Savouring Awadhi Cuisine: Best Places To Have Kebabs In Lucknow

Lucknow, the culinary capital of Uttar Pradesh, is well known all over the country for its mouth-watering foods. From the succulent and aromatic Awadhi biryani to the juicy and scrumptious kebabs, the city reigns supreme regarding these iconic dishes. In fact, the kebabs of this historic city are so famous that people often refer to the city as the city of nawabs and kebabs. In this culinary journey, we are going to take you on a virtual tour through some of the must-visit places that offer the most delicious kababs in Lucknow.

Situated in the Aminabad market of old Lucknow, Tunday Kababi stands as a storied culinary gem renowned nationwide for its delectable kababs. Founded in 1905 by chef Haji Murad Ali, credited with their creation, these kababs possess an unparalleled, tantalisingly tender quality that earned them the moniker "Galouti" (meaning melt-in-mouth). Pairing these succulent kababs with Mughlai Paratha or the indigenous Lucknowi Sheermal—a unique flatbread from the region—recreates a heavenly culinary experience.

Famous For: Galouti Kababs

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

Timings: 11 am to 12:15 am

A sought-after dining establishment with multiple outlets throughout the city, this restaurant is a prime destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Awadhi cuisine. While renowned for its Boti and Galouti kababs, what sets Dastarkhwan apart is the consistently exceptional quality of all its dishes. This makes it an ideal spot for sampling an array of culinary delights associated with Lucknowi or Awadhi cuisine.

Famous For: Galouti and Boti Kababs

Address: Ground Floor & Lower Ground Floor, Building, Near Quinton Road, Ward Jagdish Chandra Bose, Lalbagh

Timings: 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm

Mubeen's, an iconic eatery in the bustling heart of Lucknow's Chowk area, holds a distinguished reputation for serving the most exquisite Pasanda kababs in the city. Diverging from the usual kabab fare, the Pasanda is meticulously slow-cooked, allowing seasoned mutton pieces to simmer in a thick, rich gravy. These delectably juicy kababs, bursting with flavours, create a harmonious gastronomic symphony when savoured alongside perfectly paired kulchas, offering a delightful burst of taste sensations with every single bite.

Famous For: Pasanda Kabab

Address: Opposite Ek Minara Masjid, Akbari Gate, 334/37, Hakim Abdul Aziz Rd, Chowk

Timings: 11 am to 11 pm

Situated near the revered Awadh Gymkhana Club, Sakhawat restaurant stands as a celebrated destination renowned for its unparalleled Shami Kababs in Lucknow. Crafted from finely ground meat, lentils—typically chana dal—and an exquisite blend of herbs and spices, these rounded kababs boast a delightful contrast of a crispy exterior encasing a soft, juicy interior. While historical accounts vary, the dish is often attributed to a Syrian chef's creation in Nawab's esteemed royal kitchens. For the ultimate dining experience, these Shami Kababs are ideally accompanied by "ulte tawe ke" Mughlai paratha served on the side.

Famous For: Shami Kabab

Address: Near Oudh Gymkhana Club, Qaisar Bagh

Timings: 2 pm to 11 pm

Nestled near the renowned non-vegetarian hub, Tulsi Theatre, this esteemed restaurant boasts a rich legacy of serving Lucknow's iconic kababs - the Kakori, Galouti, Ghutwa, Pasanda, and Shami. Regardless of the kabab choice, each offering epitomises culinary excellence. However, if a selection must be made among these delectable options, the standout recommendation undoubtedly falls upon the Ghutwa or Majlisi kabab. Crafted from meticulously minced meat marinated in aromatic spices and herbs, this kabab is simmered to perfection in a luscious, flavorful gravy, presenting a truly indulgent dining experience.

Famous For: Kakori and Ghutwa Kabab

Address: Tulsi Theatre Building, Lucknow

Timings: 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm