The rich and flavourful dish known as Hyderabadi haleem has been a staple of Indian cuisine for centuries. In the traditional haleem recipe, wheat, barley, lentils, and meat (often beef or mutton) are slow-cooked to create a thick, silky paste. Next, a mixture of spices is used to season the paste. Fried onions, coriander leaves, and lime juice are then added as a garnish. Fitness enthusiasts love Hyderabadi haleem because it is a hearty, nourishing dish that is packed with protein and fibre.
Haleem in Hyderabad is significant historically and culturally. It is thought to have arrived in Hyderabad somewhere in the 16th century, during the Mughal dynasty. The meal was initially offered to the nobility and monarchy before becoming well-liked by the general populace. In many regions of India today, Hyderabadi haleem is served throughout the month of Ramzan and is regarded as a staple meal.
Haleem in Mumbai is proof of the city's varied culinary scene. Mumbai has seen the emergence of numerous restaurants and cafes providing genuine Hyderabadi haleem throughout the years. These restaurants provide a variety of choices, from low-key restaurants to stalls on the sidewalk. When it is offered as a component of Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the daylong fast, the dish is most frequently found during the month of Ramzan.
However, because of its ubiquity, a lot of eateries in Mumbai serve Hyderabadi haleem all year round. Needless to say, it has been modified (while keeping its original flavour) to suit the regional palate. Hyderabadi haleem has become popular among cuisine enthusiasts in Mumbai, and various restaurants have developed a reputation for serving the best in town.
Let's explore the four places in Mumbai where you may get the best Hyderabadi haleem. For everyone who enjoys this rich and delectable dish, these restaurants are a must-visit because of their reputation for delivering authentic and flavourful Hyderabadi haleem.
1. Café Noorani, Mohammed Ali Road
The best Hyderabadi haleem in Mumbai can be found at Cafe Noorani, a popular restaurant situated in the busy district of Mohammed Ali Road. The cafe is well-known for its haleem, which is slow-cooked to perfection and is rich and flavorful. Be prepared to deal with the mad rush that this restaurant receives on a daily basis and do not expect any fancy cutlery! Café Noorani has been serving up haleem in Mumbai for decades, and locals will confirm that this is one of the best in Mumbai.
Location: Mohammed Ali Road, Crawford Market, Mumbai.
Cost: About Rs 220 for per serving.
2. Kakori House, Multiple Locations
The well-known eatery Kakori House has branches in multiple locations in Mumbai including Mahim, Bandra, and Andheri and offers a variety of Indian specialities. The eatery is well-known for its rich Hyderabadi haleem, which is slow-cooked for hours and is packed with flavours. If you’re looking for some haleem that you can just order in, Kakori House may just be the most accessible option.
Location: Situated in multiple locations in Mumbai
Price: About Rs 650 per serving.
3. Café Irani Chaii, Mahim
Café Irani Chaii in Mahim is a quaint little café hidden in one of the by-lanes in Mahim. It is walkable from Mahim railway station. Though the café typically serves Iranian food like bun maska, and eggs akuri, those who have been frequenting the place for generations will tell you that their secret dish is actually the haleem. For those who live around Mahim and Matunga Road, this is perhaps one of the best haleem options in the city. The only catch is, they make haleem only once a week on Friday and it sells out in a few hours!
Location: Rosary Building, Mia Mohd Chhotani Rd, Geeta Nagar, Mahim West, Mahim, Mumbai
Price: About Rs 450 per bowl (usually one portion is enough to serve two)
4. The Bombay Canteen, Lower Parel
The upscale eatery, The Bombay Canteen, is situated in the hip suburb of Lower Parel and offers a variety of Indian dishes. The eatery is renowned for giving traditional Indian dishes a contemporary spin, and its Hyderabadi haleem is no different. If you’re looking for a gourmet take on the Hyderabadi haleem, this is THE place for the best haleem in Mumbai! The one served at The Bombay Canteen is a mix of traditional mixed with their own interpretation of the Hyderabadi Haleem, and we personally guarantee that it is to die for!
Location: Unit-1, Process House, S.B. Road, Kamala Mills, Near Radio Mirchi Office, Lower Parel
Cost: Rs 850 for each serving.
Hyderabadi haleem in Mumbai is the best and most authentically served at these four locations. There is something for everyone, whether you want upscale dining or cosy cafes, or the true authentic roadside feel. Consider visiting one of these restaurants the next time you're in the mood for a bowl of comfort for a culinary experience you will remember for days to come!
Disclaimer: The details mentioned throughout this blog are sourced from publicly accessible platforms. At Zeezest, we intend to share factual and verified information. Should there be any inconsistencies or variances in the information provided, please understand that these are entirely unintentional and not meant to mislead.