Parklane branch is particularly lively, attracting crowds who don’t mind queuing for a guaranteed flavour-packed meal.
Must Try: Mutton Briyani
📍 A2, Ground Floor, A2 – 0, OUG Parklane, 23A, Jalan 1/152, Taman Perindustrian OUG, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
🕒 11am–11pm (Daily) 📞 012-989 1949
India Gate
India Gate has gained attention for its Hyderabadi-style briyani, prepared with long-grained basmati rice and richly spiced gravies. The meat options are tender and aromatic, but what stands out is the depth of flavour that comes from slow cooking. Many patrons highlight the mutton briyani as a must-try, while the chicken 65 briyani has developed its own fan base. It’s a spot where portions are satisfying, and the atmosphere makes it easy to linger over a plate of briyani!
Must Try: Mutton Briyani
📍 26, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
🕒 11am-12am (Daily) 📞 011-3301 1930
These five spots in KL and PJ showcase how briyani continues to bring people together. The next time hunger strikes, let briyani be your answer.
Image credits: Google Reviews
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