Lucknow is not just a city; it is a feeling. Famous for its tehzeeb, slow lifestyle, and royal culture, the city is also known for its mouth-watering food. From soft kebabs that melt in your mouth to sweet desserts from across the world, restaurants in Lucknow offer something for every food lover.
If you are searching for the best restaurants in Lucknow, or planning to explore famous food places including restaurants in Lucknow Gomti Nagar, this simple and detailed guide is for you. The language is easy, the places are trusted, and the food is unforgettable.
Here is a carefully selected list of the top 10 restaurants in that every visitor and local should try at least once.
1. Tunday Kababi (Chowk) – The Soul of Lucknow
Location: Chowk, Old Lucknow
When people talk about Lucknow food, Tunday Kababi is always the first name. This place is world-famous for its Galauti kebabs, which are so soft that they melt in your mouth.
Why Tunday Kababi Is Special
- Started more than 100 years ago
- Famous story of the one-armed chef
- Secret meat paste made with over 100 spices
- Simple menu: kebabs and paratha
The original Chowk outlet is the real gem. Even though many branches exist now, locals believe that the taste of Chowk is unmatched.
Must Try: Galauti Kebab, Ulte Tawa Ka Paratha
If you want to understand the real food culture of Lucknow, this is the first stop.
2. Idrees Biryani – Rice Over Spice
Location: Chowk
Unlike spicy biryanis found in other cities, Idrees Biryani focuses on the flavor of rice. This Awadhi biryani is cooked slowly in large pots called deghs, over open fire (chulha).
What Makes Idrees Special
- Long-grain rice with rich aroma
- Mild spices, no heavy masala
- Meat supports the rice, not the other way around
- Slow cooking for hours
People stand in long queues just to get their parcel. That itself shows the love locals have for this place.
Must Try: Mutton Biryani
This is one of the most loved traditional restaurants in Lucknow.
3. Sakhawat – Lucknow’s Best Kept Secret
Location: Aminabad / Old Lucknow
Sakhawat is a small, less-known restaurant, but the taste here is outstanding. It is especially famous for Shami kebabs made with coarsely ground mutton.
Why Food Lovers Love Sakhawat
- Soft yet textured kebabs
- Perfect balance of spices
- Delicious bhuna gosht with caramelized onions
- Mughlai parantha with kalaunji seeds
This place feels like a hidden treasure for true food lovers.
Must Try: Shami Kebab, Bhuna Gosht
If you enjoy discovering underrated food spots, Sakhawat is for you.
4. Raheem’s Kulcha Nihari – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Location: Chowk
Raheem’s is famous for its Nihari, a thick, spicy curry made with slow-cooked mutton that falls off the bone.
What Makes This Place Unique
- Rich and heavy Nihari gravy
- Long slow cooking for deep flavor
- Paired with buttery, flaky Lucknowi kulcha
- Perfect for breakfast or brunch
The soft meat and crispy-buttery kulcha make a perfect combination.
Must Try: Mutton Nihari with Kulcha
This is one of the most iconic old-city restaurants in Lucknow.
5. Royal Cafe – Home of the Famous Basket Chaat
Location: Hazratganj
Royal Cafe is a clean, family-friendly place famous across India for its Basket Chaat. Celebrities, politicians, and tourists all visit this place.
Why Basket Chaat Is So Popular
- Crispy fried basket
- Filled with aloo tikki, bhalla, papdi
- Sweet curd, spicy chutney, masala
- Topped with pomegranate seeds
Every bite gives sweet, spicy, crunchy, and soft flavors together.
Must Try: Basket Chaat
This is among the most popular best restaurants in Lucknow for street food lovers.
6. Sharma Chai – Lucknow’s Evening Tradition
Location: Lalbagh & other branches
Sharma Chai is not just a tea shop; it is part of Lucknow’s daily life. People come here for shaam ki chai after work.
What Makes Sharma Chai Special
- Strong, kadak tea
- Sweet bun masks with thick white butter
- Round, spicy samosas
- Always crowded with locals
Dipping the buttered bun into hot tea is a simple joy that never gets old.
Must Try: Chai, Bun Maska, Samosa
This place shows the simple beauty of Lucknow culture.
7. Oudhyana – Dine Like the Nawabs
Location: Taj Mahal Hotel, Lucknow
If you want luxury and royal taste, Oudhyana is the perfect place. This fine-dining restaurant brings the Nawabi kitchen to life.
Why Oudhyana Is Special
- Slow-cooked Awadhi dishes
- Use of saffron and gentle spices
- Royal presentation
- Calm and elegant setting
The food is rich but not spicy, just like it was prepared for Nawabs.
Must Try: Dum Pukht dishes, Kebabs
This is one of the finest luxury restaurants in Lucknow.
8. Falaknuma – A View with a Tune
Location: Gomti Nagar
Falaknuma offers more than food. It offers an experience. Located near the Gomti River, this restaurant combines great food, live ghazals, and a peaceful view.
Why People Love Falaknuma
- River view seating
- Soft live music
- Indian and Asian dishes
- Calm and romantic atmosphere
It is perfect for dinner dates or special occasions.
Must Try: Malai Kebab
Among the best restaurants in Lucknow Gomti Nagar, Falaknuma stands out.
9. Qmin (Gomti Nagar) – The New Wave of Dining
Location: Gomti Nagar
Qmin is a modern café made for young people and global tastes. It shows how Lucknow’s food scene is changing with time.
What Makes Qmin Popular
- Modern, lively atmosphere
- Global menu
- Brunch options
- Good for friends and casual meetings
From burgers to comfort food, Qmin offers relaxed dining with good vibes.
Must Try: Café specials and brunch items
This place represents modern restaurants in Lucknow Gomti Nagar.
10. Danbro by Mr Brown – Beyond Kebabs
Location: Gomti Nagar
Danbro is a premium bakery and café that brings international desserts to Lucknow. It is especially famous for its Baklava.
Why Danbro Is Unique
- High-quality bakery items
- Authentic Mediterranean sweets
- Rich, layered baklava
- Premium café experience
The taste is so good that people compare it with famous international bakeries.
Must Try: Baklava, Desserts
This shows how Lucknow food is growing beyond traditional dishes.
Conclusion
From age-old kebab shops in Chowk to modern cafés in Gomti Nagar, restaurants in Lucknow offer an amazing food journey. Whether you want royal flavors, street food, tea culture, or global desserts, this city has it all.
If you are searching for the top 10 restaurants in Lucknow or the best restaurants , this list is a perfect start. Each place has its own story, taste, and charm.
