AMBUR STAR BRIYANI® SINCE 1890 (South India’s Legendary Briyani) — Restaurant in Tamil Nadu

During all my years of travel, I’ve often passed by Ambur Star Biryani in Ambur, but for some reason, I always had the impression that it might be a bit shabby or not very tidy inside. However, on a recent visit, I was pleasantly surprised to find it completely the opposite! Inside, the restaurant boasts a red-themed, well-maintained, and incredibly clean environment. It's definitely a family-friendly place with plenty of seating, making it a comfortable spot to stop by with your loved ones, especially if you're on a long journey.

Of course, the highlight here is the food, specifically the biryani, which is what Ambur is famous for. Ambur Star Biryani stays true to its roots by offering a unique flavor that sets it apart from other biryanis. The taste is distinct, with a subtle yet flavorful blend of spices. While some might expect a heavier portion, the biryani comes in what I would call a standard plate size – not too much but just enough to leave you satisfied without feeling overly full.

Another thing that adds to the overall appeal of this restaurant is its convenient location right on the highway. It’s the perfect spot to take a break during your drive, and there’s plenty of parking available, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot. This is especially great for those traveling in larger vehicles or with family, as it makes stopping by hassle-free.

One feature that really impressed me was the lift they have for seniors. This is something you don’t see often, even in larger highway-side restaurants like A2B. It’s clear that the management has put thought into making the restaurant accessible for everyone, and that extra attention to detail really stood out for me. It’s these little things that can make a big difference, especially when traveling with elderly family members.

Overall, Ambur Star Biryani exceeded my expectations with its neat, family-friendly ambience, unique biryani, and thoughtful amenities like the lift. Whether you’re a fan of biryani or just looking for a convenient stop during your travels, this place is worth...

Ambur Star Biryani – A Mixed Bag of Legacy & Service

For those traveling along the Chennai–Bangalore National Highway, Ambur Star Biryani is often considered a must-visit spot for its legendary Ambur-style biryani. However, experiences here seem to vary, from exceptional flavors to serious service and quality issues.

Food & Taste – Traditional Biryani, But Not Perfect ✅ Hits:

Chicken Biryani – Well-cooked and flavorful, with just the right portion size to avoid wastage.

Chicken 65 – Crispy and well-seasoned, arguably the best dish on the menu.

Ambience & Atmosphere – Classy setting with a welcoming vibe.

Quick service during lunch hours – Food arrives fast if you visit early.

🚫 Misses:

Mutton Biryani – Disappointing quality, with only bone and fat, lacking the true Ambur-style richness.

Chicken Sukka – Not fresh, chewy texture, and weak flavor.

Portion sizes – Small servings for both rice and meat.

Inconsistency in service – Orders arrive at different times, making dining frustrating.

Customer Service – Needs Serious Improvement ⚠ Unprofessional staff behavior – Loud arguments between captains and servers during service. ⚠ Poor responsiveness – Some staff members show indifference rather than hospitality. ⚠ Peak-hour shortage – Biryani running out by 8 PM is unexpected at such a famous place.

Safety & Convenience ✅ Good highway stop – Convenient for travelers. ✅ Nearby leather outlets – A bonus for shoppers.

Final Verdict – Worth It or Not? Ambur Star Biryani holds a legacy since 1890, but inconsistent food quality and poor service hurt its reputation. If you're stopping by, chicken biryani and chicken 65 are good choices, but don't expect world-class service or generous portions.

💡 Recommended for: Travelers wanting to experience Ambur-style biryani. 💰 Worth it? Only if you visit during off-peak hours to avoid service issues. 🏆 Star dish: Chicken 65. ⚠ Needs improvement: Service professionalism, portion size, and food...

Ambur Star Biryani has firmly secured its place as one of my absolute favorite biryani spots in Tamil Nadu—second only to the iconic Pista House biryani from Hyderabad. Every time I cross through Ambur, it’s almost a ritual for me to stop by this place and treat myself. Honestly, I’ve never once regretted it.

There’s something special about the flavor here. While I’ve heard some people say that the “authentic” taste has faded over the years, I can’t really speak to that since I’ve only been eating here for the past three years. But what I can say with certainty is that the taste has remained consistently good throughout my visits. It’s always satisfying and comforting, just the way a great biryani should be.

I usually go for either the chicken or mutton biryani, both of which are rich, aromatic, and perfectly cooked. The meat is tender, and the spices are well balanced—not too overpowering, just enough to make every bite memorable. I often pair it with their vanjaram tawa fry, which is another must-try dish. The fish is fresh, well-marinated, and seared to perfection—an ultimate combo with the biryani.

One quirky favorite of mine is the mouth freshener they give after the meal. It’s so flavorful and refreshing that I actually take some with me in my pocket to enjoy later. It’s a small touch, but it adds to the charm of the overall experience.

The service here is always prompt and courteous. I also noticed that they recently updated the interior, and the new look definitely adds to the dining experience. It feels more modern and welcoming now—definitely a good move.

Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in or around Ambur. This place never...