Nizam club, situated at Saifabaad at the heart of the city was established in 1884. by Nawab Mahbub Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VI. During those days, there was only one major club in the Hyderabad State, the Secunderabad Club and it was exclusive and almost confined to the British Resident of Hyderabad State. Therefore, The then Prime Minister Mir Laiq Ali Khan Salar Jung II, suggested a club for gentlemen of status and culture, irrespective of race, religion or creed, be established. And the Nizam Club came into existence.

On seeing my disappointed state at not being able to find good, authentic Hyderabadi food, let alone offal in Hyderabad, decided to treat me to lunch at this prestigious club. The club is 129 years old, and looks it. Though frayed at the edges and having a run-down look, it still has its refined, regal air about it.

We settle down in the dining hall and soon the server joins in with a print-out menu giving the day’s menu. The prices are amazingly low and the service amazingly quick.

We start with a delicious murrel Fish Lalmirchi (Rs 85). Soon thereafter Seena Dalcha (Rs 80) which is essentially thin dal with pieces from the goat’s ribs and frontage is served. It is a mesmerizing dish, much tastier than the club’s speciality, Achaar Gosht (Rs 100).

                      Fish Lalmirchi                                  Seena Dalcha

Kheema Tomato Methi (Rs 100) has an amazing texture – not too fine and not too coarse and a complex flavour. All this is mopped with fresh Phulka (Rs 7).

                  Achari Ghosht                                  Kheema Tomato Methi

The vegetarian dishes are no less. Turai Chutney (Rs 33) is unlike any Turai dish I have had in the past, and Mirchi ka Salan (Rs 35) piquant.

                  Turai Chutney                                        Mirchi ka Salan

Khichdi Katta (Rs 40) is totally unlike our convalescent diet version. This is more like a dal biryani rather than a khichdi, and rather delicious.

                                       Khichdi Katta

For dessert there is the old Raj favourite Triffle Pudding (Rs 40) made with tinned fruit, with its nostalgic taste, and a very capable and comforting Kulfi Slice (Rs 28).

                  Triffle Pudding                                                Kulfi

Food here is delicious, without making an effort to be. There is something to be said about food cooked by experienced khansamas (chefs).

The review was anonymously done after paying for the meal.

Ratings (Out of 5)                                         

Food: 4.0 | Ambience: 3.5 | Service: 3.5 | Value: 4.5 | Overall: 4.0

Entry for members and their guests only

Meal for two: Rs.200 | Alcohol: Yes | Credit Card: No | Wheel chair friendly: Yes

Address: Opp. Telangana State Assembly, Saifabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004. Tel: 040 2323 7097