In short: at Copperleaf, Rue du Docteur-Alfred-Vincent 13 (Pâquis, Geneva), you can try five different biryanis, all halal: Hyderabadi chicken (CHF 34), Bombay lamb (CHF 37), Kerala beef (CHF 36), Goan prawn (CHF 35) and Rajasthani vegetable (CHF 32, vegetarian).
Biryani is probably the most famous rice dish of the Indian subcontinent. But behind the name sit dozens of regional recipes, each with its own rice, spices and cooking method. Here is a short guide to what you are ordering — and how to pick the biryani that suits you.
What is biryani?
Biryani is fragrant basmati rice cooked with meat, seafood or vegetables that have been marinated in spices. Unlike a curry served next to rice, the meat and rice are cooked together or layered, so every grain soaks up the aromas: saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, fried onions and fresh herbs.
The dish arrived in India with the Mughal court kitchens, and each region then adapted it to its own produce. That is why a Hyderabadi biryani tastes nothing like one from Kerala.
Our 5 biryanis, region by region
Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani (CHF 34)
Hyderabad, in southern India, is the undisputed capital of biryani. The Hyderabadi style is traditionally cooked “dum”: the pot is sealed and the dish steams slowly, keeping the meat tender and the rice fragrant. Expect saffron, mint and fried onion. The ideal choice for a first biryani.
Bombay Lamb Biryani (CHF 37)
Bombay (Mumbai), the great cosmopolitan city of the west coast, is known for generous biryanis. Our lamb version brings a depth that chicken can’t match. It is our richest biryani — perfect if you like bold flavours.
Kerala Beef Biryani (CHF 36)
In Kerala, on the Malabar coast, biryani is often milder and very aromatic, with whole spices and sometimes cashews and raisins. Beef, common in Kerala cooking, gives it a character of its own. A biryani you rarely find in Geneva.
Goan Prawn Biryani (CHF 35)
Goa means the sea, and our prawn biryani carries those coastal flavours. If you love seafood, this is the one. To explore the rest of the cuisine, see our page on Goan food in Geneva.
Rajasthani Vegetable Biryani (CHF 32, vegetarian)
Rajasthan, the desert state in north-west India, has a long tradition of vegetarian cooking. Our vegetable biryani follows it: colourful, fragrant and filling. It is one of our 15+ vegetarian dishes.
Which biryani should you choose?
| If you like… | Choose | Price |
|---|---|---|
| A balanced classic | Hyderabadi chicken | CHF 34 |
| Rich, bold flavours | Bombay lamb | CHF 37 |
| Trying something rare | Kerala beef | CHF 36 |
| Seafood | Goan prawn | CHF 35 |
| No meat | Rajasthani vegetable | CHF 32 |
All our biryanis carry one chilli on the menu: spiced, but not fiery. If you are wary of heat, tell our team when you order.
What to eat with biryani
Biryani is a complete meal, but it is even better with raita (cucumber yoghurt, CHF 7), which cools the palate between bites. For a group, order a biryani and a curry to share — for example a butter chicken or a korma — with a garlic naan.
Is the biryani halal at Copperleaf?
Yes. Our whole menu is halal-certified, including the chicken, lamb and beef in our biryanis. Read more about what 100% halal means at Copperleaf.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I eat biryani in Geneva?
At Copperleaf, Rue du Docteur-Alfred-Vincent 13, in the Pâquis district, about a 7-minute walk from Cornavin station. We serve five different biryanis, Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 and on Monday evenings from 17:00.
How much is a biryani at Copperleaf?
Between CHF 32 (vegetable biryani) and CHF 37 (Bombay lamb biryani). Prices are in Swiss francs, VAT included.
Is biryani very spicy?
It is spiced but rarely hot: the spices are there mainly to perfume the rice. If you prefer something very mild, ask our team for advice.
Can I book for a group?
Yes — biryani is made for sharing. Book online or call 022 335 08 93.
Hungry? See the full menu or book your table.