Lucknow Crowned UNESCO City of Gastronomy!

Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, has added yet another jewel to its crown — it has officially been named a UNESCO “City of Gastronomy”, joining an elite global network of cities celebrated for their rich culinary traditions and creativity.

This recognition celebrates Lucknow’s timeless Awadhi cuisine, known for its royal finesse, aromatic spices, and melt-in-the-mouth flavours. From the Galouti and Kakori Kebabs that trace their origins to royal kitchens, to the biryani, korma, sheermal, and nihari that have delighted generations, Lucknow’s food reflects its cultural depth and Nawabi sophistication.

The recognition places Lucknow alongside global culinary destinations such as Chengdu, Parma, and Bangkok — celebrating not just its food, but the cultural stories, craftsmanship, and communities that keep these dishes alive.

Local chefs, heritage food stalls, and culinary institutes are expected to benefit from the spotlight, with more initiatives now likely to promote food tourism and culinary preservation in the city.

From the elegant kebabs of Tunday to the bustling lanes of Chowk and Aminabad, Lucknow’s food is a living story of its history — a blend of Mughlai sophistication and Indian soul. Now, with the UNESCO title, that story has found a global stage.

So the next time you savour a bite of Lucknow’s signature kebab or a spoonful of fragrant biryani, know that you’re tasting a world treasure — one that officially puts Lucknow on the global culinary map.