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Lucknow, the heart of Awadhi cuisine and a city where food is just not served for sustenance but an experience which is packed with royal history and hearty flavours that will surely tickle your tastebuds, is back in the spotlight. As the city’s food scene is always brimming with indulgent kebabs, sweets and aromatic biryanis, the city of nawabs has yet again managed to break the headlines by being nominated for UNESCO’s Creative City of Gastronomy.
Also Read: Mallika Basu Finds London's Best Awadhi Biryani At This Restaurant Celebrating Lucknowi Heritage

What is the UNESCO Creative City Network?

UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN), established back in 2004, celebrates the cities that have shown exceptional creativity in culture, arts, design and this case, food. Lucknow’s deep-rooted food heritage and the kitchen culture are passed down from majestic courts and roadside street stalls. The nomination highlights not just the non-vegetarian offerings like tunday kebab, kakori kebab, but also a wide selection of vegetarian dishes like chaats, sweets, and more.
According to the Divisional Commissioner of Lucknow, Roshan Jacob, the Indian government has officially put forward the city’s name for this renowned and respected designation. The Uttar Pradesh Department of Culture and Tourism, which is working in collaboration with heritage expert Abha Narain Lambah, is currently compiling a collective dossier that showcases the city’s culinary tradition. The dossier is believed to be sent to UNESCO by the end of June, after which experts are expected to visit Lucknow to experience its vibrant food scene.

What sets Lucknow apart?

The ability to blend sophistication with street style treats. Whether you’re enjoying a luxurious Awadhi thali at a fine dining restaurant or biting into khasta kachori on a busy street, every dish and corner of Lucknow tells a story. From kitchen staples to iconic vegetarian food, the city presents a blend of dishes that is sure to please your palate.
And if you think that Lucknow is only about meat, then you need to think again. The city offers a variety of comforting vegetarian delights that are not only rich in taste but also offer diverse flavours. This move to nominate Lucknow reflects a larger effort by the government to showcase the traditional dishes on the global platform.
With the city being a nominee on the prestigious list of Gastronomic cities in the world, this move will not only enhance the footfall but also elevate the profile as well. The title of UCCN acclaimed city will serve as a tribute to the legacy and royal techniques involved in surviving through the times.

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