`Muskuraiye, aap Lucknow mein hai': Here is a glimpse into world world-famous cuisine of city of Nawabs

Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, has earned the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status, celebrating its centuries-old Awadhi cuisine and vibrant food culture. Foodies are delighted at the recognition of Lucknow’s vibrant culinary heritage.

UNESCO declared Lucknow a “Creative City of Gastronomy” at the 43rd session of its General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The designation places Lucknow among 70 gastronomy cities worldwide and makes it the second Indian city to win the title after Hyderabad, which was added to the list in 2018.

Uttar Pradesh’s Directorate of Tourism submitted Lucknow’s nomination to the Ministry of Culture on January 31, 2025, and the Government of India selected the city as the country’s official entry on March 3, 2025. Officials said the UNESCO announcement on October 31 formally confirms the city’s entry into the Creative Cities Network. This is the second Indian city that has made it to UNESCO's list after Hyderabad.

Here are some of the must-try dishes in the City of Nawabs.

Galouti Kebab

These are soft, spiced, and aromatic kebabs that were created for a toothless Nawab. They are best enjoyed with or sheermal.

Tunday Kababi

It is a legendary Lucknow delicacy. These melt-in-the-mouth kebabs are made from finely minced meat and a secret blend of over 100 spices, a must-have for any food lover.

Awadhi Biryani

Fragrant rice layered with tender meat and subtle spices, Lucknow’s biryani is known for its delicate aroma and balance of flavors, less fiery, more regal. Dastar Khwan Restaurant in Lucknow serves the best Lucknowi Biryani and Kebabs.

Nihari

It is a slow-cooked mutton stew traditionally eaten at dawn. Nihari is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, the true essence of Lucknow’s Mughlai legacy. To be eaten with kulcha or Sheermal. Gemini International Hotel serves the most delicious Nihari for breakfast.

Sheermal

This is a saffron-flavored, slightly sweet flatbread brought by the Mughals.

Vegetarian Cuisine

Though some of the most famous Lucknowi dishes are meat-based, vegetarians have much to look forward to. Famous vegetarian dishes of Lucknow include basket chaat, chole bhature, dahibada, khasta kachori, Baghare Baingan, Arbi ka Salan, and sweet treats like Rabdi Lassi, Malai Makhan, and Kulfi Falooda. Lucknow's vegetarian cuisine offers street food, snacks, and rich, aromatic Awadhi staples served in restaurants.

Water Chestnuts with Chutney

In season, water chestnut lovers can find boiled water chestnuts with tangy chutneys sold by hawkers on the street.

Kaju Curry

A flavourful vegetarian dish made with cashew nuts, mawa, poppy seeds, and milk.

Popular Chaat and Raj Kachori

These are the street food items that are a must-try in the city's old markets like Chowk.

Tokri or Basket Chaat

It is a street-food marvel, which combines crispy fried potato baskets filled with tangy chutneys, yogurt, and spices. The crowds at Royal Café at Hazratgunj are a testament to just how popular this dish is in Lucknow, both with tourists as well as locals.

Chole Bhature

Fiery and satisfying, a classic combination of spicy chickpeas and fried bread.

Dahi Bada

Soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, often garnished with spices.

Khasta Kachori

Flaky, deep-fried pastries served with spicy potato curry.

Baghare Baingan

Baby eggplants simmered in a rich, nutty, and tangy gravy.

Arbi ka Salan

A spicy curry made with colocasia or taro root.

Vegetarian Kebabs

Spiced vegetable or jackfruit kebabs are prepared to mimic the texture of meat.

Sweets and Desserts

Lucknow serves the most delicious and unique sweets and desserts.

Zarda Pulao

A sweet rice dish scented with saffron, often prepared with dried fruits and nuts.

Malai Makhan

It is a winter specialty and refers to an airy, creamy dessert made from milk froth and saffron. It is light as a cloud and melts in your mouth.

Malai Ki Gilori

A very unique sweet made with malai/cream and paan/betel leaf.

Kulfi Falooda

A chilled dessert made with kulfi, vermicelli noodles, and rose syrup. It is rich, nutty, and perfectly chilled.