Sankranti Feasts in Hyderabad: Aidu, Ishtaa, Vivaha Bhojanambu serve traditional flavours

Hyderabad: The harvest season is a time for joy, gratitude and culinary indulgence.

As the festivals of Sankranti, Pongal and Lohri approach, restaurants in Hyderabad are stepping up with exclusive menus that highlight the rich traditions of South Indian and other regional cuisines. These dining experiences offer an opportunity to savour authentic flavours while celebrating the season’s cultural heritage.

Ouvra Telugu Kitchen: A festive feast

Ouvra Telugu Kitchen in Madhapur presents a special festive menu from January 13 to 15. The spread includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes crafted to reflect Sankranti’s traditions.

Vegetarian options such as minapa gaarelu with allam chutney, kobbari annam with aloo dum fry, and the Sankranti veg thali cater to those seeking classic festive tastes. Meat lovers can indulge in naatukodi vepudu, patnam kodi, and the restaurant’s special biryani. Traditional desserts like poornam boorelu, bobbatlu, and Sankranti payasam complete the meal.

Details: Rs 1,000 per person; lunch service begins at 12 pm.

Aidu: A progressive take on South Indian cuisine

Located in Jubilee Hills, Aidu offers a curated Sankranti menu featuring dishes such as pulihora rice, rasam, and chicken fry. These selections emphasise balance and variety, celebrating the vibrant essence of South Indian flavours.

With prices set at Rs 749 for vegetarians and Rs 849 for non-vegetarians, the menu is an excellent choice for those who enjoy festive outings.

Sheraton’s Feast: A harvest lunch

Sheraton, Financial District, presents a festive lunch on January 14, offering Sankranti staples like chakkera pongali, bellam pongali, garelu and nuvvula appalu. Desserts such as sunnundalu are also part of this celebration. The event invites guests to unwind and enjoy a meal that honours the harvest season’s spirit.

Details: Rs 2,500 per person; lunch hours from 12 pm to 3 pm.

Park Hyatt: A blend of tradition and refinement

The Dining Room at Park Hyatt, Banjara Hills, combines traditional South Indian flavours with a refined dining experience. Their Pongal lunch includes classics like sabudana tikki, bajra khichdi and desserts such as gajar ka halwa and til ke laddoo. The special dinner menu is available on January 14 from 7 pm to 11 pm.

Details: Rs 2,350 per person.

Traditional South Indian dining options in Hyderabad

If you prefer dining at establishments dedicated to South Indian cuisine, several restaurants in Hyderabad offer authentic options year-round.

Ishtaa Pure Vegetarian

Known for its vegetarian thali served on a banana leaf, Ishtaa is a popular choice. With multiple branches across Hyderabad, including Kokapet and Basheerbagh, the restaurant also serves breakfast dishes like masala dosa and uggani bajji.

Vivaha Bhojanambu

Located in Jubilee Hills, Vivaha Bhojanambu specialises in regional Andhra cuisine. The menu features dishes like Konaseema paneer vepudu and pappucharu, accompanied by local drinks such as goli soda.

Anna Native

Situated in Sainikpuri, Anna Native focuses on traditional flavours with unique offerings like aratikaya vepudu (raw banana fritters) and soyabean and batani pulao.

Telugu Medium

This Jubilee Hills restaurant offers classics such as gutthi vankaya and gongura pulao. While the menu leans towards traditional fare, its extensive offerings ensure a fulfilling dining experience.

Telangana Spice Kitchen

A Jubilee Hills establishment that highlights Telangana’s regional flavours. Dishes like golichinna mushroom and guthi vankaya pulao stand out for their authentic preparation.

A season to indulge

This Sankranti, Pongal and Lohri season, immerse yourself in the culinary richness of the harvest festivals. Whether it’s a curated menu at a fine-dining restaurant or a traditional thali at a local eatery, these offerings capture the spirit of celebration and tradition, making them an essential part of the festive experience.