Hyderabad has given me a lot of things, from my first job to a platform for Atulmaharaj the Food and Travel blogger to flourish. Over the years, I’ve explored Hyderabad like a local and I’m often a go-to person for food and travel recommendations for many when they are first time visiting Hyderabad.

With my Vegetarian’s Guide To Hyderabad already very popular, I decided to write my recommendations for everyone visiting Hyderabad for the first time in this post. The blog post will have three sections – places to eat, explore and shop – and most of these places are vetted by me.

Let’s dive into the best places for first-time visitors to indulge, discover, and shop!

What to Eat, Explore, and Shop on Your First Time Visiting Hyderabad

I’ve always said that Hyderabad has something for everyone – from world-famous cuisine to rich cultural experiences and bustling markets. This ultimate travel guide will walk you through the must-visit spots to eat, explore, and shop, ensuring you get the best out of your first trip to Hyderabad. Whether you’re craving authentic biryani, eager to explore centuries-old architecture, or looking for unique souvenirs, Hyderabad will leave you enchanted.

One thing though, I’m a vegetarian and a teetotaler. Having said that, I’ll mention places that serve good Hyderabad Biryani and booze, though I have not tasted it ever. So with that word of caution, let’s make your first visit to Hyderabad memorable.

Places To Eat In Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a culinary haven. On your first visit, be prepared to indulge in dishes that have won hearts globally, from the world-famous Hyderabadi biryani to local Andhra and Telangana food bursting with spices and aromas. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a quick snack from a street vendor, Hyderabad’s diverse food scene is sure to leave you craving more. Let’s explore some of the top places where you can enjoy the best of Hyderabad’s iconic cuisine!

Breakfast

Panchakattu Dosa: My absolute favourite for Rayalaseema style dosa and Nannari. Read my detailed Panchakattu Dosa review. Taaza Kitchen: Bengaluru-style Dose and filter kaapi, usually crowded during morning hours and parking can be an issue.

Swach: Similar to Taaza Kitchen, another place that’s quite popular for Dosa, Vada and coffee.

Pragathi Tiffins: One of the iconic places in Abids known for its chutney. Try their Masala Dosa and Ganga Jamuna, I’m sure you’ll love it.

Ram ki Bandi: Once iconic Ram ki Bandi (bandi = food cart in Telugu) is still a place to visit and try some street-style dosa. PS: I’ve been here only once since I moved to Hyderabad.

Govind Ki Bandi: Hyderabad’s very own street-style dosa with a spoon of Upma. Try Govind’s Tawa Idli and you’ll love it!

Rambharose Bhattad Idli: If you’re an Idli fan, you must try the Idli at Rambharose, the melt-in-mouth Idli and Ghee Podi Idli are super delicious.

Royal Tiffin Center: Another place where you must try Idli, soft and fluffy. Also, their Ghee Podi Idli is nice too.

Iyer Tiffin Center: I’ll call this a hidden gem that you must visit for their Idli and Vada breakfast. It’s a very small place, but the queues might tell you why they are famous!

Nimrah Cafe: Seen those photos of people drinking chai in front of Charminar? Well, it’s here at Nimrah Cafe. Opens at 4 in the morning, one of the best Irani Chai in Hyderabad.

Nayab: Want to start your with a meaty affair? Eat like a pakka Hyderabad at Nayab with some Nalli Nihari, Kheem Pav and a lot of exquisite dishes.

Ishtaa: The new favourite in town, a proper sit-down restaurant that serves pure vegetarian food. Try their Ghee Masala Dosa with a variety of chutneys. Read my complete Ishtaa review.

Chutneys: The OG eatery of Hyderabad known for the variety of Chutneys they serve, has a loyal fanbase and it might be difficult to secure a seat, with multiple outlets in the city.

Simply South: Another OG restaurant by celebrity Chef Chalapathi Rao, brings cuisines from across the southern states.

These were some of the must-try breakfast places in Hyderabad. Most of these places open quite early in the day, so if you’re coming early, you’ll get some food for sure. Further, these are like local favourites and mostly south Indian, I’ll have a list of cafes too in this post, where you can get continental and English breakfast if you prefer that.