What are some must-eats in Lucknow?
Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, beckons food enthusiasts with its splendid array of culinary treasures. Let's embark on a gastronomic journey through some of the most iconic and mouthwatering delights this city has to offer:
🍢 Tunday Kababs: Look no further than the "Grandson of Tunday Kababi" for an authentic experience. While its franchisee and extension outlets impress, the original Tunday near Akbari Gate, Chowk, is the true gem. Delight in the succulent buff kababs, flaky parathas, and sweet sheermaal. Beware of the copycat "Lucknow wale kababi."
🍲 Lucknowi Biryani: Satisfy your biryani cravings at renowned spots like Idris, Lalla, and Raheem's in Chowk, Tunday and Wahid in Aminabad, and Dastarkhwaan and Naushijaan at Tulsi theatre complex. Each offers the delectable pakki biryani, with meat and rice cooked separately and given dum together. Don't miss Naushijaan, a standout for using oil as the cooking medium, unlike the rest.
🥘 Nihari-Kulcha: Start your day with a traditional breakfast treat at Raheem's or Mubeen's in Chowk. Relish the flavorful nihari-kulchas, a symphony of spices that will leave you craving more.
🍢 Pasanda Kabab: An absolute must-try among Awadhi cuisine items, equally revered as the galawati kabab. Head to Raheem's or Mubeen's for a delightful pasanda kabab experience.
🍖 Mutton Korma: Savor this heavenly dish at Tunday and other Awadhi restaurants, enjoying it with soft rumaali rotis for a true culinary delight.
🍗 Chicken Masala: Discover the essence of Awadhi preparation at Dastarkhwaan or Tunday, where the chicken masala shines with flavorful nuances.
🍗 Kaali Mirch Chicken: The delectable kaali mirch chicken at Alamgir et al. boasts a unique taste, thanks to butter, yogurt, and kasoori methi.
🍢 Kakori Kababs: Although rare nowadays, indulge in the galawati seekh kabab cousin, Kakori Kababs. Ishtiyaq Qureshi's "Chhote Nawab" at Hotel Sagar International was a memorable spot, although it's now closed.
☕ Band Makhkhan and Chai: Savor the traditional Lucknowi breakfast, accompanied by delightful items like dahi-jalebi and khasta-kachoris. Vajpeyi's poori has its admirers, but you may find other options equally delicious.
🍨 Makhkhan Malaai: During winters, the famous creamy makhkhan malaai shines at Chowk, particularly at the Gol Darwaza chauraha. Vendors eagerly await to offer this heavenly treat that thrives solely in Lucknowi winters.
🍴 Lucknowi Chaat: Revel in the deep-fried and crunchy goodness of Lucknowi chaat, generously topped with an assortment of condiments, creating an absolute delight for your taste buds.
🍮 Phirni (Lucknowi Kheer): Indulge in this luscious and almost paste-like dessert, epitomizing Lucknow's culinary heritage.
🍬 Lucknowi Boondi Laddoos: Don't miss the soft, brittle, and uniquely flavored boondi laddoos, especially those at Ritz, which boasts several branches across Lucknow.
🍧 Faaluda Kulfi: Complete your culinary journey with the delightful faaluda kulfi, available at renowned spots like Prakash Kulfi in Aminabad and Chanakya at Parivartan Chowk.
In Lucknow, every culinary adventure is a tale of rich traditions and unforgettable flavors. Let your taste buds guide you through this gastronomic paradise!"