Lucknow, a city known for its rich history and culture of Nawabs, is also famous for its delicious street food and delicacies. The Mughal rulers who played a significant role in shaping Lucknow's architecture were also known for their love of food and helped create famous dishes like galouti Kebab and biryani. If you plan to explore this city, don't forget to dedicate some time to indulge in its diverse and exquisite culinary offerings. The city's kebab range, which has been a hallmark of Lucknow's cuisine for centuries, is a must-try. The royal cooks' tireless efforts have given Lucknow's kebabs a heavenly taste that is unmatched. With the support of royal patronage, kebabs in Lucknow have become a symbol of innovation and appreciation. To help you get started, here's a list of the best kebabs you can try in Lucknow.

　　Tunday Kababi

　　The late Haji Murad Ali won a competition held by the aging Nawab of Awadh, who was looking for the softest kebabs as he couldn't chew hard foods. Ali named his winning kebab "Tunday Ke Kabab" after people like him and were referred to as Tunday. He opened his shop in 1905, and today, it remains an iconic spot that has served generations of food lovers with scrumptious mutton kebabs. The shop has only two branches in Lucknow, located at Akbari Gate and Aminabad.

　　Address: 168/6, Old Nazirabad Rd, Mohan Market, Khayali Ganj, Aminabad, Lucknow

　　Dastarkhwan

　　Dastarkhwan is a popular destination for food lovers, particularly known for its Shammi Kebabs. The restaurant has multiple branches in Lucknow due to its wide popularity and appreciation among kebab enthusiasts.

　　Address: 3 Quinton Road, Near Nishat Hospital, Lalbagh, Lucknow

　　Naushijaan

　　Naushijaan is a popular spot for young people and students, known for its delicious kebabs and biryanis. Located near Tulsi Theatre in Hazratganj, the aroma of their signature kakori kebabs and unique Awadhi majlis kebab draws in a crowd. The 'majlis kebab' was originally created to serve large groups and is served on earthen platters.

　　Address: Behind Tulsi Theater, Hazratganj, Lucknow

　　Mubeen's

　　Mubeen Dining Hotel was founded in Lucknow by Mohd Mubeen and his son, Mohd Rizwan Mubeen. The restaurant's lavish atmosphere and exquisite cuisine may have originated in the 16th century Northern India, where a Mogul Emperor had a fondness for dining in unique settings. Be sure to try their famous Sheermal with mutton nihari and the delicious kebabs that their loyal customers highly recommend.

　　Address: Opposite Ek Minara Masjid, Akbari Gate, Chowk, Lucknow

　　Tips

　　It might be a great idea to sign up for a locally curated food tour to make sense of all the options available. Anubhuti Krishna, a food writer born in Lucknow is tracing the heritage of culinary action in the city's nooks and crannies. She does a monthly two-day tour, dates drop on @lucknowwithanubhuti on Instagram.

　　One can also plan to attend the Mahindra Sanatkada Lucknow Festival (MSLF 2025) from January 31st till 4th Feb 2025. As the festival enters its 16th edition, the vibrant tapestries of Yahiyaganj, the bustling markets of Chowk, and the timeless twists and turns of Chaupatiyan holds a fresh story in every gali (lane), every chabutra (platform), and every pheriwaala (peddler).