A Foodie’s First Guide to Lucknow: Where Kebabs Meet Culture
- City Lucknow
- September 16, 2025
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A Foodie’s First Guide to Lucknow: Where Kebabs Meet Culture
If Delhi is about history and Mumbai is about hustle, then Lucknow is about taste. The City of Nawabs doesn’t just serve food—it serves an experience plated with tehzeeb (etiquette), slow-cooked patience, and recipes guarded like family treasures.
So if you’re a first-time visitor to Lucknow, let’s take you on a delicious food trail that will make your taste buds fall in love with Awadhi cuisine. From legendary kebabs to royal biryanis, here are the must-visit food destinations—and how to reach them with ease.
1. Tunday Kababi – Aminabad
The crown jewel of Lucknow’s culinary map! Famous for its melt-in-the-mouth Galouti Kebabs, this century-old eatery is where history and taste shake hands.
What to try: Galouti Kebab with Roomali Roti, Mutton Biryani.
How to reach: Take an auto or cab (Ola/Uber) directly to Aminabad Market. Parking is tricky, so avoid driving yourself. From Hazratganj, it’s a 15–20 min ride.
2. Idris ki Biryani – Chowk
Not just biryani—a piece of poetry in a handi. Idris Biryani has fans across the globe for its perfectly spiced rice and tender mutton. Unlike commercial biryani joints, Idris is all about authenticity.
What to try: Mutton Biryani (half plate is never enough!).
How to reach: Autos and e-rickshaws are best for Chowk’s narrow lanes. From Charbagh Railway Station, it’s about 3 km (15 minutes).
3. Rahim ki Nihari – Chowk
Early risers get the treat! Rahim’s Nihari, simmered overnight, is a breakfast ritual in Lucknow. Dip crispy kulchas into the rich, spicy gravy and you’ll know why locals swear by it.
What to try: Nihari-Kulcha combo.
How to reach: It’s in the Chowk area, close to Idris. Best reached by cycle-rickshaw or auto to avoid traffic jams.
4. Royal Café – Hazratganj
Want a modern touch with Nawabi flavors? Head to Royal Café, the birthplace of the famous Basket Chaat. It’s a go-to for families, students, and even celebrities passing by the city.
What to try: Basket Chaat, Chhole Bhature.
How to reach: Easily accessible by car, auto, or cab in Hazratganj—the “Connaught Place” of Lucknow. Plenty of parking available nearby.
5. Prakash Kulfi – Aminabad
No food trail is complete without dessert! Prakash Kulfi has been serving creamy, saffron-infused kulfi with falooda for generations. It’s the perfect sweet ending after Tunday’s kebabs.
What to try: Kulfi-Falooda.
How to reach: Located in Aminabad—just a short walk from Tunday Kababi.
6. Chowk ki Mithaiyan
If you love Indian sweets, Chowk is heaven. From Makhan Malai (available only in winters) to malai gilori, the area is dotted with sweet shops that continue centuries-old traditions.
What to try: Makhan Malai, Malai Paan, Rabri.
How to reach: Hop on an e-rickshaw around Chowk to explore multiple shops without worrying about parking.
Getting Around Lucknow (Foodie Edition)
- For short distances: Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are best. Cheap and quick.
- For comfort: Ola and Uber work well across the city.
- For adventure: Cycle-rickshaws let you enjoy the old-city charm while navigating narrow lanes.
- Pro Tip: Avoid taking your own car to Chowk or Aminabad—traffic + parking will ruin your appetite!
