Best Biryani in San Diego, California
1
Khyber Pass Zarparan Restaurant
Afghan restaurant, Caterer, Halal restaurant, Persian restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 523 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Located in San Diego, California, Khyber Pass Zarparan Restaurant offers an authentic Afghan dining experience with generous portions of flavorful dishes ranging from tender kebabs to aromatic rice specialties. The establishment prides itself on serving halal meats and features an extensive menu that includes both traditional favorites and vegetarian options, all prepared with carefully balanced spices and fresh ingredients. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and attentive service have made it a long-standing fixture in the Hillcrest neighborhood, though parking can be challenging due to its busy urban location.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Numerous reviews praise the generous portion sizes, often noting that there was more food than expected and leftovers to take home.
Prices: Reviewers have differing opinions on affordability. Some consider the prices reasonable given the quality and portion sizes, while others find them expensive, especially considering the mandatory gratuity.
Parking: Parking is a recurring concern, with many reviews mentioning difficulty finding parking and suggesting paid lots or street parking as alternatives.
2
Casa Lahori
Pakistani restaurant, Afghan restaurant, Halal restaurant, Indian restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 11975 Bernardo Plaza Dr, San Diego, CA 92128
Casa Lahori in San Diego, California offers authentic Pakistani cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere with traditional decor and ample seating both indoors and outdoors. The menu features popular dishes like chicken tikka, biryani, and mixed grill platters prepared in their clay tandoor oven, while their family-style portions are perfect for group dining and special events. Though service times can vary during peak hours, the restaurant maintains a loyal following for their flavorful halal preparations and reasonable prices.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Many reviewers comment on the generous portion sizes, often mentioning that dishes easily feed multiple people. However, a few reviews noted smaller than expected portions.
Prices: Reviewers' opinions on pricing are mixed. Some find the prices reasonable or affordable, while others consider them expensive, especially in relation to portion size in some instances.
Parking: One review mentions the availability of ample parking. There is no other information regarding parking in the other reviews.
3
Charminar Indian Restaurant & Catering
Indian restaurant, Biryani restaurant, Caterer, Gluten-free restaurant, Halal restaurant, Lunch restaurant, Takeout Restaurant, Pakistani restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 6755 Mira Mesa Blvd Ste 111, San Diego, CA 92121
Charminar Indian Restaurant & Catering in San Diego, California stands out as a vibrant dining establishment specializing in authentic Hyderabadi cuisine and halal offerings. The restaurant's signature dish is their acclaimed biryani, which consistently draws praise for its authentic flavors and generous portions, while their diverse menu features everything from traditional curries to tandoori specialties. The elegant interior with intricate decor creates an inviting atmosphere, though service can be variable during peak hours.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Many reviewers describe portion sizes as generous, large, or ample. However, some reviews mention small portions, particularly in relation to the price.
Prices: Reviews are mixed regarding affordability. Some reviewers feel the prices are reasonable or a great value, especially for lunch specials. However, others complain about high prices, especially considering portion sizes in some cases.
Parking: The restaurant has ample parking, with multiple reviews mentioning this positive aspect. There is mention that the parking lot is a maze to get out of.
4
Royal India-Delmar
Indian restaurant, Halal restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 3860 Valley Centre Dr, San Diego, CA 92130
Royal India-Delmar in San Diego, California offers a diverse menu of traditional Indian cuisine in an elegant setting with both indoor and outdoor dining options. The restaurant features signature dishes like tandoori wings, various curry dishes, and biryani, with customizable spice levels to accommodate different preferences. The establishment provides an upscale dining experience with attentive service, though reviews of food quality and portion sizes tend to be mixed across different visits.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Reviews are mixed on portion sizes. Some mention generous portions, while others describe them as small or like "kids meals".
Prices: Many reviews mention high prices, with some describing the restaurant as overpriced. Others mention reasonable prices or affordable options, indicating mixed opinions on the value.
Parking: One review mentions "lots of free parking". The parking situation is not discussed in other reviews.
5
Spice Lounge
Indian restaurant, Gluten-free restaurant, Halal restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Wine bar
Price Range: $$
Address: 859 Hornblend St, San Diego, CA 92109
Spice Lounge in San Diego, California offers a diverse menu of authentic Indian cuisine in a modern, plant-filled setting with a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in both traditional curry dishes and innovative fusion items, with particularly strong offerings for vegetarian and vegan diners. The establishment stands out for its expertly crafted cocktails, attentive service, and flexible spice level customization that caters to different palates.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Reviews are mixed on portion sizes. Some describe portions as generous or enough for two meals, while others complain of small portions, particularly relative to the price.
Prices: Reviews are mixed regarding affordability. Some reviewers find the prices reasonable or good value, while others find them expensive or overpriced, especially given the portion sizes.
Parking: The reviews do not mention parking.
6
Ariana Produce & Cuisine
Restaurant, Afghan restaurant, Asian restaurant, Biryani restaurant, Butcher shop, Dairy, Halal restaurant, Persian restaurant, Produce market, Supermarket
Address: 11261 Camino Ruiz #3, San Diego, CA 92126
Ariana Produce & Cuisine in San Diego, California, stands out as a recently renovated halal establishment that combines a butcher shop with an upcoming restaurant space. The store specializes in fresh, high-quality meats including goat, lamb, and chicken, while also offering an expanding selection of authentic spices and grocery items. The establishment has garnered attention for its evolving menu of Middle Eastern and Indian dishes, with particular praise for their kabobs and traditional preparations that customers say remind them of home cooking.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Portion sizes are not discussed in the provided reviews.
Prices: One review mentions prices as "outrageous," while others do not comment on pricing.
Parking: The reviews do not provide information about parking.
7
Royal India - San Diego
Indian restaurant, Banquet hall, Caterer, Fine dining restaurant, Halal restaurant, Restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 329 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101
Royal India in San Diego, California, is a traditional Indian restaurant nestled in the bustling Gaslamp District serving up an extensive menu of authentic North Indian cuisine. The establishment offers a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with popular dishes including their lamb specialties, butter chicken, and various biryanis served in a warmly decorated dining space. While some diners praise the authentic flavors and attentive service, others note varying experiences with portion sizes and pricing in this downtown dining spot.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Reviews on portion sizes are mixed. Some describe portions as generous, filling, or a good amount for sharing, while others mention small portions, especially for appetizers or to-go orders.
Prices: Opinions on pricing are divided. Some reviewers find the prices reasonable or inexpensive, while others consider them expensive or not worth the value, especially considering the portion sizes.
Parking: Parking is mentioned as a challenge by several reviewers, particularly in the downtown location. Reviewers suggest that finding parking can be difficult or terribly painful.
8
Paradise Biryani Pointe
Indian restaurant, Halal restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 8995 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92126
Paradise Biryani Pointe in San Diego, California offers a diverse menu of authentic Indian cuisine, specializing in their signature biryani dishes and fusion creations like Indian-style pizzas. The casual dining spot serves generously portioned meals with a range of spice levels, featuring popular items like butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, and various curry dishes. The restaurant maintains a relaxed atmosphere with ample seating and convenient parking, making it a practical choice for both dine-in and takeout customers looking for flavorful Indian food at reasonable prices.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Many reviewers comment on generous portion sizes, often mentioning enough food for two meals. However, a few reviews mention smaller portions than expected.
Prices: Reviewers frequently praise the affordable prices and good value. A few mention prices being high, particularly for the amount of food offered.
Parking: Several reviews mention easy parking as a positive aspect of the restaurant.
9
Deccan Bites
Halal restaurant, Fast food restaurant, Indian restaurant
Address: 9810 Carroll Canyon Rd ste 102, San Diego, CA 92131
Deccan Bites in San Diego, California offers a vibrant mix of halal fast food with influences from both Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant is known for its signature items including perfectly spiced broasted chicken, authentic Irani chai with bun maska, and flavorful chicken shawarma that keeps customers coming back. The warm atmosphere and attentive service complement their diverse menu which features everything from crispy zingers to traditional favorites, all prepared according to halal standards with fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Some reviews mention generous portions, while others note smaller portion sizes, particularly for sides. There are conflicting opinions.
Prices: Reviewers express mixed opinions on pricing. Some find the prices reasonable or affordable, while others feel the value is not commensurate with the portion size.
Parking: The reviews do not provide information about the restaurant's parking situation.
10
Naturally Desi Cafe 'n' Catering
Modern Indian restaurant, Bar, Biryani restaurant, Halal restaurant, Indian restaurant, North Indian restaurant, Wine bar
Price Range: $$
Address: 16769 Bernardo Center Dr Suite K 10, San Diego, CA 92128
Naturally Desi Cafe 'n' Catering in San Diego, California, offers an authentic Indian dining experience with a diverse menu featuring both traditional favorites and street food specialties. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff who take pride in explaining their dishes and ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience. Their generous portions come at reasonable prices, with standout dishes including their biryani, curry selections, and innovative fusion appetizers that showcase the rich flavors of Indian cuisine.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Reviewers frequently comment on the generous portion sizes, describing them as large, good, and sufficient for one person.
Prices: Many reviewers considered the prices reasonable and affordable, especially in comparison to other Indian restaurants.
Parking: The reviews do not provide information about parking at this restaurant.
Mirch Masala Indian Restaurant
Indian restaurant, Halal restaurant, Indian takeaway, Modern Indian restaurant, North Eastern Indian restaurant, South Indian restaurant, Vegan restaurant
Price Range: $$
Address: 9254 Scranton Rd #102, San Diego, CA 92121
Mirch Masala Indian Restaurant in San Diego, California, serves up authentic North Indian cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and various curry specialties. The restaurant offers both dine-in service and a lunch buffet, with generous portions that provide good value for customers seeking flavorful Indian fare. While the atmosphere is casual and no-frills, the establishment has earned a reputation for its masala chai, fresh naan bread, and customizable spice levels to suit different palates.
Known For
Not Noted
Portion Sizes: Reviews regarding portion sizes are mixed. Some reviewers mention generous portions, while others describe portion sizes as extremely small for the price.
Prices: Reviews regarding prices are mixed. Some mention good value or affordable prices while others complain about high prices for small portions or the overall value.
Parking: The reviews do not provide information about parking availability or customer experiences with parking.