Biryani tops menu of night food court

The night food court set up at Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium as part of the people’s-friendly initiative of former police commissioner AB Venkateswara Rao, has become famous for street food in no time. The food court, which is centrally located in the city, is attracting foodies in droves.

Push cart vendors selling biryani and other non-vegetarian dishes are doing a roaring business. Piping hot biryani is being served till 2 am at the `bandis’. Women and children are also visiting the food court in good numbers. Quality, quantity, taste and price are the key factors for their success.

The non-vegetarian dishes are reasonably priced compared to restaurants as the vendors do not incur huge overhead costs. Though fast food and snacks are also available, the demand for biryani and non-vegetarian dishes is high. Chicken biryani and other dishes made of chicken are the most sought after ones at the bandis.

Mutton, fish, prawn and other biryani varieties are also on the menu at the food court with the prices ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 300. A Mohan who runs Bezawada Biryani Point, said, “We are selling 200 plates of biryani a day on an average. Our day’s income is Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000.

After deduction of the cost of ingredients, fuel, labour and other expenses from the total income, we are earning a marginal profit for our living.’’ Techie B Jeevan said, “I was hesitant to eat biryani at the bandis initially.

I was immensely satisfied after eating the street food. Both the quality and quantity are good and its price is also most affordable. Now, I am visiting the food street every weekend.’’

By Ch Sowmya Sruthi