The word ‘biryani’ comes from the Persian word “birian” which means fried before cooking. One could conclude that the biryani originated in Iran. Our tour guide Salma says you can trace it back to Mumtaz Maham. Shah Jahan’s queen who inspired the Taj Mahal.

Well whoever created it, definitely created a union of ingredients. In Singapore, it is a common sight. Briyani can be found at almost every hawker centre.

 

Mr Arif Salahuddin, who moved to Singapore from Pakistan a few decades ago was not able to find the food he used to enjoy. Everything he tried couldn’t match the best food back home. A recipe lost somewhere through generations.

And just like that, he felt like he needed to bring back biryani. There and then, Bismillah Biryani brand was founded. It came from very humble beginnings. A tiny outlet in Dover. Soon after, he moved to 42 Dunlop Street in Little India. This is three shophouses away from the flagship restaurant’s current location.

And just like that, Singapore’s best Dum Biryani brand was created. A bold statement you may say. Mr Salahuddin is listed in the Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore. It is said to likely be the only biryani restaurant in the world to be given the Michelin status. Yup, THE WORLD.

What makes his briyani the best, ask our tour guests?

Well, the biryani prepared by Mr Salahuddin is cooked together so the rice and meat soak up all the spices and flavours. He served a gravy-less plate of biryani that is not oily. Along with basmati rice heaped over a bed of meat and side serve of a boiled egg and yoghurt-based raita.

Biryani & Biryani Dum
Many tour guests ask what’s the difference and which should we eat.
‘Dum’ means sealing after all ingredients are placed in a cooker, then cooked on a low flame. The process is supposed to intensify the flavour. A normal biryani would be cooked separately.

Mr Salahuddin cares about the health of diners and strives to cook the healthiest meals possible. Thus, Bismillah Biryani has its twist than the normal biryani.

Mr Salahuddin’s biryani starts from $8.50/plate. While it is slightly expensive, it is different from a different version. Like the bold signboards, “Probably the best biryani anywhere.”

You can find Mr Salahuddin’s restaurant (Bismillah Biryani) at:
50 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209379
Tel: 9382 7937

#01-03 Nexus@one-north, 1 Fusionopolis Link, Singapore 138542
Tel: 9270 7649

Don’t forget to book on our Little India and Kampong Glam food tour and find out more about Biryani and other Singapore best food stops.
www.singabites.com/tours