Hungry in Hyderabad: Hotel Sitara Grand

Unfocused on Paaya and Haleem

Its a common dilemna when it comes to entertaining new comers to your city. You would like to take them out to lunch or dinner to a reputed place representative of what the local unique and delicious.

My gracious host, Deviprasad took me to the classically renowned Hotel Sitara Grand lunch. The offering here encompasses much of what Hyderabad is famous for. I especially was looking out for the Paaya and Haleem.

Straight of the bat, the first thing we saw when we entered the dining room were the superstars Haleen, Paaya and Biryani. The Haleem is an interesting super tenderised lamb cooked with lentils and wheat. I was surprised by its unique taste and texture. I liked it quite a bit, but Devi told me its not upto the mark as compared to what is during Ramazan. The Paaya is a spicy lamb soup which is had for breakfast. Again a new experience, it was really hearty and meaty. Since I go easy on the meat, I had a bowl but Devi was tucking into it full on. Paaya & Haleem, check. The Biryani is authentic Hyderabadi, it comes mildly spiced. I realized a bit late I have to go heavy on the Mirchi Ka Salaan to spice it up. Though the cynosure were the Paaya and Haleem.

The rest of the fare was usual Mughalai and Indo Western, tasty though. The Chinese dishes were boring. Deserts were great and several. I was delighted with the Double ka Meetha, another local specialty.

So next time, I have to entertain someone who comes to this city, I know where to take them.