Lucknow was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy at their 43rd conference in Uzbekistan. This global honour recognises the city's centuries-old Awadhi cuisine, rich food traditions, diverse cultural gourmet heritage. Rediff brings you 11 must-try Lucknowi eats.
Tundey Kebab
In Lucknow’s historic Chowk, Tundey Kebab at Aminabad reigns supreme. Its melt-in-the-mouth Galouti Kebabs, crafted from mutton mince with a secret blend of spices, embody Mughlai food finesse. Generations have savoured this edible symbol of Lucknow’s unmatched culinary artistry. Make sure to head to the original outlet.
Burma Bakery
Another Lucknow institution, their buttery biscuits, rusks, plum cakes have bewitched the public for decades. The bakery's nostalgic aroma has always drawn loyal patrons seeking classic baked delights that marry the British baking legacy with Lucknowi warmth.
Idrees Biryani
Hidden in a modest corner of Chowk, Idrees Biryani defines authentic Awadhi biryani -- fragrant rice layered over tender mutton, slow-cooked. Its flavours are soulful, unpretentious, with deep Lucknow roots.
Raheem Paya And Nalli Nihari
Also at Chowk, they serve up the city’s most yummy paya and nalli nihari. The slow-cooked stew, simmered overnight, delivers tender meat in a rich, velvety gravy -- it's a breakfast tradition that captures Lucknow’s rustic heart.
Pani Batashe Ravi Ke
The gent at Gol Darwaza Chowk, Hazratganj is a local legend -- crisp puris filled with spicy, tangy water and mashed potatoes. The perfect balance of heat and flavour makes this humble snack an unforgettable Lucknow street-food experience.
Prakash Ki Mashoor Kulfi
A very special kulfi from Aminabad is heritage on a stick. Thick, creamy, accented with saffron and pistachios, it’s paired with falooda. The indulgent treat that has delighted generations of Lucknowites and visitors alike.
Aroura Achaar
Established in 1944, these folks own Lucknow’s tangiest secrets -- handcrafted pickles bursting with spice and tradition. From green chilly to mango, each jar captures homemade authenticity, turning a simple meal into a tasty tribute to Awadhi zest.
Laddu Chanakya Ka Mattha
Chanakya’s mattha is Lucknow’s favourite buttermilk and quite different from what you might find elsewhere. Its name too is hatke. Cool. Spiced. Refreshing. Infused with roasted jeera, mint, kaala namak (black salt), it’s an ideal postprandial digestive.
Keval Chai
A beloved spot of the gracious city, conversations here are as richly brewed as the traditional kulhad chai. Its kadak, malai-packed cups bring warmth and energy to Lucknow’s mornings. Don’t miss making a bun-maska-Keval-chai start to your day.
Ritz Ladoos
Just as good as anything served in the asli Ritz in Vilayat, these sweet treasures of Lucknow are soft, perfectly round boondi ladoos that melt in your mouth and satisfy the tummy.
Mandu Ki Shikanji
This ain't ordinary lemonade. The Lucknowi creamy, saffron-tinged, milk-based cooler is to die for. Can you imagine a lemonade that blends khoya, cardamom and tangy notes?
Jagdish Malai Makhan
For 70 years Jagdish has been dishing out this delicate wispy whipped cream-like sweet in the early morning hours. He also sells lassi, special milks. But you need to put your money down on the Malai Makhan.