As of November 2025, Lucknow has officially been designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. This recognition highlights the city's rich Awadhi culinary tradition, which is known for its intricate use of spices, slow-cooking techniques, and refined flavors. Lucknow joins Hyderabad as the second Indian city to receive this honor. 

Signature Awadhi cuisine

• Galouti Kebab: A famous melt-in-your-mouth kebab believed to have been created for a Nawab who had lost his teeth but not his love for flavorful meat. The kebabs are made from finely minced meat and a complex blend of spices.
• Lucknowi Biryani: A distinct variety of biryani known for its delicate aroma and subtle flavors. Unlike other regional biryanis, the Lucknowi version uses the dum pukht or slow-cooking technique, which allows the meat and rice to cook in their own juices.
• Nihari and Kulcha: A slow-cooked meat stew often enjoyed as a breakfast dish, traditionally paired with a soft, leavened bread called kulcha.
• Sheermal: A saffron-flavored, slightly sweet flatbread that is often served with kebabs and rich curries.
• Makhan Malai: A creamy, frothy winter dessert made by churning milk and cream until it becomes light and airy, then flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. 

Notable food destinations
Fine dining

• The Mughal's Dastarkhwan: A popular, well-regarded restaurant that serves authentic Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine in a family-friendly setting. It is particularly known for its Galawati and Tunday kebabs.
• The Robot Restaurant Yellow House: Offers a fusion of North Indian and Chinese cuisines with a unique dining experience featuring robot waiters.
• Purple Basil: A warm rooftop restaurant with Indian and Asian cuisine, and bar service, with a reputation for good food quality and generous portions.
• Royal Sky: A casual rooftop restaurant and bar in Hazratganj known for its ambiance, international menu, and flavorful dishes. 

 
Street food

• Tunday Kababi, Aminabad: An iconic eatery, considered a must-visit, especially for its renowned Galouti kebabs. It captures the essence of Lucknowi cuisine in a traditional, bustling setting.
• Idris Biryani: Located in the Chowk area, this is the place to go for an authentic Lucknowi Biryani experience.
• Ram Asrey: A legendary sweet shop that has been serving traditional desserts and sweets, including Makhan Malai, for generations.
• Dastarkhwan: Another must-visit for traditional Nihari and Kulcha, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy authentic Awadhi dishes. 

Food festivals

• Uttar Pradesh Food Festival: A food festival at the Hilton Garden Inn showcasing an extensive range of cuisines from Uttar Pradesh.
• La Flea Affair Fest: A multi-day festival in Gomti Nagar featuring food, fashion, and entertainment.
• Bengali Food Festival: Hosted by the Taj Mahal Lucknow at Sahib Cafe & Oudhyana, this event celebrates traditional Bengali cuisine. 

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