From the grandeur of Nawabi kitchens to the lively chaos of Aminabad’s lanes, Lucknow’s culinary legacy has always been more than food—it’s poetry on a plate. Now, that legacy has found its rightful place on the world map. At the 43rd session of UNESCO’s General Conference in Samarkand, Lucknow was formally declared a Creative City of Gastronomy, joining the prestigious UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). It becomes only the second Indian city after Hyderabad to earn this title.
The recognition celebrates not just dishes but an entire way of life built around tehzeeb (grace), nazakat (delicacy), and an unspoken reverence for good food. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network now spans 408 cities across more than 100 countries, all united by one idea—culture and creativity can drive sustainable urban development. Lucknow’s entry into this circle honours centuries of culinary refinement born from Mughlai grandeur, Persian subtlety, and local artistry.
For locals, this is not just an award—it’s a validation of their everyday rhythm. From the legendary Tunday Kababi’s melt-in-your-mouth galawati kebab (crafted for a toothless Nawab) to the aromatic Awadhi biryani that has travelled the world, every bite carries a story of patience and precision. Among the winter delights are Makhan Malai, which is so light on the tongue, Kesar Phirni, which is rich and fragrant, and sheermal, a soft saffron bread that was once reserved for kings.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the announcement, calling Lucknow “synonymous with a vibrant culture, at the core of which is a great culinary tradition.” He invited the world to experience the city’s unique flavour—both literally and culturally.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh echoed this pride, saying the recognition will boost culinary tourism and inspire food-based entrepreneurship. “Uttar Pradesh has immense potential to lead this sector,” he said, noting that the honour strengthens India’s presence on the global cultural map.
The numbers back it up. In 2024, Lucknow welcomed over 82 lakh tourists, and by mid-2025, that figure had already crossed 70 lakh. Clearly, food remains at the core of Lucknow’s tourism narrative.
Industry experts say Lucknow’s culinary magic lies in its subtlety. True refinement, they note, isn’t about lavish ingredients or overpowering spice—it’s about restraint. Just enough ghee, just enough heat, just enough time. Every dish is a quiet lesson in balance, patience, and grace. Lucknow’s food doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it shapes how people think about flavour, memory, and respect for tradition.
UNESCO’s recognition, he added, doesn’t make Lucknow’s food great—it simply tells the world what Lucknow has quietly known for centuries.
