Lucknow’s Food Scene: More Than Just Kebabs and Biryani
Lucknow is known for its royal charm, beautiful architecture, and of course—its legendary food. The city’s culinary history is rich, thanks to its deep roots in Awadhi culture. From melt-in-the-mouth kebabs to fragrant biryanis, Lucknow’s traditional dishes have won hearts across the country.
But beyond its age-old recipes, the food scene in Lucknow is evolving. Today, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants offering global cuisine, fusion dishes, stylish interiors, and great service. Whether you’re craving a hearty Mughlai feast, a quick plate of chaat, or a fancy continental meal, Lucknow has something for every taste.
Let’s explore some of the best restaurants in Lucknow that serve not just food, but a complete experience.
1. Oudhyana – Royal Dining at Its Best
Located in the luxurious Taj Mahal Hotel in Gomti Nagar, Oudhyana is the perfect place to enjoy Awadhi cuisine in its purest form. The ambiance here is elegant, with traditional décor that makes you feel like royalty. The staff is courteous and well-informed, helping you navigate the rich menu.
Their signature dish, Galouti Kebab, is a must-try. Soft, flavorful, and aromatic, it practically melts in your mouth. Pair it with Ulta Tawa Paratha and you’ll understand why this dish is so loved. The Murgh Awadhi Korma and Dum Biryani also stand out for their authentic taste and slow-cooked richness.
Oudhyana isn’t just about food. It’s about the experience of dining like a Nawab. If you’re visiting Lucknow for the first time or celebrating something special, this restaurant should be on top of your list.
2. Tunday Kababi – The Heartbeat of Lucknow’s Street Food
No list of the best restaurants in Lucknow is complete without Tunday Kababi. This legendary spot, located in Aminabad and now with outlets in places like Alambagh and Chowk, has been serving its iconic kebabs for over a century.
The Galouti Kebabs here are world-famous for a reason. They’re made using a secret mix of over 100 spices and cooked on a griddle until soft and juicy. Served with warm parathas, they make for the perfect quick bite. The mutton biryani and sheermal (a type of sweet bread) are also crowd favourites.
Tunday Kababi isn’t fancy, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s the kind of place where people of all kinds gather—locals, tourists, students, and foodies. It’s simple, fast, and unforgettable. If you want to taste the true flavour of Lucknow, this is where you begin.
3. The Urban Terrace – Food with a View
Located at the top of Hotel Lineage in Gomti Nagar, The Urban Terrace is a rooftop restaurant that blends good food with a great vibe. As the sun sets over the city, this place lights up with fairy lights, music, and the laughter of friends and families enjoying their meals.
The menu here is multi-cuisine, offering Indian, Chinese, Italian, and more. Their wood-fired pizzas are thin, crispy, and full of flavour. The butter chicken and dal makhani are rich and comforting, perfect with a basket of assorted breads. If you’re in the mood for starters, the chilli chicken and paneer tikka are worth trying.
What makes The Urban Terrace special is the overall experience—breezy evenings, warm service, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s ideal for date nights, celebrations, or just a relaxed dinner with a view of the city lights.
4. Spice Caves – A Hidden Gem for Food Lovers
Spice Caves in Aliganj is one of those places you’ll hear about from a friend who knows the city well. Designed like a cave, with dim lighting and stone-textured walls, it offers a cosy, cave-like atmosphere that feels unique and fun.
Their menu is wide-ranging, with strong North Indian and Chinese sections. The Murg Musallam is a star dish here—whole chicken cooked in rich gravy, served with jeera rice or naan. Vegetarians will enjoy the Veg Diwani Handi, packed with seasonal vegetables and bold spices. The Chinese section has great options like hakka noodles, hot garlic chicken, and manchow soup.
Spice Caves is a great pick if you’re looking for a new experience that’s a little offbeat but big on flavour. It’s also quite pocket-friendly for the quantity and quality of food they offer.
5. Vintage Machine – Retro Café Meets Global Dining
If you’re looking for a mix of great food, funky vibes, and Instagram-worthy interiors, Vintage Machine in Hazratganj is the place. Designed with a retro-industrial theme, it has old-school telephones, typewriters, and music playing from the ’80s and ’90s in the background.
The food here is international in feel. From cheesy lasagnas and spaghetti aglio e olio to grilled chicken steaks and veggie burgers, the options are wide and appealing. Their milkshakes are creamy and served in tall glasses—perfect for a sweet craving. For coffee lovers, their cappuccinos and cold brews are made fresh and strong.
Vintage Machine is loved by college students, young couples, and anyone who enjoys a relaxed café vibe with big plates of delicious food. It’s not just about eating, but spending time in a space that feels alive and nostalgic.
Final Bite: Lucknow’s Best Restaurants Serve More Than Just Food
Lucknow may be famous for its kebabs and kormas, but its restaurant scene has something for everyone—from the old soul who loves traditional recipes to the curious diner who wants to explore global flavours. Whether it’s the royal charm of Oudhyana or the laid-back cheer of Vintage Machine, every restaurant adds something unique to the city’s food story.
So, the next time you’re in Lucknow, don’t just look at monuments and markets. Explore its kitchens, its rooftop cafés, its century-old shops, and its quiet corners where food speaks louder than words. Because in Lucknow, every meal is a memory waiting to happen.
