City of Nawabs Shines Globally: Lucknow Joins UNESCO’s Creative Cities List for Gastronomy
Lucknow: The City of Nawabs has earned global recognition for its celebrated Awadhi flavours, as UNESCO has added Lucknow to its Creative Cities Network under the ‘Gastronomy’ category. The announcement was made at the 43rd session of UNESCO’s General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, placing Lucknow among 70 gastronomy cities worldwide and making it the second Indian city after Hyderabad to receive the honour.
The designation celebrates Lucknow’s rich and diverse culinary legacy — from the legendary galouti kebabs and kormas to aromatic biryani and traditional sweets — that have shaped its identity for centuries.
From mouth-watering Galouti Kabab to Awadhi Biryani, delectable Chaat & Golgappe, desserts like Makhan Malai & so much more – Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh is a haven for food, enriched in centuries-old traditions.
Lucknow is now recognised by @UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy pic.twitter.com/fXhU6kSeWd
— United Nations in India (@UNinIndia) October 31, 2025
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced a total of 58 new member cities in this year’s list, expanding the Creative Cities Network to 408 cities across more than 100 countries.
Welcoming the announcement, Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the tag would strengthen the state’s culinary tourism potential. “Lucknow’s food has always drawn visitors from across the world. This recognition will help us take our gastronomic heritage to new heights,” he said.
Experts believe the UNESCO title will boost culinary tourism, local entrepreneurship, and cultural branding, giving global exposure to small food businesses and traditional chefs.
The award reaffirms that in Lucknow, food isn’t just about taste—it’s an art form that reflects history, community, and creativity.
