Lucknow is the land of Nawabs, Adab and most importantly Kebabs, which attracts thousands of foodies just like me and you to relish the flavours of Awadhi cuisine. If you reside in the northern belt of India, you can go for a short weekend getaway to Lucknow to unleash the foodie within you.
I bring you a list of exclusive and delectable dishes that you can have in Lucknow. Consider these the best food in Lucknow. If you haven’t tried any of these Awadhi dishes, then trust me you are missing out a lot!
So head to the land of Nawabs and spoil yourself with delicious Awadhi dishes. Here is a list of food that you can try in Lucknow:
Awadhi Biryani
I have had all kinds of Biryani, but this is different. The flavour is so rich that one can eat it without salan. Finding Biryani in Lucknow is an easy task as there are a plethora of outlets across the city. However, there is one specific outlet that is close to my heart, which I would recommend is Mashi Biryani World. The taste is out of the world and the price very reasonable.
Where: Mashi Biryani World is located next to Nimbu Park, Machchhi Bhavan
Awadhi Butter Chicken
Awadhi spices have the power to turn any dish into gold. I never imagined Butter Chicken to taste so good as it did in Lucknow. Trust me it was way better than what we get in Delhi. Therefore, do not miss out on Butter Chicken on your visit to Lucknow. It will surely make your tummy happy.
Where: Falak Numa at Hotel Clarks
Rogan Josh
A signature Mughlai dish loved by the masses for its aromatic and delectable taste. Club it with Sheermal, and you will get the perfect combo of sweet and spicy. A must-have in the city.
Where: Dastarkhwan
Tunday Kebabs
Your trip to the city is incomplete without paying a visit to Tunday Kebabi. It is known for selling the best Tunday kebabs in town that will instantly melt your heart. Prepared with minced Buffalo meat. However, with its growing popularity, it is now available in Chicken and Mutton as well.
Where: Tunday Kebabi
Galouti Kebabs
Galouti Kebabs is another dish that originates from Lucknow. Invented in the kitchens of the Nawab of Awadh who was unable to consume hard meat because of ageing. The kebab contains hundreds of spices producing a unique blend of flavour, and the texture is such that it melts inside the mouth instantly, which is also the literal meaning of Galouti.
Where: Dastarkhwan
Kakori Kebabs
Kakori kebab is nothing but a tender version of Seekh kebab. Another famous delicacy of Lucknow that tastes even better when clubbed with Green Chutney and Roomali Roti.
Where: Dastarkhwan
Shahi Tukda
Shahi tukda is one of my favourites in dessert and quite popular in Lucknow. It is a type of bread pudding made with fried bread dipped in hot milk and cooked with spices including saffron and cardamom. Head to any local market to grab a bite of Shahi Tukda.
Where: Mashi Biryani World and Aminabad market
Makkhan Malai
Makkhan Malai is a winter dish available only between November and February. It is known as Daulat ki Chaat in Delhi is a very light dessert that has a rich taste and foamy texture. A must-have dessert if you are visiting the city during winter.
Where: Chowk Bazaar
Pani Batashe
Pani ke Batashe is Lucknow’s version of Gol Gappa, one of the most popular and favourite street food in India. Head to any market in town, and you will easily spot one or two hawkers selling Batashe. The crunch of puris and the tangy taste of water will make your mind boggle.
Where: Shukla Chaat House, Hazratganj
Tokri Chaat
Another famous street food of Lucknow is a perfect blend of all the chaat ingredients. Made with deep-fried shredded potatoes and served with Aloo Tikki, Papdi, Bhalle, Chickpeas and topped with Curd, Saunth and Green Chutney. A lip-smacking dish, available at every chaat corner in the city.
Where: Royal Cafe, Hazratganj