Hajiyaar Biryani at Pallavaram offers an interesting alternative for those looking to switch things up from the famous Ya Mohideen Biryani. While Ya Mohideen has garnered a massive fanbase over the years for its consistency and signature taste, Hajiyaar brings a slightly different experience to the table—whether for better or worse may depend on your preferences.

The biryani here carries a distinct flavor, with the spices and rice cooked to perfection, but there's an undeniable shortfall when it comes to the quantity and quality of meat. I paid ₹180 for a chicken biryani, which, by local standards, felt a bit on the higher side. The issue I noticed was that the portion of chicken was rather small, and it didn’t quite live up to the price tag. Most of the meal felt like eating flavored rice with just a hint of chicken. This is a stark contrast to what one would expect from places like Ya Mohideen, where the meat-to-rice ratio is more generous and fulfilling.

That said, the rice at Hajiyaar is aromatic and well-spiced, which makes it enjoyable if you’re someone who appreciates the art of cooking flavorful rice. However, biryani, as most enthusiasts would agree, is more than just the rice—it’s the combination of tender, juicy meat, and the overall balance of flavors that elevates the dish. In this department, Hajiyaar Biryani falls a bit short.

If you're someone who’s keen on exploring different tastes, and you want to step away from Ya Mohideen Biryani’s version once in a while, Hajiyaar Biryani could be worth a try. However, the steep pricing for what is mostly rice may leave you wanting more, especially when you consider the competition.

In summary, Hajiyaar Biryani at Pallavaram is good, but it does have its shortcomings. The flavor is there, but the value for money might not meet everyone's expectations, especially for those accustomed to the more generous servings at nearby establishments like Ya Mohideen. If you're in the mood for something a little different and don't mind paying a bit extra for a more rice-heavy biryani, it might just be worth a visit.