About the Owner and Chef

Roots and Inspiration

Born and raised in a household rich in Hyderabad's culinary heritage, Niven’s first exposure to the art of cooking came from his mother. Watching her effortlessly craft the intricate flavors of Hyderabad's cuisine planted the seeds of his culinary passion. Her hands-on guidance and the family’s treasured recipes became the foundation of his expertise.

Real-World Culinary Learning

Although Niven never formally studied cooking at a culinary school, his journey was shaped by extensive practical experience. He worked alongside seasoned caterers in Hyderabad, India, learning the nuances of traditional cooking. This hands-on exposure allowed him to master the intricate techniques and deep flavors synonymous with Hyderabad cuisine, such as the layered Biryani, rich curries, and perfectly spiced Tandoori dishes.

Academic and Professional Excellence

In addition to his culinary talent, Niven holds an MBA from the UK and a PhD, which highlights his dedication to excellence in every aspect of his career. His academic achievements have enabled him to combine the discipline of business management with the creative world of cooking, leading to the successful establishment and growth of Hyderabad Tandoori Indian Kitchen.

Culinary Visionary

Niven's ambition goes beyond being just a chef; he is a true ambassador of Hyderabad cuisine. Recognized as one of the best in this unique culinary style in New York, he has set his sights on introducing Hyderabad’s rich flavors to the global stage. Starting with his restaurant in New York, Niven aims to create a culinary journey that transcends borders, delighting food lovers around the world.

Legacy of Flavor and Innovation

Niven Harry Isaac’s story is not just about cooking; it’s about celebrating heritage, embracing passion, and sharing the authentic flavors of Hyderabad with the world. Every dish at Hyderabad Tandoori Indian Kitchen tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a deep love for food, making it an unforgettable experience for diners.

When you think of authentic Hyderabad cuisine, biryani immediately comes to mind—a dish that is as iconic as it is beloved around the world. For Chef Niven Harry Isaac, biryani is more than just a dish; it’s a legacy, an emotion, and the soul of his culinary passion.

The Heritage of Biryani

The Hyderabad biryani is famed for its layers of tender marinated meat, fragrant basmati rice, aromatic spices, and slow-cooked perfection. This culinary masterpiece represents a harmony of Mughlai and regional South Indian flavors, and for Niven, it’s the ultimate representation of his Hyderabad roots.

A Signature Creation

Today, Niven’s biryani stands as a flagship dish at Hyderabad Tandoori Indian Kitchen. His take on this dish is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation:

• Authentic Flavors: Niven preserves the traditional flavors of Hyderabad by using only high-quality spices and ingredients, sourced with care.

• Custom Touch: Whether it's the classic chicken and mutton biryanis or a vegetarian adaptation, his dishes are carefully curated to cater to modern palates while maintaining authenticity.

• Precision Cooking: Each biryani is cooked with the traditional "DUM" technique, ensuring layers of flavor and perfectly tender meat.