Rediscovering Tamil Nadu-Style Biriyani at Ponram, Bangalore

Growing up in a Malayali Muslim household with Tamil influences, choosing a favorite biriyani was always challenging. From the home-style biriyani made by mothers to the renowned Manjaly and Calicut’s Paragon, the options were diverse. However, the Tamil Nadu-style mutton biriyani enjoyed during visits to relatives in Coimbatore and Mettupalayam remains a standout memory. It was a highlight of family weddings and the flavor of this biriyani has become a cherished ideal.

This is the experience of one such biryani lover..

When he visited Ponram in Bangalore, he was delighted to discover that their Tamil Nadu-style mutton biriyani closely matched his memories. Established in Dindigul in 1973, Ponram is renowned for maintaining high standards and consistency in its biriyani. The restaurant’s signature dish, prepared with tender mutton and a balanced fat-to-meat ratio, avoids the heaviness often associated with some biriyanis.

Ponram’s attention to ingredient sourcing is noteworthy. From Kottapatti brinjals to Thandikudi pepper, each component is carefully selected to ensure authenticity. The restaurant also offers unique starters such as Ilaneer Kozhi Rasam and Chicken Wing Nei Chukka, made with free-range chicken and ghee from their own dairy farms.

Mani Ram, the fourth-generation custodian of the Ponram legacy, shared insights into their meticulous preparation process. Each batch of biriyani is made fresh, and the use of offals in dishes like Mutton Egg Varuval and Mutton Chukka adds to their culinary repertoire. The meal is traditionally accompanied by Dalcha, a curry with mutton bones, dal, and eggplant.

The experience concluded with Khasi Halwa, a sweet treat made from Ash Gourd, reminiscent of childhood weddings and Tamil Nadu visits. Ponram’s house-made ice creams, such as jackfruit and banana, are also noteworthy.

Though Ponram’s Bangalore location is relatively new, it has quickly become a popular spot. He eagerly anticipates returning to savor more of this biriyani and possibly visiting their original Dindigul restaurant to relive the experience.

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