Hyderabad’s iconic biryani chains under scanner: I-T raids 30 locations over suspected tax evasion

The Income Tax Investigation Wing in Hyderabad on Tuesday launched a major operation across three of the city’s best-known biryani chains after receiving information about suspected large-scale tax evasion.

The teams carried out searches around 30 locations connected to Pista House, Shah Ghouse and the Mehfil Group of Restaurants, including their offices, outlets and the homes of individuals linked to the businesses, TOI reported.

According to the report, the coordinated searches began early in the morning and covered multiple branches and administrative centres of all three brands.

Mehfil, which started in 2006, has grown rapidly over the years and now operates 15 outlets across Hyderabad. It also expanded overseas with a presence in the United Arab Emirates and continued opening new branches through 2025.

Pista House, one of Hyderabad’s most famous food brands, was also a key focus of the operation. Established in 1997 by Mohammad Abdul Mazeed, the chain has become an international name with 44 outlets in India, the USA, the UAE, Oman and Kuwait. Its headquarters in Shah Ali Banda oversees a network of stores across Hyderabad and Rangareddy district.

Officials said investigators are examining both physical and online sales, noting that Pista House records a massive jump in business during the Haleem season, when sales reportedly run into several crores. Over the years, the brand has even attracted high-profile visitors, including Bollywood actor Salman Khan.

Searches were simultaneously carried out at Shah Ghouse, which is popular in areas like Gachibowli and the Old City. Officials said the chain has a significant presence on food-delivery platforms, and transaction records from those platforms are also being reviewed.

Teams seized financial documents, digital records and branch-wise sales statements as part of the inquiry. Authorities said the material collected will now be examined in detail to determine the scale of any tax evasion. Further investigations are underway.