Food guide
Osmania Biscuits: The Story of Hyderabad Favourite Tea Biscuit
Salty, sweet, crumbly and made to be dipped in Irani chai.
By Imran Qureshi ยท Updated 12 October 2025
Where the name comes from
The biscuit is named after Mir Osman Ali Khan, the last Nizam of Hyderabad. Popular stories say it was first baked for the Nizam, who wanted something light with his tea. The details are hard to check, but the name stuck.
What it tastes like
A good Osmania biscuit is buttery, slightly salty and slightly sweet, with a hint of cardamom in some versions. It should snap and then crumble.
Buying them fresh
Most bakeries in the Old City and Secunderabad bake them daily. Buy in the morning and keep them in an airtight tin.
Pair them with tea from one of our Irani cafes.
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