In Goa, here's where every bite of biryani tells a story

Did you know that biryani is one of the most-ordered dishes in India? A recent study by food delivery app Swiggy indicates most people in the country order biryani. There is no doubt that every spoonful of biryani rice along with a bite of well-marinated meat can make your day. The burst of spicy flavours and aromas lingers on long after it has been eaten.

But what if you have to choose from a list of different biryanis? Well, that decision might be tough, especially at Bhaijaan's Gulistaan in Margao.

For Zain and his younger brother Zahid Raza, also co-owner, this love for biryani was like sowing the seed of a dream. That seed has now germinated into Bhaijaan's Gulistaan.

“As a professional chef working with Taj, I always dreamed of opening my own restaurant and had decided long ago to name it Bhaijaan’s. That dream became a reality when I started Bhaijaan’s Ghar Ki Rasoi during Covid in Vasco,” said Zain, co-owner of Bhaijaan's Gulistaan.

Bhaijaan’s Ghar Ki Rasoi was a home establishment, where his mother would help in preparing biryanis. Over a few months, through word of mouth, the orders started doubling and that's when they realised their food was a favourite with customers.

“At the same time we started posting on social media platforms, which also gave us many customers,” says Zain, who started the first restaurant in Vasco, moved to Margao and now plans to open a third one in Panjim.

Their secret ingredients worked, said Zain. “When we prepare our dishes, we maintain consistency by making all masalas in our secret masala room and distribute them to our chefs, ensuring that the standard, taste and quality remains the same across locations.”

Just like every restaurant has its own recipes, the Raza family has their own and also techniques. Being a chef, Zain ensures that high standards of cooking methods are employed.

Bhaijaan's Gulistaan offers more than just biryani. It also serves a variety of kebabs, live Momo counters, and a unique charcoal shawarma that has been conceptualised by Zain.

“I recommend trying our mutton keema kulchas, mutton chaaps and schezwan tandoori. These dishes reflect my creativity and are loved by customers,” says Zain, adding that his personal favourites are the Bhaijaan’s Mastani and chicken/mutton kabsa. In Vasco, Bhaijaan is also known for flavourful paans, golas and tandoor items.

Finding the best ingredients is important for any restaurateur. “We source our mutton from Belgaum keeping in mind quality. The spices and other ingredients are sourced locally by ensuring freshness and authenticity. The most important is that we serve food from the heart, focusing on quality and quantity. Our commitment to excellence makes us stand out,” says Zain.