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The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is a city of ancient culinary customs, rich history, and energetic culture. Known as the 'City of Nawabs,' Lucknow boasts a legacy of exquisite food that is deeply rooted in the Mughal era. Lucknow's streets are well-known for their Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine, which presents a pleasing mix of flavours sure to tantalise your taste receptors.
Video Credit: YouTube | Pramod Bathija
Lucknow's street food is more than just a way to satisfy your hunger; it's a journey through the heart of the city. The sweet Kulfi Faluda and the juicy Tundey Kebabs are just two of the dishes that show how tradition, skill, and a love of food are tied together. Lucknow is a must-see for foodies because it has so much rich and varied street food. Every lane in Lucknow is full of new delicious foods.
Some Must-Try Street Foods In Lucknow
Kebabs
Kebabs have been ruling the streets of Lucknow for ages and are considered sacred to the city’s culinary heritage. These melt-in-your-mouth delicacies are a must-try for anyone visiting Lucknow. Whether it’s the famous Tundey Kebabs, known for their unique blend of spices, or the Galouti Kebabs with their finely minced meat, the kebabs in Lucknow are unparalleled in their richness and flavour. Veg Shami Kebabs offer a delightful option for vegetarians, ensuring everyone can indulge in this Nawabi treat. Best enjoyed with soft rumaali rotis, these kebabs are an essential part of the Lucknow food experience.
Basket Chaat
No list of street food in Lucknow is complete without the inclusion of chaat. Basket Chaat, a unique offering from the city, is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavours. Served in a crispy potato shell, this chaat is filled with mashed potatoes, tangy chutneys, crunchy vegetables, and a sprinkle of peas. Combining tastes and textures produces a snack with great flavour and filling power. Anyone wishing to taste Lucknow's finest street cuisine has to try this.
Malai Makkhan
Malai Makkhan is a seasonal specialty that is best enjoyed during the winter months. Beat unsalted butter till it has a light, airy texture to create this creamy, buttery treat. Topmed with khoya, it provides a really irresistible rich, melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Found outside Gole Darwaza, Chowk, Chappan Bhog, and Ram Arsey, Malai Makkhan is a must-try treat that adds a sweet note to the culinary journey through Lucknow.
Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is a staple of Indian street food, and in Lucknow, it takes on a special character. The chickpea curry, cooked with a blend of spices, is served alongside crispy, fluffy bhature. What sets the Lucknow version apart is the depth of flavour and the unique accompaniments, such as spiced onions and lassi, that elevate the dish. Found in every bylane of the city, Chole Bhature is a must-try for those seeking a hearty, satisfying meal.
Kulfi Faluda
To beat the summer heat, nothing works better than a serving of Kulfi Faluda. This traditional dessert is made from thickened milk, flavoured with nuts, and topped with faluda noodles and sweet syrups. It’s a refreshing treat that is loved by both locals and tourists alike. Prakash ki Kulfi in Aminabad is one of the best places in Lucknow to enjoy this cool, creamy dessert. Kulfi Faluda is a must-try for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while exploring the streets of Lucknow.
Veg Kebab Paratha
Lucknow’s street food scene is not just about non-vegetarian delights; vegetarians have their share of culinary treasures too. The Veg Kebab Paratha is a popular choice, offering a combination of soft rumali roti and crispy vegetarian kebabs. The flavours are rich and satisfying, making it a great option for breakfast or as a snack with tea. This dish is a must-try for vegetarians visiting Lucknow, offering a taste of the city’s Nawabi flavours in a meat-free form.
Kulcha Nihari
Kulcha Nihari is a dish that truly reflects the royal heritage of Lucknow’s cuisine. Nihari, a slow-cooked meat stew, is served with soft, flaky kulchas that are perfect for soaking up the rich, spicy gravy. This Mughlai delicacy is best enjoyed at Raheem’s in Akbari Gate, Chowk, where it has been perfected over 125 years. Open from early morning until late at night, Raheem’s is the go-to place for this authentic Lucknow street food. Kulcha Nihari is a must-try for those looking to experience the grandeur of Lucknow’s culinary traditions.
Exploring the street food of Lucknow is like taking a delicious journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage. From the famous Tundey Kebabs to the reviving Kulfi Faluda, every dish presents a different taste of the Nawabi cuisine that has moulded Lucknow's gastronomic scene. Whether you’re a fan of spicy snacks or sweet desserts, the streets of Lucknow have something to offer everyone. The flavours, aromas, and textures of Lucknow’s street food make it a must-visit destination for any food lover.
