Gundappa Donne Biryani

If you have been to Bangalore, you have probably heard of something called Donne Biryani. For those who are wondering what Donne is, it’s a large eco-friendly cup made of Palm or Papaya leaves. So Donne biryani in translation is biryani traditionally prepared, these days served in Donne. Unlike other popular biryanis, Donne biryani is not prepared by giving Dum or in layers. It is prepared in the chicken/mutton stock and served with various curries. Also unlike the other cool kids, this biryani doesn’t use the whole Basmati rice, which provides the appropriate simplicity to it. This one, however, has the intoxicating blend of spices which makes it so unique.

I had the pleasure to visit Gundappa Donne biryani as a part of an FBAB meetup, and oh I loved my first Donne biryani experience. As a restaurant, Gundappa Donne Biryani, in Koramangala is a bright little place which speaks out of Biryani all over.

I savoured the chicken biryani thali, which has Donne biryani, chicken kebab, keema masala vada, Guntur chicken, chilli chicken, pepper chicken and raita. The curries have rich mouth watering spices. The hotness quotient was on the high side for me (DISCLAIMER: I’m too sensitive to it). But, if you are from Andhra, you are going to love it.

Keema masala vada was quite delicious. I particularly liked Guntur chicken a lot. The overall biryani experience was very enriching. I did miss desserts on the menu, of course, because there is that “sweet tooth” of mine… yeah that one! I wish some Karnataka special dessert is added to the menu soon.

If you are staying in Bangalore, be sure to taste Donne biryani. However do not compare it with Hyderabadi or any other Biryani. Donne biryani is a very homely experience and enjoyed more that way. Let the spices take over the tongue and do their job, which you enjoy with your mouth full.