Full Breakdown
Lucknow: A Culinary Gem Recognized by UNESCO
12/20/2025, 6:51:37 AM
UNESCO Recognition and Its Significance
Last month, the northern Indian city of Lucknow was designated as a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO, becoming only the second Indian city to receive this honor after Hyderabad in 2019. This recognition highlights Lucknow's rich culinary traditions and vibrant food ecosystem, as noted by Tim Curtis, director of UNESCO’s Regional Office for South Asia. He emphasized that this accolade not only honors the city’s cultural legacy but also opens avenues for international collaboration.
The Culinary Heritage of Lucknow
Known as the City of Nawabs, Lucknow's culinary history is deeply influenced by its 18th and 19th-century Muslim rulers. The royal kitchens were centers of culinary innovation, merging Persian and local Indian styles to create the renowned Awadhi cuisine. Among the city's culinary treasures are the mutton galouti kebabs, originally crafted for an aging nawab who could no longer chew. These kebabs are made with finely minced meat, spices, and papaya, showcasing the city's culinary ingenuity.
Another hallmark of Lucknow's cuisine is the Dum Pukht cooking technique, which involves slow-cooking food in sealed pots to enhance flavors. This method gained popularity during the reign of Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah, who initiated a work-for-food program during a famine, leading to the creation of one-pot meals that are still cherished today.
Diverse Culinary Offerings
While kebabs and biryani are the stars of Lucknow’s food scene, the city also boasts a plethora of vegetarian delights. The local Baniya community contributes to this diversity with seasonal vegetarian dishes, Indian sweets, and popular street foods like chaat. Street vendors and small eateries are scattered throughout the city, serving local favorites.
One notable establishment is Sharmaji Tea Stall, operational since 1949, where locals gather for milky masala chai served in clay glasses alongside soft buns with butter. Another beloved spot, Netram, has been serving hot kachoris and jalebis for nearly 150 years, with its sixth-generation owners dedicated to preserving traditional recipes.
Criticism and Local Sentiment
Despite the celebration of this recognition, some locals, including celebrity chef Ranveer Brar, expressed that the accolade was long overdue. Many residents feel that Lucknow's culinary identity has always been integral to its cultural fabric and should have been acknowledged sooner.
Conclusion
Lucknow's designation as a Creative City of Gastronomy not only celebrates its culinary heritage but also positions the city for future growth and international partnerships. As it joins a global network of cities committed to promoting creativity and sustainable urban development, the spotlight on Lucknow's food culture is expected to shine brighter than ever.
