Lucknow's Food Scene Might Just Be India's Next UNESCO Gastronomic Gem

News18

13-06-2025

Last Updated:
Lucknow has been officially nominated to be included in UNESCO's Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a City of Gastronomy. Here's what it means.
Known as the City of Nawabs, Lucknow has been the undisputed king of mouth-watering Awadhi cuisine. From kebab and korma to flavourful biryani and delightful sweets, one can't ignore Lucknow's indulgent recipes and hearty flavours. Now, the city is gearing up to add a feather in its cap, as its rich culinary heritage has been nominated for the title of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the gastronomy category.
As per the Divisional Commissioner of Lucknow, Roshan Jacob, the Indian government has put forward the city's name for this renowned and prestigious tag, reported Hindustan Times.
'We have to provide some more data by the end of June, following which UNESCO authorities may visit to verify our claims. The state capital is famous for a wide range of Awadhi delicacies, and food buffs both from India and abroad have been talking about it for a long time now. The city's food scene is an endless treasure of delicious dishes that will tantalise your taste buds," he added.
Mumbai-based consultant Abha Narain Lambah played a key role in putting together a detailed dossier about Lucknow's gastronomic heritage. The entire effort is closely monitored by the Uttar Pradesh Department of Culture and Tourism.
If you thought the state capital was a non-veg haven and is only known for its Tunday and Kakori Kebab, let us tell you that the nomination highlights vegetarian offerings like Bajpai ki Puri and Durga Ke Khaste, among others. Not just this, Lucknow's famous sweets like motichur ke laddu, malai paan, jalebi and imarti are also in the much-loved dishes list.
Chaat And Street Foods: From pani ke batashe to basket chaat, Lucknow's street food scene is a delight for vegetarians and street food lovers alike.
Khasta, Kachauri, and Bajpai Ki Puri: For your evening and teatime munching, these crispy snacks are definitely a must-have.
Sweets: No trip to this city is complete without tasting the sweets. If you are visiting Lucknow, you have to try the delicious malai paan, jalebi, motichur ke laddu and imarti with rabri.
What Is The UNESCO Creative City Network?
Established back in 2004, UCCN celebrates cities that have shown exceptional creativity in arts, culture and, in this case, food. India already has Chennai and Hyderabad for gastronomy in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. If approved, Lucknow will soon join this elite list.
First Published:
June 13, 2025, 10:41 IST